Oliver's mind gradually shifts from his nostalgic recollection of the grassland to the present surroundings. He finds himself in a bustling scene, surrounded by towering four-story buildings that enclose a vast courtyard. The distant sound of carriages passes through the streets, reminiscent of an orderly march.

     Taking his place in front of his seat, Oliver glances to his left and sees Gregory and Edgar. He looks past them and spots his adoptive father, Frederick, standing at the far end of his left side, adding a new presence to the group. Looking to his right side, Oliver sees Sophia, Sarrah and Bethany.

     Oliver maintains his signature attire—a sleek black suit with a vibrant green waistcoat and trousers. Gregory adheres to his customary formal black ensemble, donning a top hat. Frederick presents himself in a black coat over a shirt and ruffled cravat tie, finished with a dark blue vest, while Edgar appears in his usual attire, wearing a smokey shirt and breeches.

     Sophia wears her pistachio-green dress again, and her outfit glints like jade under the sunlight. Sarrah chooses her usual beige outfit, completing her look with a bonnet that matches Sophia's. Meanwhile, Bethany puts on her dark golden gown accentuated by a white sash cinched at her waist.

     Everyone settled into their seats. Behind Oliver, a sea of occupied wooden chairs stretches out, forming an expansive audience eagerly awaiting the upcoming events. Positioned prominently in front of them, a stage with a raised platform and a poised lectern stands.

     Trees cover the surroundings as their branches sway with showering foliage, creating an enchanting ambience that beautifully complements the awe-inspiring architecture of the surrounding buildings. The sun climbs higher. Then, the gentle breeze blows, passing across the land.

     Sir Novelle, dressed in a formal black suit and sporting an elegant top hat, ascends the stage. His boots thud against the wooden planks as he climbs the steps. Moving towards the centre front of the stage, Sir Novelle clears his throat while adjusting his tie.

     Taking a moment to breathe through his nose, Sir Novelle stands before the slender lectern. He rests his hands on his back. Then, he speaks as his voice fills every corner in the courtyard.

"Ladies and gentlemen, gathered here on this late July day in the year eighteen twenty, I, as the mayor of Asbranne, stand before you to pay tribute to the valiant souls we tragically lost. Today, we gather to honour the memory of those brave men and women who selflessly volunteered their lives in the face of the Pyrovoidians. It is because of their tenacious dedication that our Defender of Asbranne, with his allies, can continue their relentless fight against these ruthless beasts. For months, our city has been besieged by these monstrous creatures, claiming the lives of our dear friends and even a member of our own family, our cherished loved ones. Today, we raise our voices to salute these warriors of unyielding courage, whose very souls were laid to rest upon the battlefield in their courageous battle against the Pyrovoidians. Let us find comfort in the knowledge that they now rest in eternal peace, knowing that we emerged victorious in this harrowing war," Sir Novelle's words resonated with a commanding yet empathetic tone as his voice rose and fell.

     Stretching beyond the rows of towering buildings, a vast expanse of open land unveils itself with lush green grass and scattered patches of vibrant foliage. Encircling this serene landscape stands a sturdy stone fence, its imposing structure fortified with steel railings. At the heart of this tranquil scene, thousands of tombstones stand in solemn formation, creating a poignant tribute to those who have departed.

     As the gentle breeze rustles through the air, delicate petals cascade from colourful bouquets placed tenderly in front of the gravestones. Surrounding the graves, families gather in solemn attire, donning garments of deep black. Together, they stand, enduring family bonds and the profound impact left by those who have passed.

"I open this sacred cemetery, a hallowed ground dedicated to the revered heroes of our beloved city," Sir Novelle declared with heartfelt reverence. "Within these hallowed grounds, they shall find eternal peace, and their memory shall forever be cherished and honoured..."

     Sarrah gently embraces Bethany as her arm encircles her companion's neck. With their brows knitted, they cast their gaze downwards. Their thoughts drift back to the cherished memories of their departed friends as deep sighs hasten through their lips.

     Oliver rises from his seat, fixing his eyes on the ground before him. He strides purposefully towards the stage. Closing the distance, he approaches Sir Novelle at the centre front of the platform as he puffs his chest.

"I pay homage to those men and women who fought with me during the gruesome horrors of war. To those unfortunate souls who perished, I extend my sincerest condolences. And to those who yet draw breath, I seek your attention as I address you. I express my heartfelt gratitude for each of you, whether you emerged from the conflict unscathed or otherwise, who played an indispensable role in our arduous struggle against the Pyrovoidians. Your contributions to Asbranne, and indeed to the world at large, are immeasurable," Oliver delivered his speech, standing before the listeners with a bold face.

Everyone clapped. "...God bless the Remaining Podeshire!" they cheered.

As the clap faded away, Oliver smiled and continued. "In the footsteps of my father, the late Albert Podeshire, who gallantly fought with Asbrannians to secure this city's liberation from Auxgaurrde's clutches, I find myself filled with joyous purpose. I pledge to one and all that all arrangements have been made. As the Defender of Asbranne, I, Oliver Podeshire, shall never forsake you. Come what may, I shall not permit this bastion to crumble under any calamity. For this realm is not my abode but ours—our shared sanctuary."

People cheered as they punched in the air. "Long live! Long live! Long live!!" the crowd's exultant cries filled the air, sweeping through the atmosphere.