Parallel Vol. 4 [LEGACY EDITION]

Chapter 69.2: Empire's Foundation (2)

The target of Kashi's call hesitated, staring at the daeben in confusion as if to say, 'Me?' To their surprise, Kashi did not look elsewhere, but instead, waved them forward as he once again called out, "Asha, come here."

Asha pointed at herself as she stared at Kashi in utter disbelief. What the hell? King? Or rather it should be Queen, right? How could she be a queen? She was the furthest thing from noble-born! How could someone like her suddenly become a ruler? She wasn't worthy!

As if sensing Asha's doubt, Kashi said as he rose to his feet, "Do not doubt yourself." He held her gaze, his voice carrying to the entire room as he assured her, "You are more than qualified to ascend the throne. You protected and found a way for the nigh-extinct felur races to survive through the greatest perils of their lives; You've displayed uncommon courage and wisdom to lead your people into battle. Also, you've exhibited humility to accept your wrongs and seek alternate solutions, which is more than I can say for many leaders." Kashi paused, and then added, "But perhaps, most importantly to the world, you have the recognition of the East Claw." Seeing Asha's confusion, he explained, "There is a reason Brock sent you as the East Claw's representative. It was to send a message. In his eyes, you are more than qualified to make decisions on behalf of the East Claw."

"With the East on your side, all you need is the goodwill of the South, Aygorzi and the West Claw." Kashi looked at King Xafier. "Does Aygorzi have any objections to Asha ascending the throne?"

King Xafier glanced at Asha, "My sources tell me it is thanks to you that we do not have to fear Orthana's retaliation. Is this true?"

"That is not entirely correct," Asha replied, her tone neither servile nor overbearing. The slightly subdued demeanor she had when talking with Kashi was nowhere to be seen as she responded to King Xafier. "Uncle Brock was the one who personally ended her life."

King Xafier nodded, pleased with her honesty. "That may be so, but you are the one who motivated him to interfere. That makes you just as, if not more responsible for her demise. And for that, Aygorzi will forever be grateful." With a smile, he looked at Kashi and proclaimed, "Aygorzi has no issues with this appointment. We fully stand behind it, and will do our best to ensure smooth and blissful relations between our kingdoms."

"Thank you," Kashi said with a grateful nod, and then turned to King Parissius. "The Merriheim's Southern Territory is currently under Rosendun's flag. As such, the future King or Queen needs your input at the moment. Do you agree to Asha's appointment as Queen?"

King Parissius revealed a brilliant smile as he looked at Asha. "No objections here. Ms. Asha, if both Kashi and Leila are willing to vouch for you, then, coupled with the reports I have received, there is no better candidate at the moment." The King nodded and then declared, "With the gods as witness, as long as you accept, I will ensure you are crowned Queen this very moment."

Asha swallowed hard, unable to weather King Parissius' powerful gaze. It seemed to be peering into the very depths of her soul, stoking the flames of her spirit to rise to the occasion. However, despite this being an opportunity many would kill for, the young chetah woman found herself overwhelmed. Could she really do it? Rule over an entire country? Up till now, she had only focused on ensuring the survival of the felur race.

This, in comparison, was an astronomical jump both in scale and severity. She did not believe she was ready. After hesitating, she finally looked at Kashi and started, "Can I have some ti—"

"There is no protecting those you love without strength," Kashi interrupted before she could finish. "If you do not have power, the lives of your loved ones will always remain subject to the whims of those in power." The daeben's eyes drilled into Asha's, provoking the Protector within her. "But Power comes with responsibility. If you want the power to protect your people from harm, you must be ready to bear the harsh responsibilities that come with it."