You stepped forward calmly, your presence alone making the entire guild hall feel heavier.
First, you raised your hand and snapped your fingers once — softly, but with clear intent.
A gentle wave of starlight washed over the survivors. Every bruise, cut, and sign of exhaustion vanished instantly. Their torn clothes mended into clean, warm garments. Fresh, warm food and water materialized in front of them — hearty bread, stew, fruits, and nourishing drinks that would restore their strength. The children stopped crying and stared in wide-eyed wonder as their hunger and pain disappeared.
The elders gasped, tears of relief flowing freely.
"Thank you… Lord Grim… thank you," one of them whispered, bowing deeply even though you had told them never to speak your name openly.
You then turned to face the entire guild hall, your voice carrying clearly and with quiet cosmic weight so that every adventurer, receptionist, and survivor could hear:
"Listen well."
The hall fell into absolute silence.
"The Goddess has crossed a line. She destroyed Eldenwood — the village we once protected — out of petty revenge because we refused to kneel before her or her King. She slaughtered innocent people. She blocked all information so we would not know. She made a deal with the Demon Lord to come after me and my family."
You paused, letting the words sink in.
"I do not kneel to kings. I do not kneel to gods. And I will not forgive this."
Your glowing tattoos became faintly visible for a moment as you continued:
"From this day forward, the Goddess is my enemy. If she wants war, she will have it. Anyone who stands with her will share her fate. But those who are innocent — the people of this kingdom, the survivors here — have nothing to fear from me."
You looked directly at the survivors.
"You are under my protection now. No one will harm you again. You will be given a safe place to live, food, and everything you need. Eldenwood will be remembered… and avenged."
Miya stood tall beside you, Starfang glowing faintly at her hip, her emerald eyes burning with loyal fury. She nodded once, clearly ready to follow any order you gave.
Lukas's shadows coiled darkly around him, his Cosmic Lord title radiating power. Liora stayed protectively close to him.
The entire guild hall was stunned into silence. No one had ever heard anyone openly declare war on the Goddess before — especially not in such a calm, absolute way.
The survivors looked at you with tearful gratitude and awe.