Heroes' Park stretched beneath a sky streaked with orange hues, the setting sun bathing the area in warm, solemn light. Rows of ancient trees lined the central path, their leaves rustling softly in a gentle breeze. Red paper lanterns floated here and there, ready to be lit and rise into the sky, while slow, somber music from horns and harps filled the air with an almost sacred gravity. Nobles in lavish attire—silk dresses embroidered with gold, capes adorned with silver threads—moved with restrained dignity, exchanging greetings and murmurs. Aegyls with folded wings, sharp-eyed elves, and other peoples of Altus, but no humans, mingled in the crowd, their presence adding a rare aura to the event.
"Wow, is this what a rank-passing ceremony looks like?" Nia whispered, eyes wide, captivated by the buzz around her.
"No," Kaiser replied, his tone serious. "It's this grand because it's General Barrios."
