The New Age

“Master Sorin, it's time.” Mira nudged Sorin's side. His eyes jolted awake instantly.

It's been three days already; time really goes faster being a nation ruler. I'm always busy; it seems to be slipping. No matter, today will be an important milestone; that's what I should focus on.

Sorin got out of his bed quickly, going over to his closet, seeing that there was nothing there.

“Mira—”

She was already holding the clothes in her hands, perfectly and neatly folded. “Your clothes, Master Sorin.”

“I have to get used to getting my clothes handed again; I can't believe that's a real thing I just said.” He sighed, getting a fresh pair of underwear as Mira turned around like usual. He then grabbed the dark grey robe on top of a white shirt and grey pants. It was all ready.

Mira stood still while Sorin was doing the finishing touches. “Do you remember your lines?”

“Of course I remember the lines; I read them hundreds of times.”

She then points towards the notebook she wrote for him, or rather suggests she has: “I haven't written anything in it.” Her expression stays stoic. “You are a terrible liar. I hope that you had a speech in mind.”

Sorin couldn't even reply, just gave a subtle nod. Who better than Mira to always know what he does or doesn't do? He will get her back one day if anything. Now wasn't the time; he paced out of the room with Mira following close behind him as he descended the stairs. The natural light beamed in, and the smell of fresh air came in.

Upon reaching the bottom floor, a single girl with red hair gave him a look. “I'm making a new seal.” She then went back to scribbling on her paper.

“Master Sorin, she won't—”

“I know, she doesn't want to go; leave her be. I expected this anyway.” Sorin turned to leave the door, but he felt a slight tug on his robe. “Mira?”

“I'm going to watch from up here. I wouldn't want people to see me going down with you. Its unoptimal and may cause concern about our relationship. Especially after that gift that came in this morning.”

Sorin froze for a second. “Gift?”

Chikaru didn't say anymore but just handed him a piece of paper; it was a letter. The sender was the chief of Farmouth.

To Sorin the hero.

I'm impressed, young man. Even though I had my doubts about your intentions with my daughter, I can truly say that you should be proud. You managed to do something even my weapons couldn't do.

As chief, I'm here to inform you that I'm hoping we collaborate in the future. I look forward to working with such a talent. Everything in Farmouth has been quiet since you left. The place is peaceful, and my daughter has been getting the training she needs to take my place. All is good.

Make an impression today. Remember to be a leader, not a follower.

From the chief of Farmouth, Tehran.

Hey, Sorin, I managed to sneak myself in here. I just wanted to say congratulations. I was held hostage in these training grounds. I really miss you! I know you can't come back, but I'm going to make it happen! Just make sure to make an impression on everyone!

With sneaky love, Claya.

“Master Sorin has not only been making enemies but also talking to multiple women. I have raised such a womanizer. My failure knows no bounds to my shame,” Mira sighed out.

Chikaru: “Who's this girl, Sorin?” Her curiosity was warranted considering her sneaky love message.

“It's someone I really like, more than a friend if you want to imagine it.” A smile spread on his face; he placed the letter next to the door and finally opened the door to head out. He didn't have his staff with him; it was an announcement, not an attack.

Mira and Sorin kept walking as Chikaru stayed peeking over the door. They went across the magical bridge from bridge hub to bridge hub until the first bridge connecting the two sides; it was just one bridge. But just feeling a real rocky feel to it left him happy.

He then turned his eyes up, seeing a massive crowd talking among themselves, as they waited for Sorin to stand on the podium. He quickly got up; a simple-looking round device was in front of him, a bit covered in dust like it hadn't been used in a decade.

This is it; say what you want to say. Announce the start of everything anew. Bring the west into a new stage made by everyone.

He prepared his throat, taking a deep breath before speaking out.

“Hear me, people of West Acluraria.”

The device roared as expected; the chattering among the crowds instantly died down as all attention was focused on him.

“Today, we will mourn those who have died.” He pointed towards the top layer. “Tonight we will release their ashes, to let the souls finally rest in peace.”

The crowd was still silent; however, the energy shifted towards a somber mood. Everyone was reminiscing about those whom they lost. Those whom they loved, those who were close, and those whom they wanted to know more about. It was mutual silence, respecting one another's private time as they spoke to the souls before departure.

I didn't lose anyone; that's something I can't believe in, as a leader of the revolution. Only I am here without death; Ino and Chikaru are both safe. Claya is safe. I know that I was just fortunate enough to meet powerful people; that's all. I should rejoice that they are alive instead of feeling guilt now in front of thousands.

He left them to their own thoughts for a minute before people started to stare back at him to continue. Once the majority had finished, Sorin understood this was it: “May they all rest for their help in this.”

The second part of my speech.

“I want to announce, as the ruler of West Acluraria, a new era where mages and common people can live and coexist without stepping on each other.” He then got closer to the device, his voice raising a level. “We will all band together to protect one another and to avoid any harm to ourselves; we all are on the same side. We all want to end this war, this terrible war that pledged all of this.” He cleared his throat. “From today on, I, ruler of West Acluraria, announce the new era for us all. A new era where all are equal not by force but for each other's sake!”

The crowd began to almost tear up in their silence, which became a plea for Sorin to let this sit. It was a perfect moment for it to end. Everyone just stood silent. Filled with hope at this new ruler. At Sorin.

“Thank you, everyone, for your hard work.” Sorin stepped off the podium, letting the crowd do whatever they wished. The speech was super short, but the emotions behind it were as big as the city itself. He saw Mira next to him, who just gave an approving nod with a smile. It was rare, but everything already seemed different. It was a good day, the first one without suffering or pain. That's exactly what was needed for a fresh start.