Life Afterward

Years passed since William's sacrifice. El-Mahra, once on the brink of destruction, now stood strong, more resilient than ever. Yet, in Khadija and Alya’s hearts, there was an emptiness that nothing could fill—not even the victory over the enemies who had once threatened their world.

Khadija stood on the palace balcony, gazing out at the peaceful city below. The Luminaris crystal, which once radiated immense power, now functioned more steadily and with full control. The decision made after William’s death—to use the Luminaris power wisely—had proven to be a brilliant one. Yet, in Khadija's heart, the sense of loss overshadowed even their victory.

"Alya," Khadija called, her voice soft but laden with meaning. Alya, who had been in the next room, stepped out onto the balcony, her eyes filled with curiosity.

"What’s on your mind?" Alya asked, joining Khadija at her side.

Khadija gave a faint smile. "I was thinking about William. Everything changed since he came into our lives... what he did for all of us."

Alya nodded, her sharp eyes recalling the struggles they’d faced. "He was a true warrior. I never thought we’d get this far without him."

Khadija looked down, her fingers gripping the balcony railing tightly. "I know we must move on, but how can I forget his sacrifice? All of this... because of him."

There was a brief silence, only the gentle sound of water flowing from the palace pool beneath them filling the air. Alya looked up at the darkening sky, as though contemplating the future.

"William knew what he was doing. He didn’t hesitate to give himself up for the greater good," Alya said with confidence. "And I believe he wanted us to live the freedom he fought for."

Khadija nodded slowly, her gaze fixed on the horizon, where the now peaceful city of El-Mahra lay. But in her eyes, the shadow of William remained, reminding her of the past filled with conflict and sacrifice.

---

Far beyond El-Mahra, the once-hostile kingdom was undergoing its own transformation. The army that had once been led by the enemy leader was now retreating to its origins, acknowledging their defeat, and trying to rebuild their world, ravaged by ambition and greed.

However, one thing remained unchanged: the story of William Greaves. His name had become a legend, told across the continents. His sacrifice not only saved El-Mahra but also taught a valuable lesson to those who still fought to preserve peace.

The people of El-Mahra built a beautiful monument in the city center, a reminder of the sacrifice made by an outsider who had become their hero. Khadija stood there during the monument’s unveiling, standing tall, her eyes glistening with emotion. Alya stood beside her, sharing in the profound silence.

"For William Greaves," Khadija spoke, her voice trembling. "He was not just a traveler. He was one of us."

Alya gazed at the monument with deep respect, her eyes tracing the carved image of William, his face filled with bravery. "He will always be here," she said, pointing to their hearts. "In our hearts."

Khadija nodded. "And in the history of El-Mahra."

They both stood there, silent, letting time pass, remembering William’s sacrifice. Their world would never be the same, and though the loss was heavy, they knew they had to continue moving forward. Armed with the courage William had left behind, they both pressed on in the journey they had chosen—to ensure that the peace they had fought for would endure.

In the heart of El-Mahra, a new life began. And the name William Greaves would forever be remembered, not only as a hero but as a symbol of sacrifice, courage, and love without limits.

---

Khadija and Alya walked side by side along the streets of the now vibrant and hopeful city. Though their hearts still ached, they knew the path they now walked was one to ensure that the world they had fought so hard to protect would remain strong, forever.

Under the clear sky, they stepped into the future, carrying with them the memory of William and all that he had sacrificed. A better, safer world, full of new hope, had opened before them.