The old man's voice had faded as the entire Central Kingdom reacted.
It wasn't a simple response to Kael's presence.
It was mobilization.
The rivers of mana that flowed through the continental branches changed direction simultaneously. Golden currents began to course through the entire structure of the World Tree like arteries awakening after a long period of rest. Space vibrated. The gigantic leaves above them produced a deep sound, like the roar of a distant storm.
Then the inhabitants of the Central Kingdom began to emerge.
Not by the thousands.
By the millions.
Kael watched as the horizon disappeared.
The farthest branches were covered with figures emerging from the living wood itself. Some had humanoid forms. Others resembled ancient animals. There were creatures made entirely of roots, entities composed of primordial crystal, and giants whose mere presence made mountains seem small.
Everyone looked at him.
Everyone.
The old man sighed.
