Adrian's conversation with Serena lasted longer than he had anticipated, as he found himself listening to some tales from her too.
By the time he ended the call, Adrian's achievements finally settled in on him. He had done it. He had killed the King and, in doing so, had taken the first step toward building a new, more just kingdom. The weight of his self imposed title title settled on his shoulders. He felt the gravity of it, but also a sense of purpose he hadn't known before.
After returning to the room, Adrian found it blessedly empty. Princess Nyra was gone. He locked the door and sank into the soft bed, the exhaustion he had been holding at bay finally overwhelming him.
The healing pills had helped, but the physical and mental strain of his battle with the King was still taking its toll.
His muscles screamed in protest and his dantian, throbbed with a persistent ache. Still, he knew it was worth it. The war was over. Lives had been saved.
