Sanctuary: Safe Haven

With bated breath, the people of Avaloria awaited the arrival of the royal carriage. The air was thick with anticipation and excitement. Someone in the crowd shouted that they could see the royal carriage approaching, and thunderous cheers and roars erupted, echoing through the streets.

As the procession drew closer, the first figure they saw was a man with white hair, curiously looking at everything and everyone around him. The people's excitement wavered as they took in his appearance. He looked more like a beggar than a hero: his clothes were stained with mud, he was barefoot, and his tattered pants looked like they might be blown away by the wind.

Murmurs of confusion spread through the crowd. Could this disheveled man really be the one who had saved them?

But then they saw the next man—Kael. Recognized as a national treasure, Kael's presence immediately reignited the crowd's enthusiasm. The people cheered even louder, almost forgetting about the white-haired man who seemed like a mere passerby in comparison.

As the royal carriage came into full view, more roars erupted from the crowd. They were convinced that their true savior, the one who had protected them from the monster wave, must be inside the grand vehicle.

Canna, still taking in the sights and sounds of the kingdom, walked alongside the carriage with an air of calm curiosity. He seemed unfazed by the crowd's mixed reactions. The stark contrast between his casual demeanor and Kael's esteemed presence created an intriguing dynamic that left the onlookers puzzled.

The carriage came to a halt in front of the grand steps leading to the palace. The king emerged, his regal presence commanding respect and awe from the gathered masses. He raised his hand, and the crowd fell into a respectful silence.

"People of Avaloria," the king began, his voice strong and steady. "Today, we welcome back not only your beloved Kael but also a man whose actions have saved this kingdom from certain destruction. Though his appearance may surprise you, do not be deceived. This man, Canna, is the hero who stood against the monster wave."

The crowd's murmurs grew louder as they tried to reconcile the king's words with the image of the disheveled white-haired man. Canna stepped forward, his calm eyes meeting the gazes of the curious and skeptical crowd.

Kael, standing beside Canna, addressed the people. "I know he doesn't look like what you might expect, but trust me when I say that Canna's power and bravery are beyond measure. He has saved us all, and we owe him our gratitude."

The crowd began to cheer once more, their doubts slowly giving way to admiration and respect. They had seen Kael's endorsement and the king's acknowledgment, and that was enough for them to accept Canna as their savior.

Hamilton, the butler, stood nearby, observing the scene with a newfound understanding of Canna. He had witnessed the contrast between the man's humble appearance and his extraordinary deeds. It was a lesson in not judging a book by its cover, and Hamilton couldn't help but feel a deep respect for Canna.

As the cheers grew louder and the people of Avaloria celebrated their heroes, Canna smiled faintly, feeling a sense of acceptance and belonging. He knew that his journey was far from over, but for now, he allowed himself to bask in the gratitude and warmth of the people he had saved.

The king raised his hand once more to quiet the crowd. "Tonight, we celebrate. Let the festivities begin!"

The people erupted in joyous applause, their cheers echoing through the kingdom. The celebration was just beginning, and it was clear that Canna, despite his unassuming appearance, had earned a place in the hearts of Avaloria's people.

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The news of Canna's arrival spread rapidly through Avaloria, creating a ripple of excitement and curiosity. The three kingdoms that had sent reinforcements to Avaloria, as well as various mercenary groups, quickly made their move. They were eager to see and speak with the man who had single-handedly turned the tide against the monster wave.

The Kingdom of Arenthia, known for its disciplined military and strategic acumen, had its delegation led by General Alaric. Alaric, who had already met Canna briefly, was eager to secure a more formal audience. He saw potential in forming an alliance with such a powerful individual. He knew that gaining Canna's favor could bolster Arenthia's military strength and influence in the region.

Simultaneously, the Kingdom of Veridia, renowned for its scholars and magical prowess, also sought an audience with Canna. Their delegation, led by Grand Mage Lysandra, was keen to discuss potential collaborations in magic and research. Lysandra believed that Canna's unique abilities could unlock new realms of magical knowledge and technology.

The third kingdom, Eldoria, famous for its wealth and trade networks, sent its delegation led by Prince Zachary. Eldoria saw an opportunity to secure a powerful ally and expand its influence through strategic partnerships. Prince Zachary, known for his diplomatic skills and charm, aimed to win Canna over with promises of resources and trade benefits.

The mercenary groups, ever opportunistic, were not far behind. The Ironclad Brotherhood, led by their charismatic leader Marcus, aimed to recruit Canna into their ranks or, at the very least, establish a mutually beneficial relationship. The Shadow Blades, a secretive organization specializing in covert operations, saw in Canna a potential asset for their missions. Find more to read at m_v l|e'm-p y r

Their leader, a woman known only as Raven, planned to assess Canna's capabilities firsthand.

Despite their eagerness, none of these groups could get close to Canna. King Alistair had anticipated the rush and had issued strict orders to ensure that Canna and Kael were left undisturbed. The king understood that while alliances were important, Canna and Kael needed rest and time to recuperate.

The palace guards, vigilant and disciplined, enforced the king's decree. The envoys and mercenary leaders found themselves politely but firmly turned away, their requests for meetings noted but deferred. The palace buzzed with the presence of so many influential figures, each hoping to gain an edge in the unfolding situation.