A Godlike presence pressed into the room. Conversations died. Even breathing seemed to halt. Silver forks stilled mid air, no longer striking against plates.
Then the whispers began rising like a tide.
"The King… His Majesty is here."
Chairs scraped loudly against the floor. Mothers stood up so quickly their bowls tipped over, food spilling across the tables. The once quiet hall exploded into frantic movement. Women rushed toward the far doors where a tall figure had just entered, surrounded by knights in white armor.
"Your Majesty!"
"Please look at me!"
"Thank you for saving us!"
"Oh, you've blessed our lives… our Dragon King…"
Some of the mothers dropped to their knees. Others pushed forward desperately, their hands reaching out as if touching him would grant them a blessing.
Even Sarah struggled to stand. Her legs trembled, but she forced herself up anyway, clutching the edge of the table before slowly moving forward with the others.
"Sarah?" Shuna whispered.
