After my decisive victory over the tyrant Gaspar, I stepped out of the royal palace, resolute in my decision to address the people of Valoria. Using a magical amplifier, I raised my voice to ensure it would echo across the entire city.
“People of Valoria, listen to me!” I announced, my voice clear and commanding. “The reign of King Gaspar, your cruel and tyrannical ruler, has come to an end!”
A murmur of disbelief and cautious hope rippled through the crowd gathering before me.
“For too long, you have lived under oppression, deprived of your freedom and your right to prosper,” I continued, my determination evident in my tone. “But today, that changes! From this day forward, you are free! Free to speak your minds, to pursue your dreams, and to shape your own destiny!”
The faces of the people began to light up, hope gradually replacing the fear and despair that had once clouded their expressions.
“It is now up to you, people of Valoria, to determine your future!” I proclaimed, raising a fist dramatically. “Choose a new leader, someone who will listen to you and guide this kingdom toward a brighter tomorrow!”
A wave of cheers erupted from the crowd. They raised their fists in unison, their voices filled with newfound resolve. A swell of pride and accomplishment washed over me—I had freed these people from Gaspar’s cruel grasp.
As the cheers subsided, the people turned to me with gratitude in their eyes.
“Thank you, Griffith!” cried a woman, tears streaming down her face. “Thank you for ending the reign of that monster!”
I gave her a small, reassuring nod, a kind smile on my lips.
“It was the least I could do,” I replied humbly. “Now, the rest is up to you. Build a future where Valoria can thrive.”
The crowd nodded enthusiastically, their expressions glowing with hope and determination.
As I prepared to leave, my interface suddenly activated, displaying new information before my eyes.
Interface:
Name: Griffith Age: 15 Level: 72 → 74 Race: Human Strength: 170/170 Speed: 245/250
Defense: 167/170 Intelligence: 90/90 Health: 430/1000 Mana: 120/600 Magic: 0/0 Stamina: 122/500
I frowned slightly as I noticed the significant level increase. How had I gained two levels so quickly?
Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.
After a moment of reflection, it became clear. My battle against Gaspar must have granted me an extraordinary amount of experience. Defeating such a formidable opponent was bound to result in rapid growth.
I smiled, pleased to see my efforts paying off. I felt stronger, more attuned to my abilities.
Closing the interface, I made my way to the stable where I had left my loyal horse. The steadfast creature greeted me with a joyful whinny as I approached.
“Well, my friend,” I said, gently stroking his neck, “ready for another adventure?”
He snorted eagerly, his energy seemingly renewed. Taking his reins, I led him out of the stable and gave one final wave to the people of Valoria, who continued to cheer with gratitude.
“Safe travels, Griffith!” they called out in unison. “Thank you for everything you’ve done for us!”
I gave them one last smile and nod before climbing into the saddle. Without delay, I set off toward the east, following the road that led out of the kingdom.
The journey was long and grueling. The path took me through barren, sun-scorched landscapes, the heat sapping both my strength and my horse’s endurance. But I pressed on, driven by the determination to reach my next destination.
At last, after hours of relentless travel, a shimmering expanse of water appeared on the horizon. A massive lake stretched as far as the eye could see, its distant shores fading into the horizon.
Curious, I urged my horse forward, eager to explore this new region. As we neared the shoreline, I spotted a small wooden canoe, seemingly abandoned by its owner.
Dismounting, I approached the vessel cautiously, inspecting it closely. It was in good condition, large enough to carry both me and my horse.
Suddenly, a low growl came from my left. Whipping around, my hand instinctively went to the hilt of my sword. Standing at the water’s edge was a burly man, his rugged appearance and wary eyes giving him a menacing air.
“What’s your business here, stranger?” he barked, his voice gruff and commanding.
Raising my hands in a gesture of peace, I adopted a calm and non-threatening tone.
“I mean no harm,” I said evenly. “I’m merely passing through and need to cross this lake. Would you allow me to use your canoe?”
The man studied me for a long moment, his sharp gaze filled with suspicion. After a tense pause, he let out a reluctant grunt and nodded.
“Fine, you can use it,” he growled. “But don’t you dare try anything funny.”
I thanked him sincerely, relieved by his cooperation. Tying my horse to the back of the canoe, I climbed aboard and began paddling carefully across the vast lake.
The water stretched endlessly, calm and deep, reflecting the stark, arid landscape surrounding it. Despite the desolation, there was something captivating about this tranquil expanse in the middle of such a harsh environment.
As I navigated, my thoughts drifted back to recent events. My victory over Gaspar and the liberation of Valoria had filled me with pride and a sense of accomplishment.
But new questions loomed ahead. What awaited me on the other side of this lake? What would become of Valoria now that its tyrant was gone? And most importantly, where was the elusive Demon’s Vein?
I clenched my fists, determined to uncover the answers. I was stronger now, more experienced, and finally free to act without fear of retribution. This was an opportunity I couldn’t waste.
Lost in thought, I barely noticed the canoe bumping gently against the far shore. Quickly stabilizing the vessel, I secured my horse and stepped onto solid ground.
The landscape on this side of the lake was just as barren and dry, but far in the distance, something caught my eye—a silhouette rising against the horizon.
Squinting, I focused on the distant shape. When I finally recognized it, my heart skipped a beat.
It was a city—a sprawling metropolis that stretched as far as the eye could see. Its pointed rooftops and towering spires stood proudly against the backdrop of the setting sun.