Chapter 52 was meant to be final chapter but I've decided to readd Chapter 53 to the end of Book 2 and an epilogue chapter.

Final edits are going to be updated in the previous chapters!

The sound of Arlan's boots crunched softly against the snow as a sunny afternoon cast itself over him. Before the Immortal General was the hallowed ground of Miss Petrah’s final resting place. Arlan solemnly stood with strength, a sentinel of sorrow. But he was joined by JD and Chrysta, their faces were solemn masks carved by loss and remembrance. Marie and Emmeline lingered just a step behind, their presence a silent offering of solidarity.

"Miss Petrah," Arlan began, his voice gently carrying itself, "Our hearts are still heavy, as if it was yesterday that you left us... We haven't forgotten the pain of losing you."

JD's gauntlet found its way to rest upon Arlan's shoulder—a silent anchor in the swell of memories. Chrysta solemnly lowered her face into her red scarf she wore, hiding her tears.

"But we are your legacy... And with your spirit living through us, we didn't falter under the many hardships," Arlan continued, his gaze not leaving the simple stone that marked her grave. "As of one month ago, the War of the Great Houses is finally over. It ended when we finally bested Luther Kaiser and his father at the Siege of Eisanyr. And even to the end, there was a great deal of bloodshed... House Hawkwell, House Kaiser and House Rainhall chose to die with their fanaticism."

He paused, the silence between his words filled with the ghosts of those who've died in his memory. His fingers traced the etched letters of her name, grounding himself in the permanence of stone.

"Midland is still reeling, the wounds of war are still open and raw. But we'll rebuild, in time. That's what you would have wanted, right?" He could almost hear Miss Petrah’s voice, firm yet kind, urging them to continue on.

"King Richard was laid to rest in Oreta," Arlan continued, the image of the funeral pyre burning bright behind his eyes. "Queen Margaret now rules alone, she's strong—reminds me of you. She'll see us through until Princess Emmeline and I," he gestured without looking at the young princess, "Become King and Queen but the coronation ceremony won't be for two years. Can you believe that? Me... as King of Midland."

"Miss Petrah would easily believe it. She of all people knew how special you are Arlan," interjected JD, his voice steady but thick with emotion. "How special all of us are... She taught us that and made sure we would never forget."

Chrysta nodded, a fragile smile touching her lips. "And she believed in us... Despite being orphans, Miss Petrah embraced us like a mother."

Marie stepped forward, embracing Chrysta from the side, sharing strength in the gesture.

"That's right," Arlan finished, "But the Malum Incarnate is still out there... So we're not done yet. Whatever they have planned for us, we'll be ready. We won't let the embers of war burn this world."

Emmeline's gentle voice broke into his thoughts. "Ar, we should get going... The ceremony is going to start soon."

Arlan blinked, the spell of reflection broken. He nodded and said his farewell, "We'll visit again, I promise."

With a final act, Arlan laid a bouquet of blue frostflowers before Miss Petrah's gravestone. His heart was still heavy but satisfied that he was able to keep his word to Miss Petrah.

 

The five friends turned to see Emmeline's royal carriage and her personal escort of fifty elite royal guards. They boarded the carriage together and rode for Galdo. They were only a mere half hour from where the orphanage originally stood.

The royal carriage trudged through the cobblestone road, surrounded by a light blanket of winter snow. Within, the five friends huddled close, seeking warmth and comfort in each other's company. Marie used a small heatwave spell to keep the compartment warm. The air outside was crisp and bit at their cheeks as they reminisced.

"I still can't believe it," JD said, "After all that fighting, it feels surreal that it's finally over..."

Marie nodded, her face glowing with a mixture of relief and disbelief. "It's like we've been living in a never-ending nightmare. But now, we can start rebuilding."

Chrysta leaned forward, her eyes flickering with determination. "And we'll do it together, just like Miss Petrah would have wanted. We'll take what we've learned from her and build a future where no one will ever have to suffer like we did."

Emmeline smiled softly, her gaze fixed on Arlan. "And you, Ar, fulfilled your duty wonderfully as my King's Blade," she whispered, her voice filled with unwavering faith.

Arlan answered confidently, "Of course. I gave you my word, didn't I?"

The carriage continued its slow progress through the wintry landscape, the horses' hooves creating a rhythmic cadence against the cobblestones. The sun had begun its descent, casting long shadows across the road as it dipped behind the snow-capped mountains in the distance.

Emmeline reached out to grasp Arlan's hand, her touch warm and reassuring. "In just two years, Ar," she murmured, her voice filled with joy, "You will become Midland's next King alongside me as its new Queen."

While returning a firm hold on Emmeline's hand, Arlan continued his gaze out the window while speaking. "It's hard to believe," he admitted, "I never thought I'd become a King. But now that I have the Monarch's Regalia, it's never been more obvious that I need to ascend the throne."

Marie nodded earnestly, her gaze fixed on Arlan. "You were always destined for the crown," she said softly. "And you are the type of person Midland needs to see her through the coming darkness."

JD chimed in, his voice filled with admiration. "I've seen you do the impossible countless times, there is no one else I think better for the crown than you."

Chrysta leaned forward, her eyes shining with unbridled hope. "And don't forget," she said with determination, "We'll be there every step of the way. We'll advise you, support you, and remind you of your true purpose."

Arlan turned to look at his friends, their unwavering loyalty warmed his heart. "Thank you, all of you," he said, his voice filled with gratitude. "I wouldn't be standing here without your support and belief in me."

After another half-hour, the carriage arrived at Galdo City. The city's atmosphere was electric with excitement. The streets were adorned with colorful banners, each one proudly displaying the emblem of Midland. The denizens of Galdo City were still celebrating the end of the war with great fervor, their laughter and cheers echoing through the crisp winter air.

Arlan, Marie, Chrysta, JD, and Emmeline marveled at the scene unfolding before them. The houses were draped in shimmering lights, casting a warm glow on the snow-covered cobblestones. Ornate ice sculptures sparkled in every corner, depicting scenes of victory and peace. Children ran through the streets, their rosy cheeks flushed with joy as they made snow angels in the ground.

"To think that just a few months ago," Marie exclaimed, her eyes shining with delight. "This city was cloaked in darkness and fear."

Emmeline nodded in agreement, "It's a testament to our people's resilience. They've endured so much, and now they have every reason to celebrate."

Chrysta nodded, her eyes twinkling. "Katalina was instrumental in holding Galdo City together. She really did follow in her father's footsteps in becoming a true leader."

"I hope she's doing okay... Marquis Emile's death was a huge loss..." JD added with concern.

Marie's eyes bore into Arlan's, her expression tense with worry as she urgently questioned him, "Do you think she'll be able to handle her new position?"

Arlan let out a deep sigh, his eyes scanning the bustling streets as he contemplated Marie's question. His brow furrowed in concern as he responded, "I have faith that Katalina will be able to handle things. She has always been strong and capable in times of crisis. However... her mother, Countess Vivia, is a different story."

Emmeline chimed in with her own worries, "Indeed. Ever since we returned from Eisanyr, Countess Vivia has been withdrawn and unresponsive."

Arlan nodded gravely, "Norman has been giving me updates. He says she spends most of her days shut away in her chambers, refusing to speak to anyone."

Marie's expression turned even more somber, "Not even to her own daughters? What about Katalina and Katherine?"

A pained look crossed Arlan's face at Marie's words, "No... I haven't heard of any interactions between them. It seems the Countess is completely consumed by grief."

Chrysta's brow furrowed with worry. "What about Katherine?" she asked, referring to Katalina's younger sister. "How is she coping?"

Arlan's gaze softened, his worry evident as he spoke, "Katherine is struggling as well. She has always been close to her father, and his sudden death has shaken her to the core. Katalina has been doing her best to support and comfort her, but it's not easy for either of them."

 

The carriage came to a halt, and the five friends piled out onto the grand courtyard of Highmane. A crowd of servants and guards parted as Queen Margaret, dressed in a regal purple gown, made her way to the front. She exuded power and grace, her crown glinting in the sunlight. Standing beside her was Jin Albera, Duke Louis, and Katalina.

Princess Emmeline stepped forth, her elegant dress sweeping behind her as she approached her mother, Queen Margaret. The rest of their friends and family knelt around them in a show of respect and loyalty.

Emmeline curtsied gracefully before Queen Margaret, "We're back, mother. We're ready for the ceremony."

Queen Margaret smiled warmly at her daughter, placing a hand on her cheek. "It's always a pleasure to have you by my side, my dear."

She then turned to the rest of Arlan's group with a gracious nod, "And to all of you as well. You've accomplished many deeds for the sake of Midland and her people. The crown can never truly repay you for how much you've done. Please rise."

Everyone got up as Queen Margaret elegantly glided toward Arlan with Princess Emmeline following behind. "My dear Arlan, King's Blade of Midland, today is a momentous day for you."

Arlan bowed his head graciously before responding, "Thank you, Your Majesty. I am humbled by your words."

Queen Margaret continued, "With the death of our beloved King, I shall carry on his rule as he intended. Come everyone, we shall start the ceremony inside."

 

The grand hall of Highmane Castle was abuzz with excitement as nobles, officers, and high-ranking officials from the northern territories filled the space. At the front of the room stood Queen Margaret and Princess Emmeline, both radiating regal poise as they awaited the start of the ceremony.

As the murmurs and whispers died down, Queen Margaret's voice rang out, announcing the promotion of Arlan to the rank of Duke. The crowd erupted in applause as Arlan made his way through the sea of people towards the center of the room. He strode confidently in an elaborate military uniform, adorned with numerous accolades and medals for his brave actions on the battlefield.

With a graceful bow, Arlan knelt before Queen Margaret. She began listing off his accomplishments during the southern front campaign, each one met with thunderous applause from the crowd. "Baron Arlan Reeve, your decisive actions crippled House Beaumont's forward army, allowing our royal forces to move freely to the southeast. And then you managed to rout the Rakari Army even while suffering from the curse of eternal slumber. Then just as you woke up from that curse, you swiftly rode to Eisanyr and struck down the leaders of the rebellion, Baron Luther Kaiser and Duke Osmund."

Stepping back, Queen Margaret handed over her place to Princess Emmeline. With pride evident in her voice, she said, "Arlan, you gave me your word as my King's Blade that you would bring an end to the War of the Great Houses... And you kept your promise. You are now released from your duties as King's Blade and will no longer bear its title. As promised, you are now raised in peerage. Rise now as Duke Arlan of House Reeve."

As the newly appointed duke rose to his feet, the sound of applause and cheers filled the air, a resounding confirmation of his newly appointed status. Princess Emmeline, beaming with pride and excitement, stood by Arlan's side and raised her hand for silence.

"I have one last announcement!" she called out, enthusiasm lacing her voice. "In one year's time, Arlan and I will be married. And in two years' time, we will celebrate our coronation as King and Queen of Midland!"

The room erupted into joyful celebration once again, with everyone thrilled to hear the official announcement of the royal wedding. Arlan held tightly onto Emmeline's hand as they waved and smiled at their subjects. Queen Margaret, standing behind the young couple, couldn't help but shed tears as she thought of her late husband King Richard. "If only you could see our daughter now," she whispered to herself with bittersweet emotions.

 

In the southeastern reaches of Midland, twilight cast a serene glow over the sprawling estate, painting the scene in hues of fading gold and deepening blue. Amidst this tranquil backdrop, a lone figure cloaked in shadows made her way with determined steps through the estate's gates, drawing the immediate attention of the watchful guards. The estate's guards, ever vigilant, instinctively raised their weapons toward the stranger, only to be halted by a firm, authoritative voice, "Stand down, I know who that is."

Countess Argold, a figure of noble bearing and composed dignity, advanced toward the cloaked arrival with open arms, her voice laden with years of sorrow and relief, "My dear child... How I've longed for this moment."

The figure, revealing herself as Yuna, was overwhelmed, tears cascading freely as she abandoned her belongings and sought solace in the Countess's embrace. "It's been so hard... Mother... Quinn... he—"

"I'm aware, my child," the Countess gently interrupted, her own voice tinged with grief. "Quinn was a beacon of valor."

Yuna, perplexed and tearful, questioned, "But how did you...?"

The Countess, with a tender gesture, revealed a necklace adorned with an emerald stone, a memento of Quinn's. "This was his. It was meant to shine as long as he lived."

The broken gemstone, dim and lifeless, spoke volumes, prompting Yuna to express her remorse, "I failed him, Mother... I'm so sorry."

The Countess, her voice soft but unwavering, reassured her, "No, Yuna. They fought with honor, for us. Remember them as heroes."

As they knelt together, united in their sorrow, the Countess offered the necklace to Yuna. "Quinn would have wanted you to have this. Now, let's go inside. There's much we need to share."

 

In the heart of Galmora, the town's ceremonial bell rang out, its resonant tones sweeping through the streets, heralding the long-awaited return of the Banner of the Claw. Spotted from afar by the vigilant watchmen, their arrival was a beacon of hope, igniting celebrations throughout the humble town. After enduring the harsh realities of conflict on the southern front and dedicating themselves to the relief efforts in Auron, their journey back home marked the end of a grueling chapter.

As the Banner of the Claw approached the town, Arlan and Emmeline rode at the forefront on Arlan's loyal steed, Kage. The streets were lined with cheering townspeople, waving banners and signs in welcome for their returning heroes. A familiar face greeted Arlan in the town square - Jocko, with tears in his eyes as he knelt before him.

"Glad to have you back, young master," Jocko said through choked sobs.

"It's finally over," Arlan replied as he dismounted Kage and helped Emmeline down. "I have much to tell you and I'm sure you have much to tell me."

"Yes, of course, young master," Jocko nodded as he rose to his feet.

A deep, booming voice echoed through the group - JD's. "You haven't quite gotten used to us being gone yet, have you?" he asked with a chuckle.

Jocko, ever the quick-witted one, retorted, "Such a preposterous notion, Lord JD."

Chrysta joined in on the teasing, asking with a grin, "And what about me, the Coldheart?"

Jocko bowed dramatically and answered, "Lady Chrysta! You are an irreplaceable person indeed!"

Wren, Renia, and Alya rushed out to join the reunion, hugging their friends tightly.

JD laughed as Wren held onto him with a fierce grip, his excitement palpable. "You can let go now, Wren!"

"But I don't want to!" Wren exclaimed, grinning from ear to ear. "I'm just so damn happy you're all back!"

Marie appeared from around the corner, her eyes wide with joy as she was immediately embraced by Alya and Renia. She returned their affection with a warm smile.

"We're all just...so glad you all made it back safely!" Renia stated earnestly, tears glistening in her eyes.

"Alya is overjoyed! Alya missed everybody!" Alya joined in, her voice chipper and sweet as she hugged each person's leg.

With a playful smirk, Marie remarked, "It seems you all haven't quite forgotten about us yet!"

Edgar arrived with his loyal Storm Riders in tow, greeted by Wren's tight embrace. "Wren! This is...a pleasant surprise," Edgar stated happily. "I've missed you too, buddy."

As more and more soldiers broke from formation to reunite with their loved ones, Arlan couldn't help but feel a sharp pain in his heart for those who didn't make it back alive. He could see families crying in sorrow, and it weighed heavily on him. But Emmeline squeezed his hand tighter, offering comfort.

"You did your best," she whispered. "And there would have been even more grieving families if it weren't for you."

"I know...but it still hurts deeply," Arlan admitted with a heavy sigh.

A young elven male rode up on his horse, followed by a figure leaping from behind the saddle.

"Big bro Arlan!" Onas yelled as he landed in Arlan's arms.

"Holy shit," Arlan exclaimed in surprise. "You've...you've grown, Onas!"

"Yeah, he's no longer that little boy from Auron," Jovann remarked as he dismounted his horse and greeted everyone. "I'm so glad you're all back, safe and sound. I was starting to wonder what I should do with all this luxurious food and wine I brought from the capital."

"You act like you didn't know we were coming," Arlan called out Jovann.

"Well...you're not the only one with a few Umbras you know," Jovann admitted with a wink.

A hooded figure appeared, kneeling before Arlan and Jovann. "Master Arlan and Sir Jovann, I am overjoyed that we have returned safely."

"Nighty!" Onas and Alya both cried out as they ran to embrace Nightingale's legs. But the Umbra leader remained unmoved, her legs strong and steady.

The atmosphere was electric as Lem and Erin joined in on the festivities, their hearts bursting with joy and relief as they dismissed the Vanguard. The sounds of laughter and music filled the air, a stark contrast to the tense battles they had just endured.

"Erin, we've done it... We're finally home!" cried out Lem, his voice echoing through the crowd.

"That we did, Lem... That we did," agreed Erin with a wide smile, his eyes scanning the faces around him.

A young girl, no more than twelve years old, walked up to Erin and threw her arms around him in a tight hug. Erin's eyes welled up with tears as he embraced her.

"I'm so glad you came back, Erin. Trent would've been so proud," said the young girl, her voice filled with genuine happiness.

"Lanie... Your brother, Trent... He was with me throughout the war and... I saw a glimpse of him," replied Erin, his voice trembling with emotion.

Lem watched the touching scene before him with a heavy heart. He looked up at the sky and thought of his own close friend, Dimitri, who had lost his life in the war.

Fiala and Yanie were enveloped in a warm, joyful reunion with Wren, Renia, Jovann, and Jocko. They were quickly surrounded by embraces, laughter, and exclamations of surprise. The air was filled with the sound of their excited chatter and the comforting scent of familiarity.

As the group continued to rejoice in their reunion, Fiala couldn't contain her excitement as she spotted Jovann's wagons loaded with luxurious food and wine. She playfully nudged him and said, "Well, well, Jovann, it seems you've outdone yourself this time. Did you really think we'd return without an appetite?"

Jovann chuckled and replied, "Fiala, my dear, I always have faith in your insatiable appetite. I made sure not to disappoint."

Renia joined in the banter, grinning mischievously. "Oh, is there a secret feast you've been planning?"

"It wouldn't be a secret if I spilled all the details now, would it?" Jovann winked at Renia and continued, "But let's just say that tonight, we'll feast like never before!"

Yanie chimed in, claiming proudly, "Jovann and I have mastered the art of hosting magnificent feasts. It's a natural talent for us, elves."

As the group chatted and enjoyed each other's company, Arlan climbed onto Jovann's wagon and called for their attention. "My friends! Listen to me!" he exclaimed, "Today marks a joyous occasion, as the Banner of the Claw has finally returned. Our long and difficult war has come to an end... but not without our victory over the rebels a month ago. We can now revel in the return of peace to our lands. The bravery of the Banner of the Claw is commendable, but let us also recognize the courage shown by all of you here in Galmora. And to celebrate, we have a feast tonight, courtesy of the Eastvale Trade Company!"

The crowd erupted into a loud cheer at the news.

 

Despite the cold winter, the celebration of the Banner of the Claw's return was well underway with the help of the heat disks installed by Arlan and the Galmora Ministry.

As the crowd continued to cheer, Fiala turned to Jovann with a mischievous grin. "Well, it seems we have even more reason to celebrate tonight, Jovann. Your feast will be the talk of Galmora!"

Jovann laughed heartily. "Indeed, Fiala! I've gathered the finest dishes and wines from all corners of the realm. Our return home calls for a grand feast to honor our victory."

Renia joined in, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "I can't wait to taste your famous roast boar, Jovann. It's been far too long since I've had a proper feast."

Jocko, always one to enjoy good food, chimed in with a wide grin. "Ah, Jovann's roast boar... The mere thought of it makes my mouth water. I hope you've saved a portion for me!"

As the anticipation for the feast grew, Lem couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. He wanted to join in on the excitement, but his thoughts kept drifting back to Dimitri, his fallen friend. Feeling a hand on his shoulder, Lem turned to see Wren standing beside him, a sympathetic smile on her face.

"Wren," Lem began with a heavy sigh, "I can't help but think about Dimitri. He should be here with us, celebrating this victory."

Wren's eyes softened as she nodded in understanding. "I know, Lem. We all miss him dearly. But let's not forget that he fought bravely for our cause. Tonight, let's raise our glasses and toast to his memory."

Lem nodded gratefully, appreciating Wren's words of comfort. As they turned their attention back to the lively chatter around them, Fiala's voice rang out above the rest.

"Jovann, you must tell us more about these fine dishes and wines you've gathered!" Fiala exclaimed with a teasing smile. "Don't keep us in suspense!"

Jovann chuckled and raised an eyebrow playfully. "Ah, Fiala, always impatient when it comes to food. Well, let me give you a taste of what awaits you tonight. There will be succulent roasted venison from the southern fields near Oreta along with trout sourced from Auron's Emerald Lake."

Fiala's eyes widened in delight as she interrupted excitedly. "And what about the wines? Any special ones you've brought?"

Jovann smirked mischievously. "Ah, yes! I've managed to acquire some rare vintage elixirs from the Free Cities of Yura. The flavors will transport you to another realm!"

Renia joined in on the conversation, her curiosity piqued. "What about desserts, Jovann? You haven't forgotten about those, have you?"

Jovann winked at Renia, a glimmer of excitement in his eyes as he motioned for Onas to step forth. "Oh, no! I've prepared a selection of delectable sweets from the renowned pastry shops of Valkora. We'll have chocolate truffles that melt in your mouth and apple tarts with a flaky crust that will make you weak in the knees."

As the group listened intently to Jovann's mouthwatering descriptions, Jocko couldn't contain his enthusiasm any longer. He interjected with a wide grin, "Jovann, my friend, you've truly outdone yourself this time! I can already taste the feast in my mind!"

With the excitement building in Jocko's voice, Arlan's four maids, Jeanette, Helga, Maria, and Lynn, directed the other servants to set up the tables in the grand banquet hall. They meticulously arranged fine linens and polished silverware on each table, ensuring that everything was perfect for the feast that awaited them.

Jeanette carefully placed elegant crystal goblets at each setting, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. Helga arranged exquisite floral centerpieces, carefully selecting vibrant blooms that matched the festive atmosphere. Maria positioned delicate porcelain plates, each adorned with a golden trim, while Lynn artfully folded crisp white napkins into intricate designs.

Their movements were swift and synchronized. The room buzzed with activity as the servants scurried to complete their tasks. The flickering candlelight cast a warm glow on the preparations, adding an enchanting ambiance to the air.

As they worked, the maids exchanged knowing glances, their hearts filled with a mixture of excitement and pride. They understood the magnitude of this occasion - it was not just a feast to celebrate a victory but also an opportunity to honor the Banner of the Claw's fallen heroes.

The aroma of roasted boar wafted through the hall as Arlan's loyal subjects filed into their designated seats. The room filled with laughter and animated conversation as old friends reconnected and new alliances were formed.

As Jovann emerged from the kitchen with a team of sous chefs, carrying platters piled high with mouthwatering dishes, a hush fell over the room. His eyes gleamed with satisfaction as he surveyed his culinary creations one last time before presenting them to his eagerly awaiting guests.

The courtyard was filled with a joyous atmosphere as everyone plunged into the savory feast laid before them. Mouths watered as they indulged in Jovann's delectable dishes, savoring every bite of succulent meat and rich sauces.

JD couldn't help but exclaim, "Jovann, you really outdone yourself this time!"

As the night wore on, the mood shifted from celebratory to more somber as the guests shared tales of their fallen comrades. Stories of bravery and sacrifice were recounted, each one honoring the memory of those who had given their lives for their kingdom.

Tears were shed and embraces shared as they remembered their loved ones who would never return to them. But amidst the grief, there was also a sense of unity and strength among those gathered. They were reminded that though they may have lost some of their own, their kingdom still stood strong thanks to the bravery and sacrifices of these fallen heroes.

In between stories, music filled the air as talented musicians played lively tunes on harps and lyres. Some even took to dancing in the courtyard under the stars, celebrating life and its fleeting moments.

As midnight approached, Arlan stood up from his seat at the head table. "My friends," he began with a solemn tone that commanded everyone's attention. "I thank you all for joining me in this feast tonight. It is a bittersweet occasion - we celebrate our victory but also mourn our losses."

He paused for a moment before continuing, "Despite the rebellion being over, the Malum Incarnate is still out there. So... In order to combat this threat, I am now going to be replacing Dink Rorschach as the Grand Marshal of the Midland Armies until I ascend the throne as King of Midland. Dink Rorschach will now attend to the queen as Prime Minister."

Both surprise, excitement and grim thoughts filled the atmosphere. Everyone knew that the Malum Incarnate was a grave threat to the entirety of  Althea and with them being out there, anything was possible. But they were also overjoyed that Arlan was now the Grand Marshal of the Midland Armies.

JD stood up while raising a toast, "Arlan, with you at the helm of our armies, we have nothing to fear!"

"Aye! It's true," agreed Edgar as he raised his goblet, "General-I mean Grand Marshal! No one better than you to lead us to an age of peace. Roderic would've agreed."

"I'll never forget the sacrifices made for our freedom," Chrysta added, her voice steady and filled with determination. "With our newly acquired abilities though, we’ll be ready.”

Marie glanced around at the faces of those gathered, her expression one of resolve. "With my Lucifer’s Regalia, Chrysta’s Skadi Regalia, and JD’s Hurricane Regalia, we’ll be able to stand up to any adversary that is stupid enough to stand before us.”

Emmeline, her eyes shining with pride, took Arlan's hand. "And I, as your future queen, promise to stand by your side, to support you and our kingdom in the face of any danger. Together, we will build a legacy of peace and prosperity."

The crowd erupted into cheers, their voices echoing through the night, a testament to their unity and strength. The air was filled with a sense of purpose and determination, as if the very spirit of Midland had been invigorated by Arlan's announcement.

As the evening came to a close, the guests began to disperse, their hearts heavy with memories but also lightened by the hope of a brighter future. Arlan and his closest friends remained in the courtyard, their bonds strengthened by the trials they had faced together.

The group shared a moment of silent understanding, their resolve unspoken but palpable in the crisp night air. They were more than friends; they were a family, forged in the fires of adversity and united by a common purpose.

As they finally retired for the night, the stars above Galmora seemed to shine a little brighter, reflecting the unwavering spirit of those who had gathered in the courtyard. And in that moment, it was clear that while the road ahead might be fraught with challenges, they would face it together, as one.

The celebration in Galmora's courtyard was not just a feast; it was a declaration of their continued commitment to Midland and to each other. The night would be remembered as a testament to their resilience, their loyalty, and their unbreakable spirit.

As the Banner of the Claw reconvened in their homeland, a mix of somber strength and relieved hearts filled the air. Arlan, their leader, couldn't help but let a smile grace his lips as he observed the camaraderie and warmth that enveloped everyone. Yet, amidst the laughter and reunions, Arlan's gaze caught an unusual sight—ethereal figures seated quietly in chairs reserved for comrades who would never return.

He acknowledged these spectral guests with a respectful nod and a smile, receiving silent waves in return. It was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made, a bridge between the realms of the living and the lost.

Sophia's voice, a whisper in his mind, broke his contemplation. "My liege, a surge of mana and essence flows from your core, possibly stirred by your emotions. It seems to intertwine the Monarch’s Regalia with the latent Avens Power within you. Are you well?"

Arlan mentally reassured her, "Yes, Sophia. It's...just a momentary thing. Nothing to worry about for now."

Raising his glass in a silent toast to the departed, Arlan's eyes moved across the ghostly assembly. Roderic and his senior Hatchets engaged in a friendly arm wrestling match; Noah, Dimitri, and Trent shared a laugh with Erin and Lem over an impending prank; Hector and Iris, near a wine barrel, toasted to their liberation from House Kaiser's clutches; and a group of orphans, encircled around a woman with striking charcoal hair and piercing blue eyes, looked towards Arlan with smiles of gratitude.

As he drank his redberry wine, the spectral figures faded, leaving behind a sense of closure and a reminder of the enduring bonds forged in battle.