Mizuno was quiet as the sun began to set, the day's events heavy on the town. The atmosphere was solemn as townsfolk gathered in the square for a memorial ceremony. Esony stood with his mother, Aiko, amidst the crowd, feeling the weight of the past pressing down on him.
As the ceremony began, Shirohana approached Esony, her expression somber.
"It's hard to believe how much has changed since the civil war. Your father's sacrifice was pivotal for all of us," Shirohana said.
"Yes, it was. Sometimes I wonder how different things might have been if he were still here. His absence is a constant reminder of what we've lost," Esony replied.
The town's leaders took to the stage, their voices steady but their faces etched with grief. The names of the fallen were read aloud, each one a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of those who had fought.
"Today, we honor those who gave their lives for the safety and future of Mizuno. Among them was Arashi, a symbol of courage and selflessness," declared the Town Leader.
Esony's gaze was fixed on the lanterns being lit and released into the sky, each representing a soul lost in the conflict. He could see the reflections of the lanterns in Shirohana's eyes as she looked up.
"We can never forget the cost of peace. Your father's legacy lives on through us," Shirohana said.
As the lanterns floated upward, their soft light mingling with the darkening sky, the crowd fell into a reflective silence. Esony felt a deep connection to the stories being shared and to the memory of his father.
Esony's mother, Aiko, joined him at the edge of the square, her voice a whisper.
"Arashi believed in a future where you could live in peace and safety. His sacrifice was not in vain."
"I know, Mother. I just wish I could make him proud. It feels like there's so much more I need to do," Esony said.
Aiko placed a comforting hand on Esony's shoulder.
"You are already making him proud. The strength and courage you show every day are a testament to his memory."
As the ceremony came to a close, the townspeople began to disperse, their conversations hushed and reflective. Esony and Aiko lingered for a moment, watching as the lanterns continued their slow ascent into the night sky.
"I promise to honor his memory and live up to the legacy he left behind," Esony said.
Aiko nodded, her eyes filled with pride and sadness.
"And we will be here, supporting you every step of the way."
With the memorial now over, Esony and his mother walked home, their hearts heavy but their spirits fortified by the collective memory of the town. The ceremony had not only honored the fallen but also reaffirmed their commitment to the values that had driven them to fight and rebuild.
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Rakusei No Ken Chapter 2:Civil War Recap
AdventureThe story of a boy named Esony who wants to become a great swordsman, His parents are with him in his dream in the town of Mizuno. But in an unexpected event, a meteorite fell containing evil elements, ghouls and villains. So the town formed an army...
