Chapter 396: returned from war
The gates of Vitalis stood wide open, and the cheers of thousands rolled like thunder across the stone walls.
Banners waved in the spring wind, deep crimson and royal gold, the colours of the kingdom fluttering proudly from rooftops, balconies, and every lantern pole lining the wide, paved road that led to the palace.
Cedric rode at the front of the procession with Alfonso by his side.
He looked like a dark knight in his black armour, sitting tall on his black horse, eyes fixed ahead. Alfonso, dressed in red armour, rose on his brown horse.
Cedric was a bit surprised at the reception. He had won many wars but this was the first time he had such a reception. Maybe it was because of the threat the alliance held. Disregarding everything he still rode along.
"This is grander than I imagined, General Cedric." Alfonso teased his brother. He had a more carefree appearance. Cedric didn’t answer him, which Alfonso expected. Alfonso looked ahead to the towering buildings, his mind thinking of someone he should not be. She was probably going to be excited to see her husband badly.
Behind them, rows and rows of tired but proud soldiers marched, many still bandaged, many holding their weapons high in silent pride. Some carried the battered flags of their regiments, others carried no more than the wounds they’d earned. The war wasn’t long, but it had caused a lot of casualties because of the Darkhavens.
Cedric was glad the Duchess Fiona figured things out. To whoever helped the duchess, he was forever grateful.
The crowd was massive, and it was a grand reception.