Heine and Juliet gently supported Y/n and Irene as they descended the grand palace stairs, each step a reminder of the intense battle they had just endured. The weight of their exhaustion was evident, but the presence of their comrades offered a comforting reassurance.

As they reached the bottom, their soldiers gathered around, waiting for instructions. One of the soldiers stepped forward, his eyes filled with anticipation. "What should we do now?"

Wall, ever the strategist and morale booster, stepped up with a proposal. "How about we hold a feast? Let's prepare the main plaza with a giant fire, tables, and benches for everyone to sit, eat, and drink. It would be a shame if all the food here went to waste."

Irene pondered the idea for a moment, her gaze sweeping over the expectant faces of her troops, they were begging for this basically. A feast would not only celebrate their victory but also restore their spirits after the harrowing battle. She nodded in agreement, not wanting to be the killjoy . "Yes, a feast sounds like a good idea. Let's do it."

The soldiers erupted in cheers, their spirits lifting at the prospect of a celebration. Heine and Juliet guided Y/n and Irene to a nearby fountain, helping them sit down. The cool water trickling from the fountain provided a soothing backdrop as they watched their soldiers spring into action.

From their vantage point, Y/n and Irene observed the soldiers organizing the plaza. They brought out tables and benches, arranging them around a central area where a large fire would be built. The soldiers worked efficiently, their movements coordinated as they prepared enough seating for the thousand troops gathered.

Y/n leaned back, feeling a wave of relief wash over him. "It's good to see them in high spirits," he remarked, his voice tinged with exhaustion.

Irene nodded, her eyes following the bustling activity. "Yes, they deserve this. We all do."

As the soldiers continued their preparations, the scent of cooking food began to fill the air. Large cauldrons were set up, and the soldiers brought out provisions from the palace stores and nearby buildings. The aroma of roasting meat and freshly baked bread was intoxicating, promising a feast that would be remembered for years to come. Perhaps even be a yearly tradition, the liberation of the country from evil.

Wall moved through the plaza, overseeing the preparations and ensuring that everything was in order. His presence was a constant reminder of the discipline and efficiency that had brought them this far.

As the morning sun rose higher, the plaza was transformed into a festive scene. The central fire roared to life, casting a warm glow over the gathering. Soldiers began to take their seats, the benches filling quickly as they settled in for the feast.

Y/n and Irene, still seated by the fountain, watched with contentment. Irene laid her hand into the cool fountains water only for her to spray Y/n a bit with it. Both laughed gently and Y/n threw a bit back at her. Heine and Juliet stood nearby, their eyes reflecting the same sense of accomplishment. Rose fluttered around, her excitement palpable as she took in the celebratory atmosphere.

"Thank you for accepting Wall's proposal," Y/n said softly, turning to Irene. "This feast will do wonders for their morale."

Irene smiled, her eyes warm with affection. "We needed this, all of us. It's a time to heal and to remember what we've fought for."

As the first plates of food were served, the soldiers raised their glasses in a toast. The sound of laughter and conversation filled the air, blending with the crackle of the fire. It was a moment of unity, a testament to their resilience and strength.

For Y/n and Irene, this feast was more than just a celebration. It was a symbol of their victory, a beacon of hope for the future, and a reminder that, together, they could overcome any challenge.

As the celebration reached its peak, Brandish approached Y/n and Irene with a tray laden with roasted meat and drinks. Her expression was a mix of exasperation and fondness as she observed the pair sitting by the fountain, apart from the bustling feast below. A smirk played on her lips as she noticed their hands intertwined, hidden from others.

"What are you two doing up here? There is nothing you are hidding is it?" Brandish chided, her voice playful but firm. "You should be down there with everyone else, enjoying the feast. You've earned it as much as they have."

Y/n and Irene exchanged a glance, then smiled sheepishly. Brandish set the tray down beside them, offering a piece of raw meat to Rose, who eagerly took it and began munching in delight.

"Thank you, Brandish," Irene said, taking a goblet from the tray and passing another to Y/n. "We were just... taking a moment to rest."

"Well, rest with some food in your stomachs," Brandish replied, handing them plates of roasted meat. "You need your strength, and you should be celebrating with the rest of us."

Y/n accepted the plate, the savory aroma of the meat making his mouth water. He took a bite, savoring the rich flavor. "This is amazing," he said, nodding appreciatively. "Thank you."

Brandish waved off his thanks. "Just doing my part. Now, seriously, get down there and join the festivities. Your soldiers look up to you, and they'll want to see their leaders celebrating with them."

Irene took a sip of her drink, her eyes glancing over the jubilant scene in the plaza. The soldiers were laughing, eating, and drinking, their earlier exhaustion forgotten in the camaraderie of the feast. She nodded, understanding Brandish's point. Her eyes moved to see Heine and Juliet sitting next to a few others, deepened in the conversation, certainly about the rifle Juliet was holding and possibly talking off improvements they could do on it.

"You're right, I should be able to stand now." Irene agreed, standing up slowly and taking another sip. "We should be down there with them."

Y/n stood as well, stretching his limbs. "Let's go, then. I wouldn't want to disappoint our soldiers."

With Brandish leading the way and Rose flying close behind, they descended from their spot by the fountain and joined the throng of soldiers in the plaza. As they mingled with their troops, they were greeted with cheers and soft pats on the back. It was clear that their presence boosted the morale of the soldiers even further.

Brandish stayed close, ensuring that Y/n and Irene had everything they needed. She watched with satisfaction as they interacted with their troops, sharing in the joy of their hard-won victory. Especialy knowing the circumstances of their battleworn outfit.

Rose fluttered around, still munching on her piece of raw meat, her eyes bright with excitement. The atmosphere was electric, filled with the sounds of celebration and the warmth of camaraderie.

As the feast wore on, the fire blazed brightly, casting a warm glow over the gathering. Y/n and Irene moved through the crowd, sharing smiles and laughter with their soldiers. It was a day of unity and triumph, a moment to cherish amidst the chaos of their journey.

For a few precious hours, the burdens of their mission were forgotten, replaced by the simple joy of being together, celebrating their victory and the bonds that had brought them this far. And in that moment, they were reminded of the strength that came from standing together.

Brandish approached Y/n and Irene, her eyes gleaming with curiosity and a hint of mischief. She set down her drink and looked at them both with an amused expression.

"So," she began, her tone teasing, "now that it's all over, what are you two planning to do next? Maybe get married and start a family?"

Both Y/n and Irene blushed deeply at her words, their faces turning a shade of crimson. Y/n opened his mouth to respond, but his embarrassment seemed to get the better of him, and he ended up stammering. "W-we're not... I mean, it's not like that..."

Irene, equally flustered, shook her head vigorously. "Brandish, we're not old enough for that! We have so much more to do... responsibilities... missions...training."

Brandish simply raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced by their protests. She took a leisurely sip of her drink, her eyes never leaving their faces. "Uh-huh, sure. You two are just full of surprises. But seriously, you should consider it. You'd make a cute family."

The blushes on their faces deepened, and Y/n found himself chuckling awkwardly. "We have other priorities right now. Like rebuilding and ensuring peace."

Brandish laughed lightly, her amusement genuine. "Alright, I'll let you off the hook for now. But don't think I'm not keeping an eye on you two."

As she moved away, mingling back into the crowd, Irene and Y/n exchanged a glance, both feeling the heat still lingering on their cheeks.

Heine and Juliet joined them, clearly having overheard the conversation. Juliet smirked, nudging Heine. "Looks like we might have to play babysiters soon."

Irene rolled her eyes, trying to maintain her composure. "Honestly, you two are just as bad as Brandish."

Heine grinned. "We're just looking out for you. Besides, it's fun to see you both so flustered."

Y/n decided to change the subject, turning to look at the festivities around them. "This feast turned out great, didn't it? Everyone seems to be having a good time."

Irene nodded, grateful for the shift in topic. "Yes, it's a good way to boost morale. We've been through a lot, and everyone needed this."

They watched as soldiers shared stories and laughter, the bond between them evident. Rose fluttered around, delighting in the attention she received from the soldiers, pets and curious questions on the adventures she had been on with Y/n and Irene. She occasionally swooped down to grab a piece of food, her enthusiasm infectious.

As the night went on, Y/n and Irene moved through the crowd, engaging in conversations with their troops. They listened to tales of bravery, shared in the laughter, and offered words of encouragement. The camaraderie was palpable, a testament to the unity and strength of their forces.

At one point, Wall approached them, holding a mug of ale. "You know, this victory wouldn't have been possible without you two. You should be proud." Y/n smiled, his earlier embarrassment forgotten. "It was a team effort. Everyone played a crucial role."

Wall nodded, his expression serious. "True, but leadership matters. You both led us to this victory." He handed mugs to Y/n and Irene but she declined the offer.

Irene placed a hand on Y/n's shoulder, her touch warm and reassuring. "We couldn't have done it without everyone's support." Wall took a sip. "We all know how difficult it is to face something alone. Its always better as a group."

As the day began to wind down, the fire still blazed, casting long shadows across the plaza. Soldiers started to settle down, some lying on the ground, looking up at the stars. The air was filled with a sense of peace and contentment.

Brandish returned, her mischievous grin replaced with a softer, more genuine smile. "You two should get some rest. Tomorrow we start for Alvarez, you know how much his majesty holds on reports."

Y/n and Irene nodded, feeling the weight of the day's events finally catching up with them. They made their way to a quieter spot, away from the remaining revelry. What could be more perfect than an airship docked onto the cities wall.

Sitting down, they leaned against each other, finding comfort in the closeness. Y/n looked up at the sky, the stars twinkling brightly above, they had been celebrating the whole day, eating drinking resting, walking through the city. "It's been quite a journey, hasn't it?"

Irene nodded, her head resting on his shoulder. "Yes, it has. And it's just the beginning." They sat in comfortable silence, the sounds of the celebration fading into the background. The cool night breeze whispering around them as they gazed at the stars. The sky was a canvas of twinkling lights, offering a serene contrast to the day's chaos. Y/n's greatsword lay beside him, still sharp from the earlier battle, and Irene's staff rested across her lap.

They needed this moment of peace, away from the celebrations and the responsibilities that constantly loomed over them. Rose flew up to them, her wings fluttering softly before she nestled on Irene's lap, her small form bringing a sense of comfort. Irene stroked Rose's fur gently, her eyes softening with affection.

The quiet was soon interrupted by the sound of bickering. Irene rolled her eyes knowing who was coming. Heine and Juliet's voices carried over the deck as they approached.

"I'm telling you, some of the other Spriggan Twelve are just as formidable," Heine argued, her tone exasperated.

Juliet huffed in response. "Oh, please. None of them compare to Y/n. He's a real monster and he's hot."

As they reached Irene and Y/n, Heine turned to Irene with a curious expression. "What's next on our list of adventures, Lady Irene?"

Juliet chimed in before Irene could respond. "We're going to hunt that mean Dragon, Acnologia, of course."

Heine looked at her in disbelief. Knocking on Juliets head with her hand. "Are you out of your mind? We barely managed to get through today!"

Irene chuckled softly, amused by their banter. "Calm down, both of you. We're not chasing Acnologia. . . just yet."

Y/n raised an eyebrow, glancing at Irene. "So, what's the plan then?"

Irene leaned back, her eyes reflecting the starlight. "For now, your training is going to be our top priority. There's a lot you still need to learn and master."

Juliet pouted. "Training sounds so boring compared to hunting dragons."

Irene smiled warmly at Juliet's enthusiasm. "Trust me, Juliet, it's necessary. And besides, it won't be boring. I'll be asking August to teach Y/n a few things."

Heine's eyes widened with respect. "August? The Wizard King himself?"

Irene nodded. "Yes, his knowledge and experience are unparalleled. He can help Y/n tap into his true potential abaut magic mastery."

Y/n's expression turned thoughtful. "It sounds like it's going to be intense."

Irene placed a hand on his shoulder. "It will be, but I have faith in you. You've come so far already."

Rose squeaked softly, as if agreeing with Irene. The night air seemed to grow warmer, filled with a sense of hope and determination.

Juliet sat down beside Irene, her earlier excitement replaced with curiosity. "What kind of training do you think August will put him through?"

Irene shrugged lightly. "It could be anything. August is known for his unique and rigorous methods. But whatever it is, it will prepare Y/n for what's to come. Just keep an eye out for his staff he likes to use it way too much." She stated and rubbed the back of her hand. "I can't believe that old geezer used to hit me on the hand when tries to grab one of his books." She puffed her cheeks.

Heine leaned against the railing, looking out into the distance. "And what about us? What will we be doing while Y/n trains?"

Irene smiled. "You two will be training as well. We all need to be at our best. This is just the beginning of our journey." Heine paled in shock. "Please no." She whined and Irene just kept a pleased smile.

Irene pat Y/n's thigh. "Time to settle into our beds don't you think?" She stated and got up slowly.  "Yeah got idea, I'm beat." Heine exclaimed stretching. Juliet oppened the door  to settle into the captain's cabin, the gentle hum of the airship engines providing a comforting backdrop. The room was cozy, filled with the warmth of shared experiences. Heine took Juliets rifle and laid it on a nearby table before taking her own from her shoulder and a cleaning kit. Juliet took a kettle from a shellf placing it on a stove to brew tea. Y/n and Irene sat together at a small table, papers spread out before them, and Rose nestled contentedly between them. Y/n's hand occasionally drifted to pet her, while Irene's eyes scanned the documents.

Juliet moved around the cabin, setting out tea cups on the table. Heine was nearby, meticulously disasembling and cleaning the guns they had used earlier, her movements precise and practiced. The air was filled with the scent of brewing tea, a soothing aroma that brought a sense of calm.

A gentle knock on the door drew their attention. Brandish stood there, her expression curious. "May I come in?"

Juliet looked up from the stove and smiled. "Of course, come in, Brandish."

Brandish entered, her eyes immediately drawn to Y/n and Irene. She watched them for a moment, a soft murmur escaping her lips. "They would look so cute with a baby."

Y/n and Irene looked up, slightly startled, but Brandish quickly waved her hand dismissively. "Just an observation."

Heine chuckled softly, continuing to clean her guns. Juliet finished pouring the tea and set the pot down on the table, inviting Brandish with a welcoming gesture. "Would you like some tea?"

Brandish nodded and took a seat. "Thank you, Juliet." As she settled in, her eyes roamed the cabin, taking in the scene. "It feels more like sitting with a family than work colleagues."

Irene looked up from the papers, a thoughtful expression on her face. "Aren't we basically like family if we go through so much together?"

Brandish laughed and shook her head. "I suppose so. It's just... different. Nice, but different."

Juliet poured the tea, the soft clinking of porcelain filling the air. Everyone took a cup, the warmth spreading through their hands and bodies. Irene looked over at Brandish. "Any news from our spies on the subject of Fiore?"

Brandish nodded, taking a sip of her tea. "Dark guilds all over the country are disappearing. Nirvana got destroyed. And a new guild called Saber Tooth has formed, that's the broader picture."

Heine raised an eyebrow, pausing in her cleaning. "Saber Tooth, huh? Interesting name."

Y/n leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face. "The magic landscape is always changing. We'll have to keep an eye on this new guild."

Irene nodded in agreement. "Yes, it's important to stay informed. But for now, we should rest and recover. We've had a long day."

Brandish smiled, a rare softness in her eyes as she looked around the cabin. "It's moments like these that remind me why we fight. For each other, for the bonds we share."

Y/n reached out, taking Irene's hand in his own. "Exactly. We're stronger together."

The room fell into a comfortable silence, each person lost in their thoughts, savoring the warmth of the tea and the company of their comrades. The night stretched on, filled with the quiet murmur of conversation and the occasional laugh, a stark contrast to the battles they had faced.

As they prepared to sleep, the sense of family lingered, a bond forged in the fires of conflict and tempered by the quiet moments of peace. Tomorrow would bring new challenges, but for now, they had each other, and that was enough.

Brandish set her empty teacup down and stood up, stretching her arms. "I should excuse myself. I need to return to my cabin on the man o' war to sleep."

Irene feigned a pout, a playful glint in her eyes. "Oh, you get so much more space than we do here. I'm positively envious."

Tracing a finger teasingly down Y/n's chest, Irene added with a smirk, "But then again, you don't have someone to cuddle with in bed, do you?"

Brandish laughed, the sound light and genuine. "Don't worry, Irene. I'm working on that already."

Everyone chuckled, and the room's atmosphere lightened even more. Brandish gave them a nod and a smile before heading towards the door. "Goodnight, everyone. Sleep well."

"Goodnight, Brandish," the group echoed.

Brandish slipped out of the cabin, leaving the others to settle in for the night. Heine and Juliet finished their preparations, organizing the last of their gear before climbing into their beds. Rose nestled down on her own small bed, already drifting into sleep.

Irene and Y/n shared a quiet moment, their fingers entwined. Irene's earlier playfulness gave way to a softer expression as she looked into Y/n's eyes. "Are you comfortable?"

Y/n nodded, a faint smile on his lips. "I am, as long as you're here." Irene pressed her back against Y/n's chest, his arrm going around her, she liked the spooning position when sleeping and the night in this place could be quite cold.

They settled into their bed, the close quarters of the airship cabin making it a snug fit. The gentle rocking of the airship and the comforting presence of their friends lulled them into a peaceful state.

As they lay there, the events of the day replayed in their minds. The battles, the victories, and the quiet moments of camaraderie. Irene's head rested on Y/n's chest, and she could hear the steady beat of his heart. She felt a deep sense of contentment and security, knowing they were surrounded by those who cared for them.