The grand National Award Ceremony of 2081 was held in Seoul's futuristic Unity Dome, a glittering structure that symbolized hope and resilience in a world rebuilding from chaos. This year's event was especially notable, as Prime Minister Gok himself was producing the ceremony.
The dome was packed with luminaries from all walks of life—actors, rankers, military personnel, medics, teachers, and innovators. Each was nominated for their extraordinary contributions to humanity's survival and progress.
Gok, dressed in a sharp black suit with crimson accents, stepped onto the stage amid thunderous applause. A massive holographic display behind him lit up with the names of the nominees.
Standing at the podium, Gok scanned the crowd, his usual smirk tempered by a rare solemnity.
Gok: "Tonight isn't just about celebrating individuals. It's about celebrating the spirit of humanity—the unbreakable will that's carried us through hell and back."
The audience erupted in cheers, but Gok's mind wandered as he continued. He spoke of the importance of unity and perseverance, his words heartfelt but tinged with an unmistakable..
As the first awards were handed out, Gok's gaze drifted to the holographic images of two names displayed above the stage: Sung Min Ki and Wu-Ji.
Gok (internal monologue): Min Ki… Wu-Ji…
He remembered Wu-Ji's sacrifice during the Zodiac invasion, how the proud general had fallen in battle, leaving behind only light fragments. Then there was Sung Min Ki, his unwavering strength and quiet resolve—a brother, a comrade, and now a mystery.
Gok clenched his fists behind the podium, his usually steely demeanor showing a crack.
Gok: "I dedicate this night to those we've lost and those who've vanished—legends whose light will guide us, even in their absence."
The crowd cheered as the nominees for Best Ranker were announced. The names of legendary figures who had rebuilt shattered nations appeared on the screen, but none carried the weight of Sung Min Ki's absence.
When the winner was declared, the audience erupted in applause. Gok personally presented the award, but his thoughts were elsewhere.
Gok (to himself): Min Ki, you should be here, standing among them, receiving this.
As the event reached its conclusion, Gok stepped back onto the stage for the final award, the Prime Minister's Honorary Medal. Instead of handing it to a single nominee, Gok made a surprising announcement.
Gok: "This medal is not mine to give. It belongs to those who carried us when we couldn't carry ourselves. To the ones who aren't here tonight—Sung Min Ki and Wu-Ji—this is for you."
The audience stood in silence as holographic images of Min Ki and Wu-Ji were displayed, their heroic deeds replayed in snippets on the giant screen.
After the ceremony, Gok returned to his private office. He poured himself a drink, staring out the window at the rift still faintly glowing in the night sky.
Gok (muttering): "Min Ki… I'll find you. No matter what."
From his pocket, he pulled out a small device—a tracking beacon Wu-Ji had left behind years ago. It was faint, almost non-functional, but it blinked weakly as if trying to guide him.
At that moment, the faint scent of cherry blossoms filled the room.
.