A Hero's Honor
#### The Ceremony
The aftermath of the battle left the kingdom in a state of cautious recovery. Villagers rebuilt their homes, knights tended to their wounds, and the air was filled with a sense of both sorrow and hope. The scent of smoke still lingered, but it was gradually replaced by the fragrance of fresh timber and the sounds of reconstruction.
Benimaru stood in the castle courtyard, the weight of the recent battle still heavy on his shoulders. His armor was battered, and his body bore the marks of the fierce fight, but his spirit remained unbroken. His parents stood proudly among the crowd, their faces beaming with pride and relief.
A trumpet's clear note rang out, silencing the murmurs and drawing everyone's attention to the castle balcony. King Arthur, resplendent in his royal regalia, stepped forward. His presence was commanding, his voice carrying the authority of his position.
#### The Declaration
"Citizens of Ingrasya," King Arthur began, his voice resonating through the courtyard. "Today, we stand united in the aftermath of a great trial. Our kingdom faced a fearsome threat, and it was through the bravery and quick decision-making of one among us that we were saved."
He gestured towards Benimaru, who stood tall despite his exhaustion. The crowd's eyes followed the king's hand, and a ripple of admiration and gratitude spread through them.
"Benimaru," King Arthur continued, his voice filled with solemn respect, "you have shown exceptional courage and leadership. Your actions in the face of danger have not only saved our kingdom but have also inspired all who witnessed your bravery. It is with great honor that I hereby appoint you, Benimaru, as the Hero of Ingrasya."
The king's words hung in the air, and for a moment, there was a profound silence. Then, a wave of applause and cheers erupted from the crowd. The sound was a symphony of joy and relief, echoing through the courtyard and into the streets beyond.
#### The Hero's Oath
King Arthur descended from the balcony, his regal presence parting the crowd as he approached Benimaru. The two stood face to face, the king holding a gleaming sword – the ceremonial blade of the Hero of Ingrasya.
"Kneel, Benimaru," the king commanded gently.
Benimaru knelt, the cold stone of the courtyard grounding him in the reality of the moment. The king laid the flat of the sword on Benimaru's shoulder, the weight of the blade a tangible symbol of the responsibility he now bore.
"Do you, Benimaru, swear to protect this kingdom and its people, to uphold justice, and to lead with honor and bravery?"
"I do," Benimaru replied, his voice steady and resolute.
"Then rise, Benimaru, Hero of Ingrasya," King Arthur declared, lifting the sword and stepping back.
Benimaru rose to his feet, the crowd's cheers swelling once more. The air was filled with the scent of blooming flowers from the castle gardens, mingling with the sounds of celebration. The touch of the ceremonial blade, the taste of victory, and the sight of his proud parents all combined to create a moment he would never forget.
#### A New Beginning
As the ceremony concluded, Benimaru felt a profound sense of purpose. He looked out over the kingdom, the sun setting behind the castle and casting a golden glow over the scene. His heart swelled with a mix of pride and determination. The journey that had begun with his rebirth had led him to this moment, and he was ready to face whatever the future held.
King Arthur placed a hand on Benimaru's shoulder. "You have proven yourself worthy of this title, Benimaru. Lead us well, and know that the kingdom stands behind you."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Benimaru replied, his voice filled with gratitude.
As he stepped forward, the crowd parted to let him pass, their faces shining with admiration and hope. He was no longer just a knight or a student; he was a hero, a beacon of courage in a world filled with magic and danger.
Benimaru knew that challenges awaited, but with the support of his kingdom and the strength he had gained, he felt ready to face them. The title of Hero of Ingrasya was not just an honor; it was a call to greatness, and he intended to answer it with all his heart.
The Hero's Companions
#### The Call to Assemble
Since being declared the Hero of Ingrasya, Benimaru had taken his role with unwavering dedication. His sword had brought down countless ogres, goblins, and wolves that threatened the city walls. He had purged dangerous paths, making the kingdom safer for its inhabitants. His reputation as a formidable warrior and protector grew with each victory.
One day, in the grand hall of Ingrasya Castle, King Arthur summoned him. The hall was filled with the scent of polished wood and burning torches, the air buzzing with anticipation.
"Benimaru," the king began, his voice echoing off the stone walls, "your valor and strength have proven indispensable. But even the mightiest hero cannot stand alone against all challenges. You need a party—a group of allies to support you on your journey."
Benimaru nodded, understanding the wisdom in the king's words. "I understand, Your Majesty. I will choose my companions wisely."
#### The First Companion: Kanade
The king led Benimaru to a large training ground where many of the kingdom's finest warriors and mages were gathered. As Benimaru scanned the crowd, his eyes fell upon a young woman. She stood confidently, her posture poised and her eyes sharp. She held a gun, a rare weapon in their world, and the fierce determination in her gaze spoke volumes.
Benimaru approached her, intrigued. "What is your name, my lady?" he asked.
She looked up, meeting his gaze with a fierce glint in her eyes. "My name is Kanade. At your service, Hero."
Benimaru smiled, impressed by her attitude. "I like your attitude, Kanade."
King Arthur chuckled, his eyes twinkling. "Oh ho ho, a fine choice indeed. Kanade is the greatest gunner in the kingdom. Her skill with a firearm is unmatched."
#### The Second Companion: Flicker
Benimaru continued to search for his next companion. He soon noticed a girl standing at the edge of the training ground, cowering slightly but emanating a powerful magical aura. Her robes were adorned with intricate symbols, and the air around her seemed to crackle with latent energy.
Benimaru approached her gently. "What is your name?" he asked, his voice kind.
The girl looked up, her eyes wide with nerves. "Uh, I-I... I am Flicker. Nice to meet you," she stammered, her awkwardness evident.
Benimaru laughed warmly. "What a nice lady! I will pick her."
The king nodded approvingly, his face lighting up with pride. "Oh ho ho, what a nice pick. Flicker is a master mage, skilled in fire and lightning. A powerful ally indeed."
#### The Vow of Protection
With Kanade and Flicker by his side, Benimaru stood before the king. The hall was filled with onlookers, their eyes filled with admiration and hope. The three companions formed a formidable sight, each unique in their abilities and strengths.
King Arthur addressed them, his voice carrying the weight of his expectations. "Benimaru, Kanade, Flicker—you are now a team. Together, you will protect this kingdom from all threats. I expect great things from you, Hero."
Benimaru bowed deeply, his heart filled with determination. "Together, we will protect this kingdom," he vowed.
Kanade and Flicker bowed as well, their faces reflecting their resolve. The air was thick with the promise of future battles and triumphs. The scent of determination was palpable, the taste of responsibility heavy on their tongues.
#### The Journey Begins
As they left the grand hall, the sun setting behind the castle cast a golden glow over the kingdom. The sky was painted with hues of orange and pink, a beautiful contrast to the darkness they knew they would soon face.
Benimaru looked at his new companions, his heart swelling with a mix of pride and anticipation. "Kanade, Flicker—let's do our best. Together, we will be unstoppable."
Kanade grinned, her gun slung over her shoulder. "I'm ready, Hero. Let's show them what we're made of."
Flicker, still shy but determined, nodded. "I-I'll do my best. Thank you for believing in me."
Benimaru placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We're a team now. We believe in each other."
As they set off on their journey, the kingdom of Ingrasya watched with hope. Their Hero was not alone. With Kanade's sharpshooting skills and Flicker's powerful magic, they would face any challenge that came their way. Together, they were ready to write a new chapter in the history of Ingrasya—a chapter filled with bravery, friendship, and triumph.