Lao-Shan Lung had been overpowered by the humans' combined might. Its head was offset by the hunters in front whilst the rest pulled to its left flank, bending its long neck towards the other path of the valley. Its gargantuan body stumbled and crashed on the ground, sending piles of debris flying.
The silence that followed was deafening as all the humans in Area Four watched the dragon's unmoving body. The moment that lasted a few seconds felt awfully long, raising the tension.
The elder dragon's eyes flickered and opened wide, moving its colossal body and stood up again. Each motion felt heavy and each stomp to balance itself shook the earth. Now, its body was facing away from Gate Four and a path towards the west laid bare before it.
Lao-Shan Lung turned its head around, staring directly at the collection of humans who stood up against it. Their breathing was laboured, covered in dirt, blood, tears and sweat, and yet, they maintained their stance, gripping tightly onto their weapons that they aimed at their adversary.
After a long, silent stare that seemed to stretch for eternity, Lao-Shan Lung moved its head back and began making its way towards the west. The dragon had changed its trajectory away from the capital; Elsyrium had been successfully defended.
"It is... over..." Tears ran along Canopus's face, clenching his fist in exultation as he witnessed the dragon moving further away. "WE ARE VICTORIOUS!"
"""WHHOOOAAAAHHHHH!!!"""
The lives of their comrades, the blood that flowed, the sweat they poured and the tears they shed, all led to the triumphant cheers of overcoming the seemingly unstoppable force of nature. The outpouring of catharsis took many forms: some hugged each other while others cried for surviving, priests and priestesses knelt in prayers, some sat or laid on the ground after exhaustion caught up to them.
Canopus remained on his feet, overlooking the entire crowd of jubilant people and flashed a satisfied, toothy smile to the heaven. He opened a box and took out an explosive ball and launched it high up to the sky with a ballista erected within the gathering hub. The ball exploded, blooming into a beautiful green flower pattern that announced their triumph to Elsyrium.
"Father... How did you get here...?" Marion sat beside Marciano who collapsed on the ground in exhaustion. "Travelling from the Savion Marquisate in the north all the way to the capital... It must have been exhausting..."
"Hah! That much is expected! Especially when I got the news of the capital in danger and that my reckless daughter is participating in the operation!"
"Everybody is participating, father!" Leaning back, Marion settled her body on the ground beside her father. "But still, thank you for saving me..."
Rosa slowly walked towards the resting parent and child. "I, Rosa Spina Charme, greet the Marquis of Savion."
"Bahaha! Save the curtsy! I am just a fellow companion here, not the Marquis!" Marciano sat up, smiling at the lady who, despite being battered from exhaustion, displayed a sense of elegance with her bow. "But still, it is great to see you all grown up. It has been more than six years since our last meeting."
"Indeed, it has been that long. I still remember seeing the gallant figure of the Marquis and your timely entrance this time is reminding me of that. It is truly a work of art, befitting of the moniker 'Titan of Savion'."
"Gahaha! You are still the same! Putting beauty and elegance above everything else! My son, Mani, must have caught your eyes at that moment when you met each other!"
"Absolutely! The pinnacle of beauty and elegance! That is when I have decided to be his wife, to be the perfect partner for him! I decided to greet every member of the Savion Marquisate House and leave a wonderful, unforgettable impression! And it seems to work well!"
"How could we forget that overly flashy greetings! Right, Mari?"
"..." Marion slowly wandered her gaze away, cold sweat running.
"Lady Marion? Are you telling me that..." Rosa's knees began to tremble,
Aria, who was nearby and had been listening to the entire conversation, remembered a string of conversation back when they were in Savion Marquisate. "Hmmm, Marion, I think I remember you saying that you have not met your brother's fiancée or something."
"Kuhak!" Rosa covered her mouth, having coughed up some blood from the revelation.
"It cannot be helped! I was eight or seven at the time! And all that was in my mind at the time was how magnificent the royal knights were! Of course I forgot about lady Rosa!"
"Guuahhkkk!" More damage had been dealt to Rosa by Marion than the elder dragon had.
Aria reeled back from the overblown comedic show on display, regretting her passing remark that flowed out from her memory.
At the corner of her eyes, Aria spotted Scarlet and Alfred hugging. Both appeared ragged, but their expressions painted a warm sense of comfort for being able to feel each other's touch after such a menacing encounter. The scene brought a smile to her face as she also noticed Alfonse watching the pair in silence nearby, wearing a gentle grin tinged with quiet amusement.
"So, what will be the next step?" Being as jaded as Aria, Alfina rested her legs and settled beside her sister. "If more of such behemoth popped out within the empire, or the entire continent..."
"Sigh, just take a break from that thought." Aria took in a deep breath, savouring the fresh air of life that many had lost the privilege to. "Let us bask in the afterglow of victory for a while longer. Look, even the supreme commander is partaking in the festivity."
Canopus, having made his way down from the gathering hub, pulled Lilium in a tight embrace, stroking her golden hair. Lilium as well, dropped her elegant etiquette and returned the embrace, cracking her mask as she cried from the warm touch of her older brother.
"Aria, Alfina."
"Father..."
Elrion got off his horse and knelt beside his daughters. "I... I am proud of you. To both of you. And... I am thankful that you two are alive."
Both Aria and Alfina widened their eyes, but remained silent. For a moment, the familial bond that had died out began to smoulder again.
"After this, there will be long parades of celebration and mourning. There will also be discussion about the future with the entire council of ministry and nobility. I hope you two are ready for that."
"Alfina was saying the same thing you know... We are indeed a cut from the same cloth, but still, at least I have the decency not to ruin the atmosphere from blurting out my worries."
"For some reason, that statement makes me irate." Alfina rested her cheek on her palm, looking away from Aria.
"Catherine!"
"Mum!"
Both Astrea and Catherine got into a tight hug, feeling the warmth of life from each other.
"You did well, I'm sure that both Caroline and your father, watching from above, feel extremely proud. And I'm glad that you are still alive."
"Mom... I... I swear that I will surpass my sister, and take down that black beast. I will definitely grow stronger, so please, watch over me too, mother."
"I will... I will cook up your favourite meal, as a small celebration."
"You're the best."
Birds started to fly into the valley while smaller critters scuttled through crevices and onto the surface. Fishes started to swim merrily along the stream, feeding off the algae and insects unfortunate enough to enter the water. The ecosystem was reviving itself.
Knights and logistic teams from Elsyrium were dispatched to assist the exhausted frontliners. Words of congratulation and gratitude were given to those who had fought hard. They were given their well-earned rest, but the void left by those who had perished served as a stark reminder of the fragility of life. The voices of those who were gone could no longer echo within the ears of their loved ones.
Corpses of the fallen were recovered and laid out in the open field of Area Three. The mangled appearances churned the stomach of many while also igniting the fury in their hearts. Canopus led the grieving ceremony and prayer, pleading to their Lord to allow their deceased comrades to ascend to heaven and be granted their place amongst the stars.
A large wooden structure was erected and the corpses were respectfully laid within the pyre. As the prayers reached the end, a torch was given by a priest to Canopus, who immediately lit a corner of the wooden frame. The fire spread swiftly, engulfing the bodies of the fallen and freeing their souls from the shackles of mortality into the embrace of heaven.
The sun had dipped beyond the horizon as the entire battalion marched back to their home. The cries of jubilation from the citizens were filled with dazzling energy despite the dark of the night. Many were chanting the names of the crown prince and the commanders while some shouted in reverence to the 'Blessed One' or the 'Chosen One', including those who had awakened the mark of Angelos.
Canopus stood atop a platform of an open plaza and faced his proud cheering citizens. "To all my brave warriors, I thank you for your bravery! Your unwavering resolve is what led us to repel a legendary dragon, thus saving the capital! We may have lost a number of our peers, but their lives are not in vain! Their will, their names, their memories, continue to live through us!"
Many of those present at the plaza wore a pained expression, but maintained their gaze with pride.
"All of you exemplified the true meaning of being a proud citizen of the glorious Coronamars Empire! And I am so proud of you!" Wave of cheers resounded, praising and wishing good health upon Canopus. "Now that it is over, all I ask of you all, is to take a well-deserved rest! Thank you!"
The capital spent the entire night in festivities.
***
"Father. We have successfully repelled the elder dragon."
"Canopus, Lilium, there is no need for the two of you to be formal with me. I stand here as a father, not as an emperor." Sirius poured two glasses of honey wine and handed them to both of his children who had gotten clean before presenting themselves in the royal dining hall. Both Canopus and Lilium enjoyed the aroma of the sweet nectar before emptying their respective glasses. "Good work. Now then, please enjoy the food, the chefs have put in their utmost efforts to prepare a feast for the heroes."
"I too, am proud of the both of you." An elegant and beautiful lady walked towards them. "As an empress, there is no greater joy than seeing my children achieving success, but as a mother, there is no greater relief to see my children come back alive."
"Come, my wife and children, for the food will get cold." Motioning to the large table with a lavish spread, Sirius took the hand of his partner, the empress of Coronamars Empire, Amaryllis Sekhmet Tyr Mars, to her seat. He pulled out the chair and helped his wife into her seat while pushing it back in, a move that would normally be reserved to a servant. "Now then, let us pray before enjoying the meal, as a family."
***
"I knew that you would still be alive. My best friend is never a fragile man." Arne slapped Alfonse's back while dragging him into the Ponterim estate.
"Heh, but it was close call. I think I saw my life flashes before my eyes more times than I can remember." Turning his head back slightly, he faced his younger brother and his lover. "But still, my little brother here is quite creative, fashioning a hooking rope that saved us a few times. Even you, Arne, that dracophage bugs do wonders to that beast. Miss Scarlet is also a real hero, being amongst the first to break that dragon's shell."
"Thank you, brother. My brain just came up with it on the spot after seeing Scarlet in danger."
"Ugh, Alfred, that's embarrassing..."
"Hahaha, a pair of lovebirds indeed! Come on in, let us get all of you clean and refresh! The chefs have cooked up a storm of delightful dishes for the heroes!" Both Arne and Alfonse made their way deeper into the mansion, looking forward to shed off the grime and dirt.
"Energetic as always. Come on Scarlet, let us make our way in. Hmm?" Alfred's right hand was tugged by Scarlet, telling him to wait. "Scarlet?"
"I... I haven't given you my thanks for saving me during that moment."
"Ahaha, there is no need for that. I only did what I should be doing. Is that not what partners are for? To be there for each other."
"I know, but still, I owe you one. So here..." Scarlet pulled Alfred's face closer to hers and kissed him softly on the lips. Time felt slower as they locked their lips together before parting slowly. They affectionately gazed into each other's eyes, their faces flushed red over the passionate kiss. "Thank you, Alfred. Thank you for saving me and being there for me."
"With pleasure, my beloved lady."
***
"This is great mom!" Catherine enjoyed eating her fill of several minced meat patties with honey glaze. "The aroma of the herbs and the softness of the meat mixed with bread and milk... And to top it off, this sweet sauce... I'm thankful to be your daughter."
"Hahaha, eat as much as you want. You have earned it." Enjoying a shared meal with her daughter, Astrea smiled softly and looked out of the window into the star-studded sky. "Caroline, Raphael, please continue watching over her."
***
"Haa... I am melting." Rosa soaked her tired body into the warm water sprinkled with various scented flowers. Her maids stood nearby to assist in anything she desired. "Please tell the kitchen to prepare a bottle of honey mead and a plate of sweet snack to go with it."
"Understood, my lady." With a gentle bow, a maid exited the bathroom.
"Still... to think that Marion actually forgot about me... Well, at least she remembered the Charme House."
"Milady, the honey mead and snack have arrived."
"Excellent. Bring some to father as well." Sipping her glass of sweet alcohol, Rosa leaned back and enjoyed the view of the night sky. She picked up a piece of candied and spiced berry and raised it up. The sheen from the glaze shone like a star. "For you, my dear sister."
***
"Father, please stop, I have had enough of that liquor..."
"Nonsense! You are my daughter and enjoying alcohol practically runs in our family! Even Milan held her drink better than I do!" Marciano continued pouring more whiskey into his daughter's cup, urging her to drink it in one shot.
"I am not my mother! I am Marion!" Marion shed a drop of tear as she had to finished the strong drink that burned her throat with every gulp.
"Then this will serve as your training! A Savion must be able to hold their liquor!" Pouring another cup for Marion, Marciano beamed as he also enjoyed his own cup of liquor. The servants of the Savion estate in the capital wore a wry smile, concerned over Marion's pitiful appearance, but they also gazed at them warmly.
***
"Aria, please eat with more decorum."
"I am eating with the proper etiquette."
"No, you are not. You are eating with mannerism that is common in Fjall region, but we are in the capital, in Lacus region. Perhaps you should see and learn from me."
"I thought that all the table manners from all the different regions of the Empire are accepted."
"And do you think that is a good excuse not to learn the local mannerism?"
"Ugh, alright, fine... show me the proper way, Alfina."
"Excellent choice, but poor motivation."
"Are you looking for a fight...?" Aria's face distorted as she glared at Alfina, clearly irritated, but was suppressing it.
Elrion silently watched the exchanges between his daughters while consuming his bowl of warm fish soup, following the proper way of dipping his spoon with the far-side and drinking from the near-side. He felt rather strange looking at the childish bickers, but he understood that the feeling he was experiencing might be something he had lost many years ago. A small twitch lifted the edges of his mouth, thawing his heart that had been frozen for a long time.
***
Winter came in full swing over the capital. The populace celebrated the eve and welcomed the new year with glee as the excitement over the victory of the siege operation had yet to fade. Many went to the churches for prayers, wishing for better harvest and safety for the incoming year.
Families opened the year with a communal feast where they gathered in the many plazas to share their harvest and wood. With the exception of babies, every able-bodied humans contributed to the preparations. Some chopped up and lighted up the firewood while others washed and cooked the ingredients. Certified ale-houses opened their doors to neighbours and friends, often giving out free cups of home-brewed ales or at massive discount.
Numerous noble houses opened up their estates for charity, providing meals to the orphans and the poor. They let their servants and workers enjoyed the day to dine with their loved ones, often inviting them to the estate halls for a communal meal. Several noble families even joined in on the festivities with their employees, toasting with cups of chilled ale and scooping from the same pots of stew.
As the day came to an end, the merry atmosphere slowly died down, transitioning back to their normal life the very next day as they would have to endure another two months of winter.
The Great Lake of Cor Stella froze over for about a month, as with the many rivers and canals throughout the capital. The economic activities dwindled over the winter, but some fishermen still went out to catch fishes by boring holes through the thick ice. Workers would maintain the vast network of aqueduct in order to ensure that water would still flow to every corner of the city. Lumberjacks would venture out of the city into nearby forest to chop and gather woods.
Throughout the city, families survived mostly on their stocked up food, and with nothing but time on their hands, the few artistic residents dabbled in their respective crafts. They would weave decorated baskets with dried up vines and grasses. Others would carve out small statues or households crockeries out of wood. Crocheting was also a popular activities among many households.
The period of fallow flew by in a blink of an eye. Ice thawed and water began to flow, signaling that the end of winter was near and that their God, Lord Flare, would bestow warmth upon the land. Activities began to resume as goods travelled all over the city. Businesses welcomed their first customer and the plazas sprouted up temporary booths that sold various items, including the products that the artists had crafted over the winter. Theatric plays were performed, mostly praising the miracles of the sun, the embodiment of their God, that brought an end to the cold.
As spring inched closer, a small celebration was held in the Sultier estate.
"Happy birthday, Aria!" Marion gave Aria a big hug and presented her with a small jar of honey.
"Thanks, Marion."
"You are the last to arrive, please be more mindful of your tardiness." Scarlet crossed her hands while giving out a sigh. "But nevertheless, you are technically on time, barely on time."
"Hahaha, as long as everybody join in the party, I do not mind at all." Aria took Marion's hand and led her in to the Sultier House mansion and into a dining hall. Numerous dishes were displayed and many guests, consisting of those who knew or had personally fought together with Aria, were merrily chatting with each others.
"Woah! Sweets!" Taking a piece of dried berry coated in honey, Marion enjoyed the tartness and sweetness spreading within her mouth. "Ahh... This is the kind of thing I would rather have than alcohol..."
"... You say that, but didn't you beat your father in drinking contest." Scarlet passed a cup of honey mead to Marion. "You have a talent for it, so you should train your tolerance even more."
"This honey mead is fine since it is sweeter than it is sour or bitter. And that is not a skill I want to get better at... In fact, I am late because father invited me for another drinking session."
Aria scooped out a bowl of stew and gave it to Marion. "So that is why the marquis is unable to make it today: Hungover."
"Yeah... I am rather surprised that I am fine after finishing half a barrel of that hard liquor."
"Woah... half a barrel is actually terrifying... But well, I am glad that you are fine. Here, have more sweets."
"Thanks. The empire has a tradition of consuming something sweet when spring is near, but in the Savion House, the sweets consist of mostly alcohol... Even the cakes are imbibed with liquor..."
The celebration continued from evening all the way into the night. Rosa chatted with Lilium, Alfina, Marion and Elrion, showcasing her beautiful mannerism which earned her a blank stare from the three and a wry smile from Marion. Alfonse teased both Alfred and Scarlet who were apparently flirting in the corner. Catherine stuffed herself with the variety of snacks that she could rarely procure, earning her a lecture from Astrea.
Aria watched the entire brigade of people going through their usual machination and smiled. "Mother, you may left me, and the entire family, way too early. That last few years you had spent with me may be your final goodbye, but I am now surrounded by friends. Even if my relationship with father and sister is not perfect, I can feel that we are taking a small step closer in mending that broken pieces."
With a final gulp, Aria emptied her cup of honey mead and walked towards the crowd.