Chapter 14 – "Chains of the Past"
The fires of celebration burned bright in the capital.
The people feasted, singing songs of victory, and warriors told exaggerated stories of Reinhardt's duel with the troll.
Yet even as laughter filled the streets, Reinhardt stood on the palace balcony, watching the horizon.
Elara joined him, holding a goblet of wine. "You're not celebrating?"
Reinhardt exhaled. "We won the battle, but the war isn't over."
Before Elara could respond, a scout rushed in.
"My lord! A merchant caravan approaches… and they are transporting elves in chains."
Silence.
Reinhardt's expression darkened.
"Bring them to me."
At the gates, a large wooden caravan creaked to a halt.
A fat merchant in silk robes stepped down, rubbing his hands together. "My lord, a pleasure! I have brought you a fine selection of exotic goods—war prisoners, perfect for labor or—"
He never finished.
Because Reinhardt's killing intent hit him like a tidal wave.
"You dare bring slaves to my kingdom?" Reinhardt's voice was cold, his golden eyes burning with fury.
The merchant stumbled back. "I… I didn't realize slavery was—"
Reinhardt drew his sword. "You realize now."
The knights behind him unsheathed their weapons.
Panic spread through the merchant's men.
Elara adjusted her glasses. "The king does not tolerate slavery. Release them."
The merchant hesitated… then hurriedly unlocked the cages.
The Elves – Broken but Not Defeated
The elves stepped forward, their bodies bruised, their expressions hollow.
Some bore intricate tattoos, marking them as former warriors.
Others clutched grimoires, clearly once scholars or mages.
A few had their ears cut short, a cruel attempt to erase their identity.
One elf, tall and proud despite his chains, met Reinhardt's gaze.
"You are human," he spat. "Why should we trust you?"
Reinhardt sheathed his sword and stepped forward.
"Because I do not stand as a human before you. I stand as a king who will not allow tyranny in his lands."
The elves stiffened.
Then—one fell to his knees, followed by another, and another.
A silver-haired elf woman, her voice hoarse from captivity, spoke.
"Then you… have our loyalty."
[New Population Added: 300 Elves!]
50 Elven Archers (Masterful bowmen)
40 Elven Mages (Wielders of ancient magic)
30 Elven Craftsmen (Renowned for their artistry)
180 Survivors in need of care
With the elves integrating into the city, new changes took root:
Elven builders improved architecture, creating more refined designs.
Elven magic was studied in the academy, expanding knowledge.
Elven hunters joined patrols, making the city safer.
But most importantly—Reinhardt's kingdom became a haven for the oppressed.
And the world began to take notice.
[System Notification – Defender of the Oppressed!]
Congratulations! You have abolished slavery in your lands and gained the loyalty of an entire race!
+800,000,000 SP
New Title Unlocked: "Liberator of Chains"
Elven Kingdoms have taken an interest in your rule…
Reinhardt smirked.
"Let them come."