The grand hall of Fort Arkhaven was filled with a somber yet celebratory atmosphere. Banners of House Arlyn hung from the walls, and a large crowd had gathered to honor the heroes who had defended the fort. Lord Lehard Arlyn stood at the dais, his presence commanding respect.

  "Today, we remember those who have exhibited superior courage and sacrifice," Lord Arlyn started, his voice resounding within the hall. "Their acts have granted us peace and victory."

  The hall remained silent, expectant anticipation weighing within the air as the initial names were read.

  "Corporal Thom Evert," Lord Arlyn announced first. A sturdy man with a scarred face stepped forward. "For your quick thinking and courage in the heat of battle, we award you a commendation and five gold coins." Thom accepted his reward with a nod, gratitude shining in his eyes.

  "Scout Haris Voss," continued Lord Arlyn. A middle-aged man with sharp eyes approached the dais. "For your invaluable reconnaissance and the intelligence you provided, we award you the Silver Star of Valor and five gold coins." Haris bowed gracefully, his expression one of pride.

  "Lieutenant Commander Greaves Grey," Lord Arlyn called next. A broad-shouldered, tall man came forward, his armor shining. "For your unit's leader with unshakeable courage, we give you the Bronze Sword of Merit and ten gold pieces." Greaves saluted, his expression stern and respectful.

  Lastly, Lord Arlyn's eyes fell on Kylian. "Kylian of Emberfall," he declared. Kylian came forward, his heart racing. He knelt before Lord Arlyn, who raised his sword ceremoniously.

  "For your bravery in the face of our enemies, and for the merits you have earned in this war, I hereby dub you Sir Kylian," Lord Arlyn declared, tapping Kylian's shoulders with the flat of his blade. "Rise, Sir Kylian, Knight of House Arlyn." He then handed Kylian a pouch containing ten gold coins.

  The hall erupted in applause as Kylian stood, a mix of pride and humility washing over him. This was a moment he had never imagined, yet here he was, recognized for his courage.

  Lord Arlyn continued, "We also honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Their families bear the weight of their loss, and we acknowledge their bravery and contribution."

  He paused, his voice filled with solemnity. "To the families of the deceased, House Arlyn offers compensation and support. Each family will receive a pension to ensure they are cared for. Additionally, the children of the fallen will be provided with opportunities for education and training, securing their future. These measures are but a small token of our gratitude for the immeasurable sacrifices made by their loved ones."

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  He turned his gaze to a woman standing in the front row. "Lady Brant, please step forward."

  Sergeant Brant's widow, her eyes glistening with tears, approached the dais. Lord Arlyn put a Medal with the crest of House Arlyn, a silver falcon, in her hands. "Your husband, Sir Brant, was a valiant knight and an exceptional swordsman. His sacrifice will never be forgotten. House Arlyn will ensure you and your family are cared for."

  Lady Brant nodded her expression a mix of grief and gratitude. The hall once again filled with applause, honoring the fallen hero. The ceremony continued late into the night filled with many awards, promotions, and promises. With a grand celebratory feast, the ceremony ended in a success.

  Kylian who has started his journey for revenge has now found a place where he belongs, a place that he can call home. He never imagined the Lord who looked so high in the sky would recognize him and give his meaningless life a purpose. "Huh," a long sigh of relief left his lips.

  Time passed, and Kylian was soon brought into the inner walls, as a future knight he was provided with a personal quarter, a small one-story wooden building with two bedrooms, one hall, one kitchen, and a bathroom with a connected drainage. His eyes teared up looking at the house as a distant memory flashed by, "Mother I promise you, I will build a strong wooden house that would not leak in the rain like our straw house." A promise he could not fulfill while she was alive.

  Kylian soon settled into his new quarters, a welcome upgrade from the crowded barracks where the common soldiers resided. To mark this milestone, he threw a housewarming party that was both a celebration and a tribute to the friendships that had seen him through the toughest of times. Inviting his old army buddies—Eamon, Alden, Finn, Gareth, and Tony—as well as his trusted blacksmith friends, Marta, Roran, and the ever-wise instructor Bram, Kylian created an atmosphere of warmth and familiarity that he had missed.

  Despite his growing fame, the evening was a joyous return to simplicity. His friends treated him with the same easygoing camaraderie as before, melting away any lingering worries he had about fitting into his new life. They shared stories of their past exploits, and laughter filled the room as they reminisced about the days of their training and the absurdities of their first battle. The clinking of glasses and the hearty chuckles were a stark contrast to the grimness of the war, a reminder of the normalcy they had fought so hard to protect.

  As the night wore on, the weight of the conflict seemed to lift from their shoulders, replaced by the promise of new beginnings. The war had pushed everyone to their limits, but now, with peace finally on the horizon, they savored the simple joy of being together. The room was alive with renewed hope, and the prospect of starting anew felt as refreshing as the night air.