They Hated Me in My First Life, But Now I Have the Love System-Chapter 378: Plans Fall Apart

The elder stepped back, signaling the crowning ceremony’s close. The main part of the coronation was complete.

But the evening was far from over.

The crowd erupted again, voices swelling in cheers and praise. The future had been declared, bright, uncertain, but full of promise.

Somto looked to his family, a smile breaking through his stoic mask. He was more than ready.

Somto stepped up to the podium, his eyes steady and calm as they scanned the sea of faces before him. The murmurs faded into silence; everyone leaned in, eager to hear the new king speak.

"My people, my family, honored guests from near and far, today marks not just the passing of a crown, but the beginning of a new Chapter for our kingdom."

He paused, voice firm but measured. "I have stood on battlefields, faced enemies who sought to break us, and survived by the strength of my convictions and the loyalty of my people. But here, today, my greatest battle is to govern with justice, compassion, and wisdom."

Heads nodded slowly. Some faces held quiet anticipation; no one dared interrupt.

"Laws will be upheld, not to bind you, but to protect you. The weak will find shelter, the honest will find fairness, and the brave will find respect. I do not claim to be perfect, but I vow to listen, to learn, and to lead with honor."

A few elders exchanged approving glances. The youngest guests whispered in awe, sensing the weight behind his words.

"Together, we will build a kingdom where every voice is heard, where every hand is valued, and where the future is brighter than the past."

Somto’s gaze softened as he looked to his family, then out to the crowd. "This crown is not just mine, it belongs to all of us. I ask not only for your loyalty but for your trust, and I promise to earn it every day."

A respectful silence followed, then a ripple of applause started, building steadily as his subjects and other guests rose to their feet.

One of the dukes, watching thoughtfully, nodded subtly, "A warrior’s heart with a king’s wisdom. This could bring stability we desperately need."

Some younger nobles whispered doubts. "He sounds strong, but will he be flexible enough to lead with compassion?" one asked.

Lady Ming, one of the high ranking elders observed Somto, her eyes gleamed as she leaned toward a nearby noble. "He speaks like a man who’s carried battles and burdens alike. That strength... it’s real."

A whisper came from the diplomat beside her, "And yet, his promise to listen... that caught me off guard. Humility in a king is rare."

A young baron, standing stiff beside Bora, dared a small smile. "Finally, a king who understands that power isn’t just about might."

In the livestream comments, the reaction was swift and varied:

@RoyalWatcher89: "Somto’s calm confidence is exactly what we need. No nonsense, just real leadership."

@NobleHeart: "Love how he’s focused on justice and unity. No empty promises here."

@DramaQueen25: "Not a flashy speech, but you can feel the respect. Respect the king!"

@Skeptic101: "Hmm, hope he can back it up. Words are cheap, but the crown isn’t."

Back in the hall, whispers floated through the crowd.

"He speaks with such quiet power," murmured a dignitary.

"A leader who listens, finally," another replied.

Somto’s family exchanged subtle smiles hearing the guests whisper their approval. His mother’s eyes glistened with pride, while Ebere’s glance held a new admiration and respect.

All the kings who had once thought Lionara was weak now knew better. Somto’s strength wasn’t a show, it was real, undeniable. They had prepared carefully chosen gifts, and not so great ones. The first set, a sign of respect. The second ones, a sign of disrespect.

They prepared these offerings not just as presents, but as silent messages: if the new king was weak, they could exploit it. But after everything that had unfolded, it was clear to all, the new king of Lionara was anything but weak.

They silently prepared the best gifts while sighing at their ruined plan.

The gifts were impressive, fine works crafted by the best artisans, treasures worthy of a ruler who had proven his mettle. They would be presented in order, ranked by the closeness of each kingdom’s relationship with Lionara.

"Go and prepare the gifts. It’s almost time. I’m guessing the family of King Somto will go last in presenting gifts. Hurry up now." One of the noble women said to her personal servant.

This fell into the ears of Nnenna.

The family of King Somto will go last in presenting gifts??

Nnenna’s breath caught in her throat.

No one had told her she needed to prepare a gift, as a family member, she thought it was only the guests’ responsibility. The books clearly said guests should bring gifts, and livestream viewers could send theirs virtually if they wished. But a gift from her? That was unexpected.

Her mind raced. Did this mean more pressure than she had anticipated? What kind of gift could she possibly offer?

The room hummed with anticipation as the presentation of gifts time drew near, but Nnenna’s heart thudded louder than the murmurs around her.

The guests began to step forward, each moving with careful grace. The first was King Seungho. His children were engaged to the new King’s siblings so he considered himself the closest ally to Lionara.

He walked forward, a subtle, confident smile playing at his lips. In his hands, he carried a gold inlaid scepter handle, an exquisite piece, shimmering under the hall’s lights.

As he approached the throne, his voice rang clear and steady, "King Somto, congratulations. May this scepter remind you that true power lies not in force alone, but in wisdom and justice. May it guide your hand as you lead your kingdom to greatness."

The room hushed, then whispered spread like wildfire. "A symbol of strength and authority," one noble murmured. "What a gift!" another added with awe.

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