At the Arcana Federation Palace, a large gathering of people stood on the field, brimming with enthusiasm.
Among them were women, men, and even children, all eager to witness the historic moment when peace between Earth and Mars would be forged.
This event was undeniably a pivotal point in history, one that no Earth inhabitant could afford to miss.
Despite lingering resentment for the Martian attack on Earth, the incredible power of Genesis, far beyond their comprehension, compelled them to believe that forging peace was preferable to living in perpetual fear.
"Damn it! It's unbelievably crowded, and I can't even see the end of the palace!" Ethan exclaimed in shock as he surveyed the throngs of people who had gathered to witness this momentous occasion.
Aether's delay only added to the challenge of penetrating deeper into the palace's main grounds.
"I really didn't expect it to be this crowded," Aether remarked in a hushed tone while sipping on a can of soda.
He gazed at the bustling atmosphere around them.
The media influence wielded by the three federations had undeniably succeeded in stirring public enthusiasm, far surpassing the earlier protests.
What was more, attendees hail not only from the eastern region under the Arcana Federation's rule but also from other regions and continents governed by the remaining two federations.
The massive number of people here was hardly surprising.
"It's still only around ten in the morning, and there might be another wave of arrivals," Aether remarked, checking his watch on his left wrist with indifference.
"You're right, there could be more people coming, and even though we arrived early, getting a closer spot seems impossible," Ethan sighed, munching on his potato chips.
"Hey~ knowing this, maybe I should have used my father's connections to secure us better seats, don't you think, Aether?" Ethan asked, a tinge of regret in his voice.
In response, Aether simply shook his head and regarded him with a measured look.
"Indeed, asking your father, a Federation minister, would make it a simple task. Nevertheless, it might not be the most convenient option, given that your every move would be closely tracked by the Guardian Army for safety. I presume that's not your preferred situation, is it?" Aether quipped.
"Exactly! I'd rather not be under my father's thumb. It's better to be on my own and avoid his endless lectures," Ethan grinned, his hand reaching for another potato chip from Aether's earlier snack bag.
Aether couldn't help but smile, realizing the idiosyncratic nature of his friend.
As the sole offspring of one of the three Federation ministers, Ethan held a special place in his father's heart.
However, sometimes his father's affection manifested in peculiar ways, often coming across as overly demanding and uncomfortable for Ethan.
Whenever his father was around, Ethan preferred to make a quick exit.
Aether himself shared a close enough relationship with Ethan's father, often engaging in conversations about Ethan's well-being.
This demonstrated Aether's genuine care for his friend.
"By the way, Aether, did you inform your father about coming here?" Ethan inquired, his words somewhat muffled due to a mouthful of potato chips.
In response, Aether recalled his brief conversation with his father the previous night, resulting in a faint smile.
"Yes, I spoke to him last night," Aether replied tersely, his thoughts remaining elusive.
Upon hearing his friend's succinct response, Ethan merely nodded, deciding not to delve any further.
He understood that the relationship between Aether and his father was strained, and he didn't wish to intrude into his friend's personal matters.
After all, Aether's father held a position of immense power as the leader of the Arcana Federation, essentially making Aether a prince in the eastern region and continent, given his status as the only son of a Federation leader.
Consequently, Ethan opted not to press further on this subject.
"Alright, let's move further into the palace. After all, we won't be able to witness the treaty from the palace gates," Aether suggested with a hint of humor.
"Yes, you're absolutely right! Let's head inside," Ethan responded excitedly, and the two of them ventured deeper into the palace grounds, joined by a stream of others making their way inside.
However, as they continued, the southern sky suddenly darkened, and a colossal ship approached the Arcana Federation palace.
This unexpected sight sent shivers through the crowd gathered in the palace courtyard.
"Look! What's that?" someone exclaimed in surprise, pointing at the massive black object.
"That's right! What is it?" echoed the growing chorus of astonished voices, sparking a flurry of animated discussions.
Aether and Ethan halted in their tracks, their attention drawn to the unfolding incident.
Ethan grabbed Aether's arm in a state of shock.
"What in the world is that?!" Ethan exclaimed, his voice trembling with astonishment as he shook Aether.
Aether, too, was initially taken aback by the sight of the large black object approaching from the south.
However, a faint smile crept onto his lips as he whispered, "It seems the Dremon troops are finally arriving, and I believe my big sister might be among them.