In the aftermath of the life-and-death battle described in the previous chapter, Solomon, with his extraordinary courage and unmatched strength, had successfully vanquished the Dark Order. His triumph brought a ray of hope to the Victoria family and the Honour Continent. Now, with the weight of victory behind him, he strode purposefully onto the lands of his family.
"Look! It's Solomon! He's returned!" cried one of the sharper-eyed family members.
Instantly, a wave of excitement swept through the estate. People from all directions hurried to gather around Solomon. Even Elder Claude, who had once opposed his relationship with Lianna, found himself stepping forward with uncharacteristic speed, a mixture of relief and admiration etched on his face.
"Solomon, you are truly the pride of our family! I must admit, I once doubted you, but now… I see that I was short-sighted," Elder Claude said sincerely, his eyes filled with respect.
"You're too kind, Elder. This was my duty. For the family, for the Honour Continent, I would give my all without hesitation," Solomon replied humbly.
The younger members of the family were even more enthusiastic, crowding around him with awe in their eyes.
"Solomon, you're amazing! A true hero for all of us!" exclaimed one of the younger boys, his face alight with admiration.
"Yes! I want to be just like you one day and bring honour to the family!" another chimed in.
They lifted Solomon high into the air, carrying him towards the family's grand hall amidst cheers and applause. Along the way, people greeted him with warm words, their gratitude overflowing.
"Thank you, Solomon, for saving our family!"
"You will forever be our hero!"
The words of praise and thanks flowed over him like a tide of warmth, filling Solomon's heart with pride and joy.
As they entered the family's grand hall, a magnificent celebration awaited him. The elders had already gathered, their expressions solemn yet joyful.
"Solomon, you have brought great honour to our family. This glory belongs to you!" declared Duke Arthur, the head of the family, as he rose to his feet.
The steward, Alfred, approached with a shining medal of honour in hand, the golden surface glinting in the light. He stopped before Solomon and bowed respectfully.
"Solomon, this Medal of Honour is a tribute to your valour. You have earned it," Alfred said with a warm smile.
Taking the medal in his hands, Solomon felt a wave of emotion wash over him. He looked out at the cheering crowd, his heart brimming with gratitude.
"This victory isn't mine alone. It was your support and trust that gave me the strength to persevere," Solomon proclaimed loudly, his voice steady and sincere.
Just then, an excited voice rang out from the crowd.
"Solomon!"
Everyone turned to see Lianna, dressed in an elegant white gown, running towards the stage. She was radiant, like a blooming flower in full splendour, her eyes glistening with tears of joy. Without hesitation, she threw herself into Solomon's arms.
"My love, I always knew you could do it! I've never been more proud of you!" Lianna exclaimed, her voice trembling with emotion.
"Lianna, I've finally done it. We'll never have to part again," Solomon whispered as he held her close, tears streaming down his own face.
In that moment, time seemed to stand still. The sight of the two embracing moved everyone present, their love story—a tale of enduring passion through trials and tribulations—becoming a legend within the family.
Among the younger members, the scene sparked dreams of their own.
"One day, I want to be like Solomon and Lianna, brave enough to fight for my own happiness!"
"Yes! If we persevere, we can succeed, just like them!"
Solomon had not only proven himself through his strength and devotion to the family but had also inspired others to believe in their own potential. His name was inscribed in the family's Hall of Honour, a testament to his heroic deeds and selfless contributions.
After the grand celebration, however, Solomon did not rest on his laurels. He knew that the path ahead was still long, and the family would continue to rely on him for protection.
"I must train harder, to bring even greater glory to the family," he vowed silently.
Yet, just as Solomon prepared to devote himself fully to his training, a mysterious letter was delivered into his hands. There was no signature on the envelope, only a strange symbol drawn upon it.
Curious and cautious, Solomon broke the seal and unfolded the letter. Written in dark, bold strokes were just a few ominous words:
"Behind the glory, danger still lurks. A greater storm is quietly brewing…"
Who had sent this letter? What dangers did it forewarn? And how would Solomon face this new, shadowy threat? The answers lay shrouded in mystery, casting a long, uncertain shadow over the future.