The seaside town of Dalleos was once again bustling with activity. It was only weeks ago that the demon king had been slain by the valiant heroes who breached his fortress in the south, and sealed him away into a blade, never to be unleashed again. In the time since, cities across the healing world all rang out in celebrations, announcing new holidays where all would come out onto the streets and dance under the evening sun, deep into the night. But the night had not fallen yet, for now the air was cool and crisp, the sun slightly hidden behind an apricot-tinged wall of clouds that slowly glided in from the east. The sun's light did not lose its warmth as it speckled the water with glimmers of white reflection across the bay.
Even now, as the heroes were paraded through the city, they were almost at a loss of words for the beauty of it all. The skies were mostly clear, purplish-orange from the setting sun that dappled the cobble buildings decorated with flags and banners with intricate shadows that yawned over the city. Children ran through the streets playing their favorite games, their families attending nearby at ease that they would grow up in peace and harmony. It was simply so much beauty of the world being brought out and celebrated, and it was the perfect end to their journey.
Jaime looked over at his companion, a paladin who had fought alongside him during the grueling campaign, where they fought away the corruptive forces of the demon king. Of course, she had retired her armor and instead wore a priestly robe of white, a symbol of her own faith. The silk fabric of her garments was embroidered with golden stitching in various intricate and wonderful religious symbols of protection, healing, and devotion.
"They certainly seem to be enjoying themselves, Elora."
"They should be." The young paladin smiled up at her compatriot. "They're celebrating thousands of years of peace to come. We really did it. You did it."
Jaime had to laugh. "You're so humble. There was no way I could have done this on my own."
Elora seemed to be extra comfortable in the presence of the warrior. Her golden hair, usually kept in a tight bun, was let loose, with her locks cascading down over her shoulders. The ends were curled up, a golden color that glowed in the fading sunlight. Her freckled cheeks were red and a smile was painted upon her lips.
"You're right, thank you. I shouldn't sell myself short like that." Elora said, turning back to Jaime. "But come on, let's forget all that for now. It's over. What's more important than seeing all of our hard work paid off? Isn't this what we fought for?"
The two companions fell into a lighthearted conversation about how they felt that all their efforts had come to fruition when they were cut off by the kind mayor. He stood on a large podium in the center of the joyous plaza and began speaking.
"Ladies and gentlemen, if I could have your attention, please. We have the heroes back!" He pointed his intricate cane to the heroes of legend. The crowd parted, revealing the faces of their heroes, as they were escorted in by a cadre of guards decorated with the signage of Dalleos.
"Truly, we are proud to welcome back our heroes!" The mayor continued. "You have proven yourselves time and time again, and we are all so thankful for your sacrifice. Thank you, heroes. Thank you!"
The crowd began to clap and cheer as the heroes ascended the podium to bow and acknowledge the applause. They would do this for each city, but it was especially meaningful to Dalleos, as they both originally hailed from it. Perhaps, with enough time, they would be genericized by other cities into some heroic cliche, but right now they felt like they would be remembered in Dalleos forever.
Jaime, holding Elora's hand as they stood together sharing the podium, stood tall and prepared to speak.
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