[Delforde, Capital of Edra, Northern Quarter]
Aboard the cart, Hermiel, Gwendoline, Yanis, and Alora finally arrived at their destination. They were in the heart of the downtown area, where skyscrapers displayed their opulence and towering stature. The cart was parked in front of a vast black building, streaked with numerous windows. Through these panes, one could see the living rooms of the building's inhabitants, furnished and decorated with a richness and elegance that were staggering. The building was guarded by members of the National Guard, standing tall and stern, assault rifles in hand.
Hermiel stepped onto the pavement, allowing the teenagers to follow suit. Journalists had gathered, turning the group into a spectacle. This attention made the Lost Ones feel like true celebrities. Everyone was astounded to encounter surroundings reminiscent of their old world. For the first time in months, they felt at home once more. Even Alora, despite her existential torment, couldn't help but smile, releasing a sigh of relief.
"It feels like I'm back on Earth, it's so comforting!", she exclaimed.
In turn, Yanis voiced his thoughts on the matter with a question that anyone would have asked in their position:
"So... you've got to explain something to me, Mr. Vini. Why summon us to the Kingdom of Rymis instead of Edra?"
"I don't know all the specifics, but the three leaders of each country decided that the kingdom should be your caretakers. Given the current situation, however, your guardianship has been temporarily transferred to Edra."
Gwendoline, on the other hand, was in disbelief that such a world could be so singular. While it did exude a medieval charm through the Kingdom of Rymis, it also bore similarities to Earth, especially in terms of technology and modernity. Unable to resist, Gwendoline marveled at the cars of Edra, eerily similar to those back on Earth.
It's incredible. It's been so long since I've seen a car...
"But I have a question..."
Gwendoline turned to Hermiel and posed her query:
"Tell me, Hermiel. Why is the Kingdom of Rymis the only country in Trillia..."
"Because King Rymis III is grounded in the traditions of his lineage. He shuns change, although he has embraced contemporary clothing and electricity. Consequently, many commoners opt to change their nationality and reside either in Argha or here in Edra."
"I see... that's quite severe... So, Argha is the other country in this world, right?"
"Yes, that's correct. Argha is the largest country in Trillia, located to the north. It's known for its strong nationalism, militarism, and its rich history. I'll focus on the essential details to avoid overwhelming you... Once plagued by poverty and totalitarianism under a dictator's tyranny, Argha underwent significant transformation due to Karpeva, the current president. She led a revolution against the regime, turning a destitute, perilous nation into the world's leading superpower."
"Do you think we'll ever visit there?"
"Only the future can tell, but it's quite likely. Personally, I've been there multiple times in the past. It's a very peaceful country with a peculiar sensation of being perpetually safe, yet always on the edge of danger."
After Hermiel finished explaining about Argha, Sepharina finally appeared before them with a radiant smile. She greeted Hermiel with a kiss on the cheek, then turned her attention to the three Lost Ones.
"It is with great honor that I welcome you to Delforde, dear young people. Allow me to introduce myself: I am Sepharina Amael, the assistant to Marc Emmanuel, our president. From now on, I will guide you to the floor where you will be staying. Please follow me."
Gwendoline and the others followed Sepharina's lead, entering a building that appeared to be a cross between a hotel and an apartment reserved for the affluent. The floor of the lobby was covered in gleaming marble, illuminated by the golden glow of lampposts. The reception area was bustling with hosts and hostesses, all smiling as if the Lost Ones were the most admirable beings they had ever encountered. Eventually, they reached an elevator with several floors to choose from.
"You will be staying on the 23rd floor. Should you forget, our hosts will direct you to your floor," Sepharina mentioned with a broad smile.
After a brief moment, they arrived at the 23rd floor, where the Lost Ones would live for several months. As the elevator doors opened, they revealed a hallway crowded with journalists, capturing the moment with cameras and flashbulbs. Sepharina and Hermiel paid them no mind, unlike the Lost Ones who were intrigued by the magnitude of the event.
They reached the door of their residence, bearing the number 186. Sepharina opened it with special care, revealing a contemporary living room as spacious as any they had seen in Érétide and Haradi. The floor was covered in light wood, with occasional steps scattered around. The ceiling was impressively high, illuminated by bulbs. The residence was marked by luxury and a sleek modern feel, especially given the massive television mounted on the living room wall, three times the size of a man. The kitchen boasted modern amenities such as a refrigerator, an electric stove, and lamps hanging over the countertop. Further in, a hallway led to the bathroom, the toilet, the bedrooms, and an entertainment room. Yet the most striking feature was a colossal window replacing one wall of the living room, overlooking the capital with a breathtaking view for all to enjoy.
Near the window, Marc and a green-haired elf, dressed like a maid, waited to greet the newcomers. Gwendoline's heart raced faster than when she had met King Rymis III.
Am I really about to speak with a president? I must admit, it feels quite surreal...
As was his custom, Marc didn't dominate with his physical presence, but his aura emanated a feeling of wisdom to all those near him. He stood with a smile, hands by his side, waiting for the Lost Ones. As for the elf with long green hair, a pair of glasses resting on her nose highlighted her eyes, shimmering like gold. Just like Marc, she too awaited the Lost Ones with a broad grin.
After what felt like an eternity, the door finally shut, allowing Hermiel and the Lost Ones to approach Marc. They hastened towards them, and now they stood face-to-face, ready to receive the welcome from the president of Edra. Marc first reached out to shake Hermiel's hand, and Hermiel accepted the gesture with honor.
"Good to see you back in Edra, Hermiel Vini!"
"I'd like to thank you for letting me accompany the Lost Ones. I owe a debt to Marshal, and I'll forever be grateful for that."
"As the representative of Edra, it's my duty to ensure everyone grieves in their own way. Similarly, Edra offers you its deepest condolences for the loss of Marshal Anabito. He was a brave, courageous, and humble man. It was truly an honor to have known him."
"Yes, I feel the same."
Marc then extended his hand to Yanis, who, for the first time, felt uneasy about the whole affair. Nevertheless, he took it and noted how Marc's grip spoke of experience.
"Welcome to Edra, Yanis Lagrand. It's an honor to have you in Delforde."
"Uh... Thank you. Sorry if I come off as too direct, but I'm not comfortable with formalities, Mr. President. I've always had my own unique way of expressing."
"Worry not about that. You may address me however you see fit without fear of reprimand. But remember, there are lines that shouldn't be crossed."
He then reached out to shake Alora's hand, and she gladly accepted.
"Welcome, Alora Devi. I hope Edra will cater to your needs."
"Yes, Mr. President! It feels good to be home!"
"I can imagine. Given that our technology is similar to what you had on your planet, I believe you'll find comfort here."
Finally, Marc and Gwendoline exchanged handshakes.
"Welcome, Gwendoline Bourcier. It's a pleasure to meet you."
"The feeling is mutual, Mr. President."
"I wanted to personally thank you for saving Trillia from the threat that was Abaguo."
"It was all thanks to this entity within me. I did nothing in that situation..."
"You may think so, but I observed that even without it, you fought till the very end. For that, I commend you."
After extending a warm welcome to everyone, Marc moved closer to the stewardess, clearing his throat before speaking again:
"Well… Allow me to introduce myself briefly. I am Marc Emmanuel, the President of the Republic of Edra and the leader of the political party, the Union of Equitable Peoples. Within our party, we passionately champion the rights of elves and humans. Throughout my two previous presidential terms, I have always strived to maintain lasting peace among the three nations of Trillia, despite our differing ideologies and the looming threat of demons. In short, with all the power vested in me, I pledge to ensure the protection of your rights, no matter the quests you are tasked with."
Marc paused, then introduced the elf by gesturing with both hands towards her.
"This is Claire Lysd'Or. She will be your stewardess in Edra."
Claire graced them with a gentle smile and closed her eyes, bowing slightly to the Lost Ones, her right hand over her heart.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, young Lost Ones. I hope to meet your expectations."
"Claire is a commendable individual who took on the stewardess role within the government a few years ago," Marc added. He turned to give Claire an admiring look, then shifted his gaze back to the Lost Ones.
"I have no doubt you will find in her a valuable ally and an endless source of information. She embodies the commitment and diligence that our administration members display in serving our citizens."
Claire straightened, her face still wearing that sincere smile.
"My role is to ensure your well-being and to assist you in accomplishing your tasks. Do not hesitate to reach out if you need anything."
Gwendoline, Alora, and Yanis exchanged glances, their faces revealing deep respect for Claire. Their expressions betrayed a glint of hope, but also a profound sense of duty concerning their mission in Edra. The room was then enveloped in a calming silence, as if time had halted to allow them to grasp the gravity of their situation.
Suddenly, Marc spoke up, a solemn tone in his voice:
"You've undergone incredible challenges to get here. This journey has undoubtedly changed you. This is why I hope that Edra will provide you a fresh start, a place to heal and grow. Our nation has much to teach you, and I am certain we also have a lot to learn from you."
He paused, making eye contact with each teenager in turn, before concluding:
"Welcome to Edra. Welcome home. I hope your stay will be pleasant and fruitful. Please take the time to explore the city when you can. I am sure you'll appreciate the many wonders of Delforde."
His words echoed in the hall, leaving the Lost Ones with a feeling of warmth and safety. Although they knew more challenges lay ahead, they were reassured they weren't alone. They had a nation behind them, supporting them. They had found a new home in Edra, and perhaps, even new hope.