Celebration in the Grand Hall

As the celebrations settled into a more relaxed atmosphere within the grand throne room, Enuma’s voice echoed softly in Terran’s mind, providing a deeper backstory.

Enuma recited, "Emperor Solja is more than just a ruler. He’s a figure of immense influence—one of the pillars of the Hero Party. His support for your father, Herro, was pivotal during the hero party’s most critical moments. Without him, much of what your father accomplished might never have come to pass."

I asked, "He was such a powerful warrior?"

Enuma elaborated, "The emperor’s power is both political and spiritual; his word can sway kingdoms, and his judgment is rarely questioned. He was just a prince back then, but he was a strong warrior but had more important. He had charisma and charm and backed your father."

I absorbed the information, a newfound respect forming in his thoughts. I looked at the emperor with a mix of reverence and wariness, realizing just how much my future was entangled with this figure’s influence.

Suddenly, feeling emboldened by the history and the weight of his lineage, I straightened and, with a grin, called out, “Esteemed Emperor, please help me with something.”

Solja put on a wide smile and said, "Boy, you are my god-son, and son-in-law. You can be informal and call me uncle. Please continue, what is that I can help with?" 

I hesitated and continued. "Um, uncle is you may. I set myself a goal to understand my father better. I failed which led to our public fallout." Hinting at the episode of the Graduation Commemorative Match tournament. With a regretful smile, "I came to a conclusion, I will learn about my father beyond the legacy of the Great Hero." 

The Emperor gave a hearty laugh that echoed in the Grand Hall. After calming down, and Herro was seen blushing and rubbing the back of his head full of anxiety. Emperor Solja then said, "Is that all? I think all questions I had before, I can fill in the blanks on my own now." and then he turned to the Herro and said, "Great Knight-Captain, seems that your emotions that you wear on your face fail to be recognized by your kin. Probably because he is so similar and yet not smart as Akari was to understand you."

I heard the emperor mock my intelligence, and I was not dissuaded. But I burned at the idea of being similarly outspoken as my father. That got to me, and my pride sparked. "Uncle, I guess I am too much like both my parents to know any better. I am capable of hard work and endless effort to become the man I am today. I come today with my vulnerabilities and failures of my past for all to see. Fully ready to learn from my past mistakes. If the emperor’s support is so vital, then I’d better make sure I don’t mess this up, or I’ll be the one to fall flat on my face in front of such greatness!”

The room fell silent for a moment before Uriko burst into soft laughter, shaking her head. “Oh, Terran,” she teased, mockingly imitating him in a high-pitched voice, “Didn’t think you had it in you to be witty, but here you are—trying to be clever.”

Herro rolled his eyes, but a genuine smile crept onto his face. “What can I say? I guess I tried to work hard on occasion." 

Uriko grinned and leaned in slightly to me. “You may not always be the wittiest, but you’re definitely the warmest. And that’s what matters most.”

The others chuckled, and the mood grew lighter, yet beneath the humor, there was a shared understanding—the bonds of family, duty, and destiny weaving them closer together in the intricate dance of power and promises.

Emperor Solja said aloud, "The Great Hero definitely sacrificed a lot. Clearly, he sacrificed much for my kingdom and neglected his family. Hard work and endless effort were written in a dictionary. There would be a picture of your father, Herro, in that dictionary. To explain, no one worked harder, none of us in the Hero Party was every able to arrive first and leave last. Only the Great Hero worked himself to the bone to be the best warrior of all the land. He lacks wit and ability to communicate but makes up for it with heart. I believe that answers your question young son-in-law."

I was feeling the strength of my roots and the warmth of those around me, realized that sometimes, what made a man truly great wasn’t just wit or strength, but the courage to stand true amidst the chaos.

As the celebration in the throne room continued, a quiet moment settled over me. Watching my father’s proud and confident demeanor, I felt a new understanding bloom within me. My father had always been the most relentless of overachievers—pushing himself through sweat and tears, driven by an unwavering sense of duty and love for his nation and family. 

 That hard-earned strength and perseverance now resonated deeply with Terran, giving him a renewed sense of purpose. He took a deep breath, letting the realization settle, and vowed silently to carry that legacy forward. His father’s sacrifices, his sacrifices—everything they’d endured—was the foundation of his own path.

The celebration of Uriko and Terran’s union was in full swing, with noble families and heroes alike coming to pay their respects and offer their congratulations. The room buzzed with joy and anticipation.

Princess Uriko Anadine, the future Empress of the Auron Empire, stood tall and graceful, her face radiant with confidence and hope. Her role as the true successor to become the next Empress was clear—her strength and leadership shaping the realm’s future. Beside her, Terran Kamina, the future King, exuded quiet resolve, his humble yet proud demeanor earning admiration from all present.

One by one, the hero party members arrived to congratulate the newly engaged couple.

Sword Saint Reinhard Payne, a towering figure clad in gleaming armor, stepped forward with a broad smile, offering his hearty congratulations. “A fine union,” he said with a deep nod. “May your strength and unity bring stability to our realm.”

Next was Albus Medary, the master mage, who approached with a warm smile. "Uriko and Terran, you both look splendid and capable." He clasped Poh’s shoulder and nodded approvingly. “Poh, I see great growth in you. Your progress is promising—keep honing your craft. The future belongs to those who dare to push beyond their limits.”

Enuma couldn't keep silent any longer. Raging in my ear, "A bunch of heroes? More like cheats! They know they couldn't best me." and I replied, "quiet, now is bad time."

Then, with a calm and measured stride, came Eldrin—the legendary hunter, an elven male said to be over 500 years old. His dark silver hair and piercing eyes carried an air of quiet authority. He bowed lightly before Terran, offering a gentle smile.

“Congratulations, Uriko and Terran,” Eldrin said softly, his voice smooth and pleasant. “You’ve come a long way, and I see much potential in you.” Nothing in his demeanor indicated any dark dealings or illicit alliances. His words were sincere, his tone respectful. It was clear he was a man of honor, a true hunter—free from the shadows that sometimes clouded others with age and experience.

The room filled with warmth and respect, the bonds of friendship and alliance reaffirmed. As the celebration continued, Terran felt the weight of history and hope settle comfortably in his chest. 

Enuma smirked, "This goody two shoes... quite the spectacle if you have his attention."

The mystery continues to gnaw at my thoughts.