Free Web NovelChapter 209: New Leaders (1)
As the settlement slowly regained its sense of normalcy after the tumultuous events, a new dawn was on the horizon.
The sun painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, casting a warm glow over the community. But amidst the morning’s beauty, a sense of anticipation lingered in the air.
Shinon stood at the centre of the council room, surrounded by a crowd of council members who had gathered to address the recent turmoil.
The atmosphere was tense, a palpable mix of relief and uncertainty hanging in the air. Marcus’s exile had left a void in leadership, one that needed to be filled promptly, and everyone had gathered to come up with a solution.
A vote was carried out amongst the council members, and Shinon won with a rockslide, with everyone’s vote going to him while he voted for Selena.
Everyone thought it was due to obligation that no one could vote for themselves. But Shinon disagreed.
"I know many of you have suggested that I should take over as the leader," Shinon began, his voice clear and steady. "But I want to clarify that I am not the right choice for this role."
A murmur of surprise rippled through the crowd. For weeks, they had witnessed Shinon’s unwavering courage and resourcefulness, and many believed he was the natural choice to lead. But Shinon had his reasons for declining.
"I came to this world as an outsider," he continued, his gaze sweeping over the faces of the council members. "My place is not here. I have a home, a life, and responsibilities waiting for me in my world. As much as I would love to stay here... I can’t."
He continued, "On top of that, the settlement needs a permanent and sustainable leadership. Which I believe I’m not capable of."
The disappointment in the crowd was evident, but Shinon’s words were met with understanding. He had always been forthright about his origins, and the settlers respected his honesty.
"So, who should lead us then?" Sable stepped forward, her presence commanding attention.
"I believe the settlement needs a leader who knows this place, its people, and its values." Kira threw in her two cents, "Someone who can guide us through these challenging times." freewebnσvel.cøm
"I say, since Shinon won the most votes, he should be the one to crown someone as the leader." Lova chimed in before winking at Shinon.
She could guess Shinon had already made a decision, and by her logic, it would give him the power to decide the settlement’s fate.
Everyone nodded in agreement, and Shinon sighed before scanning the room. His eyes first fell on Kira and Rico, and while they were reliable, Shinon had different plans for them, so he couldn’t just let them go.
Next, he scanned the Phoenixes. While one of them would have been the obvious choice, Shinon knew their image had taken a hit, and the settlers would always be on edge around them.
Without counting them out, the choice was clear. Selena would have to be the one to take up the mantle of responsibility. She had been a respected settlement member for years, known for her friendliness and no-bullshit attitude. Also, everyone in the settlement loved her, so there was that.
A murmur of agreement swept through the crowd as Selena’s words resonated with them. She had always been a pillar of support in the settlement, and her dedication to its well-being was unquestionable.
"Selena," Shinon said, his voice carrying a note of finality. "I believe you are the right person to lead the settlement. You have my full support as long as I am here."
"Me? But I’m not sure I’m cut out for leadership." Selena blinked in surprise.
"You’ve shown strength, intelligence, and compassion," Shinon turned to face her, a faint smile on his lips. "You care for this place and its people. That’s what a leader needs. Besides, I’ll be here to support you, even if I’m not officially the leader."
"You’re not gonna leave us high and dry, right?" Selena asked, clearly joking around.
"As I said before, my place is not here," Shinon shook his head with a soft smile. "But I promise I’ll do everything possible to ensure your leadership success. I don’t have a way to return yet, so i’m not leaving you all ’high and dry’ as you said."
"I am deeply honoured and humbled by your trust in me." With a nod of acceptance, Selena turned to address the crowd. "Together, we will rebuild and strengthen our settlement, ensuring a safe and prosperous future for all."
The settlers erupted into applause, welcoming Selena as their new leader.
***
After the announcement, Shinon and Selena retreated to a quieter corner of the settlement, away from the jubilant crowd.
"You did well up there," Shinon remarked to Selena as they walked together under the clear, blue sky.
"It’s not like I had a choice once you put me in that spot," Selena chuckled, her voice filled with gratitude. "Regardless, I will do my best to lead our people."
"I have no doubt about that," Shinon replied. "You were always the heart of this place."
Selena smiled; her eyes wanted to say something else, but she refrained, and her voice turned serious. "Now, about Aric... What should we do with him?"
Shinon’s brow furrowed as he considered the question. Aric had caused immeasurable pain and suffering, and his presence remained a threat. The man had caused immeasurable misery to hundreds of people and had been the source of chaos for those around him. fгee𝑤ebɳoveɭ.cøm
"I believe he should face severe consequences for his actions," Shinon said, his tone firm. "But I also think we should do it in a way that reflects our values, not his cruelty. Nah, scratch that... let’s punish the bastard in the cruellest way possible."
"I remember how he used to punish those he deemed traitors. He’d throw them into a pit of zombies, tied and defenceless." Selena replied, lost in her thoughts. "If you know what I mean."
"Hm... on second thought," Shinon’s eyes hardened as he recalled the brutality of Aric’s methods. "We should let him face the same fate. Let him experience the fear and helplessness he inflicted on others."
