Months passed since the end of the war. The kingdom began to rebuild, the scars of conflict slowly healed, but Aeris found himself adrift. He had never sought accolades or fame. All he wanted was peace, and now that the war was over, it seemed as if he had lost his sense of purpose.
It was then that King Leonte, ruler of the kingdom, summoned Aeris to the palace. As a token of gratitude for the hero's immense sacrifices and to honor his unparalleled service, the king decided to reward him in the only way he knew how. Aeris was granted a vast and fertile land, the likes of which had never been seen before. The land stretched across miles of untamed wilderness, and rich valleys would flow with abundance under his rule. To further honor Aeris, the king bestowed upon him the noble title of Duke, making him one of the most powerful figures in the kingdom.
"Aeris, you are not only the greatest warrior this kingdom has ever known, but you are also its savior. You have secured our future. You gave us hope when all was lost. It is only fitting that you should take what is yours and lead the land with wisdom and justice," said King Leonte, his voice strong but carrying the weight of age.
But Aeris, though humbled by the gift, could not feel the pride that he had expected. Instead of joy, he felt a heavy burden settle upon his shoulders. He had fought for peace, not for power. Now, with the title of Duke came expectations and responsibilities that he never sought.