Nox turned toward the group and his expression became serious. "We will continue our celebration later, but for now we have a kingdom to start building."
The others nodded, wide grins spreading across their faces, their enthusiasm bubbling over.
Among them, the most excited seemed to be Nathan. It had been the old man’s dream to break out of the Vermilion Kingdom for years now, especially since the previous king had passed away.
"Then let’s not waste time!" he grinned from ear to ear. "First order of business: naming our new kingdom!"
Immediately, everyone erupted with suggestions. Most of them were so wild and funny that Nox thought his own naming sense wasn’t so bad.
Jack stroked his chin thoughtfully and then proposed, "How about the Cumberland Kingdom, after Cromwell?"
Aina shook her head. "Too obvious. What about something that reflects this land’s promise?"
"Cromwell is part of our heritage, but this is more than a Dutchy now. We need a grand name!" Nyx suddenly spoke up.
"I vote for Crimson Dawn Kingdom!" Jack shouted, pumping his fist. "Since we’re lighting the way to a new era!"
Nox grinned despite himself, though his voice was quiet. "Haha, that’s all Jack’s idea. How about something with Cromwell in it?"
Jack scoffed. "Don’t pretend you didn’t like ’Crimson Dawn’! But fine, let the leaders decide."
"What’s wrong with the Western Vermilion Alliance? It has a nice ring for trade deals," said Boris.
Right then, Adrian stepped inside the room, attracting everyone’s attention.
"That sounds too much like it’s still part of Vermilion," he said, a smile spreading on his face when he saw that Nox was perfectly fine. "Like I said before, I’ll see my promise through to the end. The western region is free now—no more ties to the old kingdom. Do you think you’ll head west and rule as its king?"
Nox tilted his head, surprised; no one had ever put it so plainly. A chill slid down his spine. He had never been much for titles. All his life he just wanted to explore the world and carry out his pantheon goal.
But as he grew stronger, he realized one thing.
He was not the type to stay under another person. He liked being in charge and making decisions.
But at the same time, was he truly ready to head a kingdom of his own?
Sensing his doubt, Nathan spoke up, shattering the silence. "Nox, look at yourself and at those who stand with you," he said, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. "You have fought more than any warrior could. You led these soldiers, dragons, undead... you were sometimes reckless, but you always did what you believed was right."
"You deserve the highest honor. But more importantly, you already have the people’s trust."
Finally, Nox chuckled and nodded his head, his eyes shining with determination. "Yes, I plan on heading west and starting to build my kingdom."
Adrian gave a curt nod. "Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ll head back to what I was doing."
With a low bow, the prince left the room along with his entourage.
When Adrian left, Nox spoke with the others for some time, and then all the Awakened who had come from the Cromwell Barony gathered right at the center of town where the battle had taken place.
"Is everyone here?" Nox asked, and the crowd chorused back.
When he was certain that everyone was present, at least the survivors of the war, he activated Sovereign Gate and the giant portal appeared.
As soon as they stepped through the portal, loud cheering echoed, shaking the white town.
Nox and the others were slightly taken aback, even activating their various skills thinking it was an enemy, before they saw clearly.
It was none other than the citizens alongside the refugees. Seeing so many people cheer for them, they felt a rush of emotion surge through them.
Nox knew that he needed to address the eager crowd, so he stepped up and the crowd quietened down.
"Friends, family, and brave comrades," he began, "the time has come for a new beginning. We have cast out the demons who plagued our lands. Thanks to Prince Adrian and our brothers in the east, the Vermilion Kingdom is free."
He continued, "Prince Adrian made a solemn vow: that this western land would stand as its own kingdom, free and independent. And today, I declare that promise fulfilled!"
When they heard this, the courtyard exploded in cheers. Nox’s heart pounded, thrilled by the response.
In the midst of the jubilation, he left along with the others. This was not the time to rest.
Building a kingdom was not something to be taken lightly.
Inside the large tent that had been used as the war room, a large table had been cleared of old maps, and a fresh one lay unfurled before them. It depicted the western region—mountains, the Luminary Forests, and wide plains.
All the key members were present, except Boris, Theo, and Bridget who had decided to stay with Adrian and rebuild the Vermilion Kingdom.
Nox cleared his throat and addressed them all, going straight to the point.
"First, we settle the question of our capital," he announced. He’d been considering options for a while now. The Cromwell Barony was secure, but it was hidden in the mountains. For a capital, easier access was better. He swept his gaze toward Nathan, Elvin, Hans, and Gordon.
They were the oldest here and among the first few who had settled in the western region.
Nathan pointed to a spot labeled Cromwell and said, "We don’t necessarily have to leave."
Nox narrowed his eyes, but didn’t say anything as his grandfather was still speaking.
"This Cromwell town can still act as the capital, but we could cover more ground, possibly breaking the walls and merging with a few neighboring towns as well..."
Thanks to all those that support Supreme BeastTamer with their valuable Golden Tickets and Power Stones. I really appreciate it... another Chapter will be up in a few hours!