By Simon Thatch, National Affairs Correspondent, The Times-Observer
In a speech broadcast from the Palace’s Western Balcony before a sea of lantern-carrying citizens, King Edmund delivered his first full national address since the end of the Marelian War, offering reassurance, resolve, and a frank accounting of the Kingdom’s trials.
The King spoke for nearly twenty minutes—measured, steady, confident—his words flowing out over the plaza and echoing through streets still decorated with blue-and-white victory streamers.
“We have come through trial by fire,” he began, “and we stand unbroken. The banners of Marelia no longer threaten our borders. Their armies have withdrawn. Their envoys have bent the knee to peace. Yet the greatest victory we claim today is not one of battle—but of unity.”
Calling Out the Hidden Enemy
In a notable moment, the King acknowledged the internal dangers that plagued Eyehasseen during the conflict.
“Steel alone did not endanger us,” he said. “Lies did. Those who whispered poison in the dark, who sought to weaken your courage and erode your trust, struck at the heart of the Kingdom more cruelly than any sword.”
It was the first explicit reference His Majesty has made regarding Rodger “The Liar” Bianchovi and the seditious networks that spread deceit through pamphlets and clandestine publications.
“But the truth prevailed,” he continued. “The people of Eyehasseen, steadfast and discerning, refused to bow to deception.”
A Path Forward
The King’s address outlined three national priorities:
- Reconstruction and Renewal – restoring damaged trade routes, rebuilding coastal structures, and assisting villages affected by Marelian raids.
- Vigilance and Civic Strength – encouraging citizens to uphold truth, virtue, and good order, supported by the new Citizenship Pledge.
- A Lasting Peace – emphasizing diplomacy while maintaining readiness.
“We hold no hatred for Marelia,” the King said. “Their leaders led them astray, as falsehood led some among us. But peace requires courage from victor and vanquished alike.”
A Moment for the People
Perhaps the speech’s most stirring moment came at its end, when the King placed his hand over his heart and spoke directly to the citizens gathered below:
“You carried the Kingdom through every hardship. You held the line in field and factory, in schools and sanctuaries, in truth and in spirit. You are Eyehasseen. And as long as you stand, the Kingdom stands.”
The crowd erupted in cheers that shook loose dust from the palace stones.
Later, one elderly veteran told the Times-Observer, “We needed to hear it. Needed to know the King saw what we endured.”
A Kingdom Steady Once More
The lanterns remained lit long after the King withdrew, glowing like small guardians of peace. Across the capital, people spoke not of fear but of purpose—of rebuilding, of vigilance, of unity.
The war is over. The lies have been silenced.
And under the steady hand of King Edmund, Eyehasseen steps forward unbroken.