Chapter 9 – Return of the Heir
The next day—
The day William von Heart returned after two years on the battlefield.
The entire mansion was lively.
Servants moved quickly through the halls, preparing everything. There was excitement in the air.
The heir of the Dukedom of Heart was coming home.
---
Ignes was in his room, being prepared by his maids.
Lily stood in front of him, adjusting his clothes carefully, while the others made sure everything was perfect.
"Young lord, please stand still," Lily said gently.
Ignes didn't resist.
After everything was done, he left the room and walked down the stairs.
---
Outside—
Alexander von Heart was already waiting near the carriage.
Ignes walked toward him calmly.
Together, they stepped into the carriage.
---
They were not just going to welcome William.
Today was also a day of remembrance.
The army that had fought against the demons—
The soldiers who had protected their land—
And those who had died—
Would be honored.
---
As the carriage moved through the city, Ignes looked outside.
People had gathered along the roads.
Some held flowers.
Some cheered.
Some simply stood in silence.
It was both celebration—
And mourning.
---
Ignes spoke in his mind.
Kurora…
Why is there no Hero?
Shouldn't there be one in a situation like this?
---
Kurora replied,
"I don't know."
"With such a disaster, usually a Hero would be sent to stop the Demon King and his army…"
---
Ignes continued,
"Did the creator or the gods of this world send an oracle?"
"Something like… 'no hero will come'… or 'this is your fight'?"
---
Kurora answered,
"No. There was nothing like that."
---
Ignes stayed quiet for a moment.
Then he said,
"Alright."
"You should rest."
"You're not in your best state."
---
Kurora replied softly,
"…Yes."
---
Their connection faded.
---
The carriage stopped.
Ignes and Alexander stepped out.
Ahead of them—
The procession of the army moved forward.
Knights in formation.
Banners raised.
Some soldiers proud.
Some tired.
Some carrying the weight of loss.
---
Flowers were thrown.
Cheers rose.
But beneath it—
There was sorrow.
---
The procession slowly made its way toward the Temple of the Sword God.
Where the fallen would be honored.
And the living—
Would remember.