Frozen Flame of Dawn - Chapter 89

Chapter 89: Chapter 43: Address the New Dawn_2

The crowd shook when she spoke, and people sat up straighter and looked more serious. “From now on, this new world demands more from us, because us humans take time to adapt and awaken while the mutated beasts affected are not bound by the same limitations and are evolving rapidly, becoming stronger with each passing day.”

Amira leaned forward and said, “These creatures don’t hesitate or hold back, and if we can’t match their strength, survival won’t be an option; right now, if you’re not strong enough to face them, even stepping outside your home isn’t safe because these mutated beasts are everywhere—on the highways, in the forests, and creeping closer to town—and with their numbers growing faster than ours, we’re at risk of becoming prey if we don’t act soon.”

Her voice rose slightly, carrying conviction. “Our ancestors fought their way to the top of the food chain, creating a future for us before and now, it’s our turn and time to sacrifice, to fight, to adapt so that our future generations can live in peace.”

Amira’s words had stirred up something in the crowd, especially among the young people as there was something—a spark of resolve, faint but present.

“But if you’re still hoping that the Federation will come to save us, let me shatter that illusion,” she said with her tone hardening. “Because they have abandoned the outer provinces. They’ve delegated the safety of these regions to the provincial governors and the armies stationed here and let’s not delude ourselves—the governor of this province will not help you. His first priority will always be his own interests to safeguard himself and the wealthiest few while the rest of us are left to fend for ourselves.”

Everyone in the room mumbled agreement as they were filled with anger and dissatisfaction.

“So,” Amira said, in a clear voice, “it’s up to us now to build a community where we stand together to protect one another, and grow stronger by becoming independent, so we no longer rely on others to save us.”

The hall fell silent once again as she stopped to let her words sink in, as the weight of her speech pressing down on everyone.

Then, with a faint sigh, she continued with her tone gentler but no less firm. “I’m standing here today not to make empty promises or pretend I have all the answers, but to be honest with you—what we need isn’t just strength, but real guidance, protection, and a system that holds us accountable, because the truth is, none of us are perfect, but with the right direction, we can prevent the what happened before from repeating itself.”

After putting a faint but knowing smile she said. “And if you think that’s just me trying to sound noble, well, you’re half right but more importantly, it’s what you deserve because a town doesn’t just survive by, but truly thrives and to get there, we need each other.”

“And tonight,” Amira continued as her tone softening, “isn’t just about coming together for a meal. It’s about preparing for the future for which I have something to share with you—a special dish that’s been prepared as part of tonight’s feast and it’s not just food; it’s an opportunity.”

The crowd moved as their interest grew.

“This dish is prepared using the meat of mutated beasts, and I get that it might sound a bit unsettling, but trust me—my team and I have it regularly, and it’s been an essential source of strength for us,” she assured while continuing, “because this meat is packed with spiritual energy that can help your body adjust to the new world and even unlock hidden potential, even if you haven’t shown any signs of evolution yet.”

Whispers of disbelief and curiosity were heard after the gasps which now filled the hall.

Amira glanced around the crowd and said, “I won’t lie to you as this isn’t a magical solution that will solve everything, but it’s a move forward, an opportunity to get stronger and prepare for what lies ahead.”

“Also I know many of you think why are we here instead of a city with towering walls, government support, and better security?” she said with a reassuring smile.

“Big cities already have the protection they need, but smaller towns, villages, and settlements are left vulnerable and often forgotten,” she said, scanning the crowd. “What we have here is something they don’t—natural defenses. The steep ridges around the basin act as barriers against threats, and the river running through provides fertile land, giving us a chance to be self-sufficient and independent from outside help.”

Hearing advantages about their town many among the crowd has realization as they understood.

“You can ask if you have anything in your mind, but before I just wanted to tell,” Amira continued by saying. “that this town has the potential to become a sanctuary, a stronghold for survival and not just for ourselves, but for anyone seeking refuge, which I promise will make it happen with your help.”

“Are you saying we all have the potential to…” with hesitation, a woman in the front row raised her hand and asked a question that was on everyone’s thoughts. “awaken like those thugs or your team?”

Amira smiled reassuringly and nodded. “Yes, although not right away, this will make you stronger, healthy, and better able to protect your families and be assured that I will be sharing the same meal with my team right here with you.”

A wave of relief washed through the crowd, and a few skeptical faces softened slightly.

Amira took a step away from the podium and spoke calmly, “No one’s forcing you to fight these beasts or put your lives on the line as there are plenty of other ways to help, whether it’s farming, building defenses, or organizing supplies, but to do any of it, you need to stay strong and healthy, and tonight is just the beginning.”

A quiet murmur of agreement rippled through the crowd, and Amira’s heart swelled slightly. It wasn’t unanimous trust, not yet, but it was a start.

With a nod to Megan, she signaled for the feast to begin.

As Amira moved to the back of the hall, Bella who was watching before approached her from the side. “Looks like your speech worked.” she said.

Amira let out small breath as she looked over the crowd. “It’s a start,” she said. “But we have a long way to go.”

Bella padded on her back as she said. “One step a time, friend. One step a time.”