Demokracy: Nation Awaits

Chapter 33: A United Nation

Ventus 25, 1941

The sun had barely risen over Remdant City, but the energy in the streets was already electric. Every corner of Capital Square had been transformed in preparation for the 15th Anniversary of Eldoria's Independence, with banners in brilliant shades of red, white, and blue draped from balconies and lamp posts. People of all ages gathered, each wearing a piece of Eldoria's colors. The theme, "Fifteen Years of a United Nation," was emblazoned on every banner and echoed in the hearts of all who had come to witness the day's events.

A crowd had formed in front of the grand stage, where the Eldorian National Symphony Orchestra had just begun their overture. The melody filled the square, a beautiful reminder of the nation's heritage. Soon, a children's choir stepped forward, their voices merging in perfect harmony to deliver the national anthem. Young faces lit up as they sang, their innocence blending with the reverence of the moment.

"Look at them," President Denver Brooks murmured, gazing out at the crowd. Standing beside him was his close advisor, the Private Secretary and Chief of Staff of the Palace, Leona Frod. "Every face here holds the future of Eldoria."

Frod nodded, a proud smile on his face. "You know, I think this may be our most spectacular Independence Day yet."

Brooks chuckled softly. "Let's hope the speech lives up to the decorations," he replied, glancing down at his notes one last time.

When the orchestra quieted and the anthem ended, the square erupted in applause. President Brooks took his place at the podium, adjusting the microphone before he began.

"Fellow Eldorians," he began, his voice steady but carrying an emotion that resonated through the crowd. "Today, we gather to celebrate not only our independence but the unity, resilience, and spirit that have come to define us as a nation. We have journeyed together through challenges and triumphs, and I am humbled by the strength and courage shown by each of you."

A woman in the crowd, clutching her young daughter, leaned into whisper, "Remember this, Althea. This day is part of your story too."

Brooks continued, "Fifteen years may seem but a moment in history, yet in that time, we have laid the foundation of a future that will stand strong for generations. Our achievements are great, and our dreams are boundless. Today, let us recommit ourselves to building a nation worthy of those dreams."

The crowd erupted in cheers, hands waving and voices shouting in unison. "Eldoria!" they cried. "Eldoria forever!"

As the applause died down, Brooks motioned to the side of the stage. "And now, it is my privilege to welcome someone who has stood at the heart of our nation since its very first days. Please, join me in honoring our Founding Mother, Elandria Felora."

All eyes turned toward the stage as Elandria Felora emerged, her form slow but dignified. Beside her walked her great-grandson, Constantine, his small hand clutched tightly in hers. The crowd rose to their feet, a wave of reverence sweeping across the square. Whispers filled the air as people caught sight of the legendary woman.

"Look, Mama!" a boy said, tugging on his mother's sleeve. "That's her! The lady who started it all!"

Elandria, with a warm smile, raised her hand in acknowledgment, her eyes twinkling with pride and gratitude. She turned to Brooks, who extended his hand.

"It is an honor to have you here with us today, Madam President," he said, bowing slightly. "Your courage and vision have paved the way for the future of our nation."

Elandria's voice, though soft with age, still carried a strength that echoed through the square. "Thank you, President Brooks. I remember when all of this was just a dream, held close by a few of us who dared to imagine a free Eldoria. And here it is—more beautiful, more united than we ever could have imagined."

Constantine looked up at her, his young face lit with admiration. "Grandma" he whispered, tugging gently on her hand, "are all these people here because of you?"

Elandria bent down, her eyes meeting his. "They're here because of all of us, Constantine. Because of everyone who dared to believe in something greater than themselves."

President Brooks turned to the crowd. "In honor of Elandria's contributions and the legacy of her family, we present this commemorative plaque—a symbol of their place in Eldoria's heart and history."

The crowd clapped and cheered as Elandria and Constantine accepted the plaque, their bond bridging the past with the future. The moment was poignant, a perfect symbol of Eldoria's journey.

As evening settled over Remdant City, the crowd gathered along the riverbank for the fireworks. People whispered with excitement, young children perched on their parents' shoulders, waiting for the first explosion of light.

"You know," Elandria said softly to President Brooks, "when we fought for this nation, I never imagined I would live to see such a day."

Brooks looked at her with respect. "It's because of you that we're here, Madam President. This nation will always carry your legacy."

She nodded, her gaze fixed on the sky. "And now, it is your legacy too, President Brooks. Keep our Eldoria united."

With a sudden boom, the first firework burst above them, painting the night sky in shades of gold and crimson. The people gasped, voices filled with awe, as more colors followed—green, blue, purple—each one brighter and more magnificent than the last.

Constantine leaned into Elandria, watching the display with wide eyes. "Will there always be fireworks on this day, Grandma?"

Elandria wrapped an arm around him. "As long as there are people who believe in freedom and unity, Constantine, there will be fireworks."

The night sky continued to light up in a symphony of colors, each burst reflecting off the River Eldor, filling the square with light and hope. For a brief moment, every face in Remdant City looked upward, united in awe, embracing the future of Eldoria.

As the final firework sparkled and faded, President Brooks glanced back at Elandria, a renewed sense of purpose swelling in his heart. Eldoria was not just a land; it was a spirit—a spirit of courage, resilience, and unity.

And on that night, under a sky lit with the colors of freedom, they knew that Eldoria's journey was only just beginning.