The sun had already gone down, and people were making their way through the city, putting flowers on the monument of heroes. While I was meeting up with Ryuu in Central Park, where all the people gather to sing and dance.
I could see Ryuu rubbing her hands nervously, "Are you okay, Ryuu?"
Ryuu looked up at me, "It's the first time I will sing in front of so many people, so I am a little nervous, I think."
I scooted closer and held her hands gently, "It will be fine, I am here with you, remember?"
She nodded slowly, a small smile gracing her lips, and spoke quietly, "You are right, Arin-san, thank you…"
"No worries, now it seems people have started to gather, we should also get ready." I looked at the crowd gathering in Central Park. Their expression was more solemn than they were in the day, as it was time to mourn and honor the old heroes.
I gave a nod to Loki, and she stepped forward, her usual playful demeanor replaced by something more dignified and respectful. The crowd gradually fell silent, sensing the shift in the evening's tone.
"Everyone," she began, her voice carrying clearly across the plaza, "as tradition dictates, each year we honor those who gave their lives in service to our city and its people. Tonight, we remember not just the Ancient heroes and the heroes who fell during the Evilus conflict, but all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for Orario and for the world."
A reverent hush settled over the gathering. I could see tears glistening in some eyes, while others bore expressions of quiet determination.
"This year," Loki continued, "we have chosen two voices to lead us in tribute. Please welcome Arin Kael—known to you as 'Astralis—and Lion of the Astraea familia, 'Gale Wind."
The applause was respectful rather than enthusiastic, appropriate for the solemn occasion. Ryuu and I moved forward, readying our instruments, and faced the crowd. I could see every single person I was familiar with in the crowd.
Ryuu and I looked towards each other and nodded, playing the instrument to create a worthy melody for the fallen and Immortal heroes.
(Song Title: (To Be a Hero by CrazyNerdAdventures))
(Ryuu Lion)
Wishing on stars from the caverns below with hands that had nothing and nowhere to go
(Arin Kael)
Dreams lay broken on gravel and stone, but still I move forward, even if I walk alone
(Ryuu Lion)
Through the darkness where others may fall, rising up in spite of our flaws
(Arin Kael)
This will be my claim to fame. When the dust clears, remember my name. Edge of the line, holding my breath. The shadows close in; I won't accept death.
(Arin Kael)
No chosen path, not born to succeed, I can not stop; there is no retreat. Fall and bleed, still I won't yield, Make the pain the blade I wield!
Rise up! Even if you stand alone when the tower shakes and gods look on…
(Ryuu Lion)
This is what a hero is!
(Arin Kael)
Feeling the heat from the forge of my life, as challenges stack up left and right
(Ryuu Lion)
Fan the flames, trials from every side, and yet you walk through this endless fight
(Arin Kael)
Was told to quit a thousand times, but I won't fall; I'll claim what's mine. A single voice, sharp and untamed, Ringing out, you will know my name.
Torn and bruised, I have no doubt Fingers bleeding, still reaching out Take the hit and hold the line Let them see what strength defines
(Ryuu Lion)
Make a stand in this war-torn land when monsters rise and gods disband… This is what a hero is!
(Arin Kael)
Let the dust settle on this battleground. Torn to the brink, try to burn me down. The test of a soul bound by desire Command the blaze, become the fire!
(Ryuu Lion)
This is what a hero is...
Face the end, stand through it all. Never back down, you will see them fall. Fight the current when the gods twist fate. Hold on with both hands, it's never too late.
(Arin Kael)
Stand strong, while they all look on. Not a warrior or leader, still, I rise alone… I am a hero!
(Ryuu Lion)
To be a hero... To still remain... When all that's left... Is to fight again…
The song was complete, and the whole park was bathed in blue light by my blue flames, mixing in all the candles around us, creating a soothing and warm atmosphere.
Seeing that everyone was silent, Loki decided to speak up, "Thank you, Arin-kun and Gale Wind, for the amazing tribute song. Now, everyone, let's all sing and dance, for this is the peace the heroes provided for us. They will be happy to see us enjoy this future rather than cry for them! So sing, sing, and dance and let those heroes know their sacrifice was not in vain!"
And so all the people started to sing and dance, Ryuu and I backed off.
"That went better than I expected…" We looked at the crowd singing and dancing as Ryuu spoke. There were some, or rather a lot of people, who were singing and dancing while crying, remembering their loved ones who were lost.
"Yes, it's because your voice is really sweet, Ryuu." I gave my compliment as Ryuu's cheeks burned red.
"Th-Thank you, Arin-san. But I think you are clearly better at it." She replied.
"Haha, thanks, Ryuu, now should we join the rest?" I suggested that since Alise and others will start making rounds around the city, after all, it would be bad if an incident happened when pretty much all the people were gathered at the park.
"Yes, we should," and as we walked, making our way to the girls, Ryuu spoke hesitantly. "Umm… Arin-san, I heard that you referred two girls to your familia as potential new members."
"Yes, I did, they seem like they have a lot of potential, and most of all, they seem quite troubled."
"Troubled?" Ryuu asked, clearly interested in knowing more.
"Yes, it seems some god is obsessed with them and wants to make them join his familia by force. They told me they were chased and came to Orario in hopes of finding a familia that could grant them protection." I explained further.
To be honest, I was quite surprised when I saw them together. They told me that they just happened to meet each other when they were on the run.
"I see, I knew it, Kaguya was wrong calling Arin-san a skirt chaser when he was just helping people…" Ryuu mumbled quietly.
"What do you say, Ryuu?" When I asked, Ryuu flinched and spoke hurriedly.
"I-I was just saying that I am glad they are safe now."
No, I clearly heard you, you know? And that bit*h Kaguya is filling Ryuu's ears!
I will get my revenge on her, that snarky bit*h!
"What happened, Arin-san? You are clenching your hands so tightly." I noticed that I really was clenching my hands, but who can blame me?
"It's nothing, Ryuu. Ah, there they are." I pointed towards the place where Alise and others were waiting for us.
"Oh, the singing duo is here! You were both amazing, Lion, Arin!" Alise spoke loudly, hugging Ryuu and me both.
"Thank you, Alise," I replied, while Ryuu spoke her thanks.
"Captain, you should not get too close to him. He might put on an innocent face, but he is a skrit chaser after all," comes Kaguya's voice.
"Yeah, going after several women at once. Just how egotistical is this guy?" This time, Lyra spoke with a smirk on her face, clearly enjoying the sight.
Her enjoying this is good and all, but I would prefer it if she don't fan the flames.
"Are you sure he isn't absolutely evil?" Kaguya again spoke, not missing the chance she got to annoy me.
"Kaguya, Lyra!" Seeing them not stopping, Ryuu spoke in my defense. "Arin-san is not like that; he already explained to me what happened!"
"Hoo… and what is it?" Alise asked, releasing both Ryuu and me from her bear hug.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
We walked around as Ryuu explained the situation on my behalf.
"So a god is involved, huh?" Alise stated.
"Gods are troublesome beings, even if they can't do anything to you face-to-face, they might deploy other means to harm you," Kaguya added, worry seeping into her voice.
"Don't worry, I am not weak, you know, no matter what tactic they use, I am prepared."
"That's good, but if you need our help, don't hesitate to ask, okay?" Kaguya offered, while Alise smirked at her.
"He-Hem, Kaguya, are you trying ot get on the list of women chased by Arin?"
"Don't be stupid, captain. He has a long list of incidents where he tries to solve every problem on his own. I just don't want him to die in some gutter."
"Touche, but yes, I will ask for your help when I need it,"
I am really glad to have these girls willing to watch my back.
We kept making rounds until the sun was about to rise, and I parted ways with the girls to complete my own personal work. And made my way to the cemetery.