At the same time ~ the Border of Kingdom Arcenia
The streets hummed with the weight of unspoken sorrow, thick with the murmurs of a people torn between grief and reluctant acceptance. The imperial banners fluttered in the breeze, stark against the subdued palette of defeat, as the rhythmic march of the Valentino Empire's army echoed through the cobbled roads, each step a solemn declaration of conquest.
The red flag of the roaring golden lion was raised as the flag of Arcenia was pulled down, making them accept their defeat and the fact that they were now under the Valentino Empire.
At the entrance of the royal palace, a grand podium was prepared for the surrender ceremony, and their king stood. His once-proud figure now wilted beneath the heavy gaze of his subjects, his head bowed—not in disgrace, but in sacrifice.
Encircled by imperial knights, he bore the silence of a man who had chosen the suffering of one over the suffering of many.
He had surrendered for them.
