Address the people.

You've done it. In your hands is a solid chest of loot to add to your treasury, and on top is the Shard of Draconax radiating with power. After everyone has composed themselves to meet an audience, they follow behind King Agam back the way you all originally came. You avoid any debris which has fallen from the roof, and after a few moments, you one again see the sparkling lights of the underwater city through opened palace doors. People have indeed gathered. It was quite the show. Not only would people have heard the explosions and sounds of conflict, but there's still a cloud of dust wafting up from the rooftop where a hole was blasted straight through to the outside. People look rather concerned, though they seem somewhat relieved upon seeing their ruler make his appearance, with four heroes behind him.

At last, King Agam, now solitary ruler of Nureteru, gathers the attention of his subjects since the chaos began. Everyone quiets down as he raises his hand. "Fret not, my people," comes his deep booming voice. He floats up above them with a cloudy white beard floating in the current. "Today, we have faced a terrible tragedy, but it would have ended even worse if not for the bravery of these heroes before you. Your queen, Iri, turned out to be nothing more than an evil witch wishing to take us down from the inside."

The crowd gasps and murmurs among each other.

But he continues. "But like I said, fret not. For despite this, we had rid a great evil today. I, King Agam, take full responsibility for allowing this to happen. I will work tirelessly to rebuild what we've lost, and I'll be more cautious with whom I trust in the future to help lead you all."

Candy whispers up towards you. "I doubt that."

"The brave and mighty Kyle Warren led the charge against the witch of the sea. It was he who saved us, along with the skillful Snow, the crafty Candy, and the stunningly gorgeous Kailani. Please thank them now with a showing of your hands together!"

Among the applause, Kailani blushes and looks to you. "I was kinda hoping for something like... the strong warrior, Kailani."

You chuckle and place a hand upon her shoulder. "Well, his words are still true. But I know what you mean. I don't think the king is going to change too much, but he seems like a good guy at heart."

Candy nods. "Yeah. Only the most good natured people pretend to leave so they can watch their guests do the nasty."

"And only the most good natured guests do the nasty in the king's royal palace."

"I guess we're all a little guilty today, huh?"

Snow scratches her cheek and looks away shyly. "I don't think what he did was all that bad," she mutters so quietly that those around her can hardly hear through the cheering of the people.

You look at her with a smirk. "I'm not surprised."

"B-But I got a new bow, and we got the Shard, so maybe we should head back soon," she quickly adds.

"I agree." You look to the king, though he's already on his way back down.

"Yes," he responds. "I understand. This is not your world down here. And you came for a reason so far beyond what happened. Take your treasure, and return to your home, but please don't forget about us. You may return anytime you wish."

"And it was good to see you again," you say as you look towards Kailani.

Her mermaid's cheeks light up. "Oh! Y-Yes. It was very good." She then smiles and giggles nervously. "Don't be a stranger."

"You can keep your shells this time. You're the one who helped us."

She places a hand upon her seashell bra. Whether she realizes or not, there's still a little bit of a mess around them. "Yes... Of course. Goodbye, Kyle, but I hope we see each other again soon. You truly are an amazing man. If I'm ever able to visit you somehow, I will!"

"I hope you do. Keep this city safe, scout of Dolphin Division 3." You salute.

She grabs you by the arm. "That's too formal!" she says with a laugh. "After what happened... I don't want to hear you sound like just an acquaintance." Then as a final gesture, she swims up as close as possible, and gives you a soft kiss on the cheek. "Safe travels," she whispers.

You feel a warmth in your chest, driven by those around you. There's a connection between you and Snow, but Kailani too, and even Candy after everything you've been through together. "Let's grab our stuff from the palace before we--"

"Already ahead of you. Come inside quickly, and you may change," comes the sudden voice of Vaddund. The guardsman Zag is behind him.

You nod. "Sounds good. Thanks, guys."