Chapter 22: Fall of Fallens, Rise of Risings

Alzalel lingered beside Kaiser, watching as the violet mark on his forearm—left by the Sanguine Maledict—began to fade. The curse had finally started lifting.

"I guess our business with that witch is over," Alzalel remarked, stretching his arms. "How about we check the room now?"

Kaiser, though still trembling from exhaustion, steadied himself and approached the barred door. With a firm kick, the rusted hinges gave way, revealing a dimly lit chamber. Inside, bound to a chair and blindfolded, was a young girl. She struggled against her restraints, her voice filled with desperation.

"Who is that? I told you—I am not what you think I am!" she shouted, writhing against the ropes.

Kaiser stepped forward, his voice calm yet firm. "Angels and demons are all beautiful."

The girl froze. Her breath hitched.

"Who are you? How do you know those words?" she whispered.

Kaiser met her unseeing gaze. "Roland told me. He said I'd find you."

A moment of silence hung in the air before the girl's lips curled into a bittersweet smile. "Papa..."

The girl was none other than Mariposa Vask, the seventeen-year-old daughter of Roland Vask. Known for her extensive knowledge of healing herbs, she had been kidnapped by Dante Viel for reasons still unknown. Now, at last, she was free.

Kaiser and Mariposa stepped out into the front yard of the fort, where the remaining resistance forces had gathered. As they emerged, the crowd erupted into cheers. Some wept openly, their cries of joy echoing through the war-torn ruins. The sight extended beyond—on the distant field where Yore's forces stood, the soldiers too raised their voices in celebration.

Kaiser, bloodied yet victorious, raised his clenched fist high into the air. The Grimknights, his comrades, followed suit, raising their fists in unison. At the edge of the gathering, Bjorn, who had finally returned to the fort, lifted both of his arms in triumph.

At the Palace of Yore

From the grand balcony, Jeffrey Maxim addressed the people of Woodsaw.

"With peace restored, we will elevate the quality of life in Woodsaw. No longer will we allow suffering to define this city. I promise reforms—better housing, greater opportunities, and protection for those who need it."

He turned toward the Royal Guards and the distinguished guests, acknowledging their efforts.

"I extend my deepest gratitude to King Dimas and the Royal Guards for their support. Without them, this victory would not have been possible."

Squatters District

Mariposa's tears fell freely as she received the news—her father, Roland Vask, had perished in the battle.

Gregory, standing beside her, placed a gentle hand on her head. "Be proud, child. Your father died with a smile on his face. He was a hero."

At the old ruins of the Squatters District, Henry Guhn stood before a gathered crowd, the Grimknights by his side.

"We are honored to declare that the Squatters District is finally free of the revolutionaries. Roland Vask sacrificed himself selflessly, so that we may stand here today."

The crowd erupted into applause, cheers resounding through the streets.

"Roland Vask gave his life to protect this place. Let us not forget his sacrifice. Roland Vask was a hero!"

As the speeches concluded, a Woodsaw army unit arrived. Their leader, an old acquaintance of Henry Guhn, stepped forward with a knowing smile.

"The leader, Jeffrey Maxim, has recognized the resistance's efforts in restoring peace here," he announced. "He extends an invitation to the Grims."

A murmur passed through the crowd.

From the side, Espada suddenly chuckled, clutching her stomach. "The Grims, huh?" she mused, still laughing.

Elric caught her reaction and smirked. "Seems like it's catching on."

Henry Guhn approached the army captain, shaking his head. "We're glad to have helped restore peace here, but I won't be heading to Yore."

The captain smirked, extending a hand. "As always, too proud. I wish you the best."

The two warriors clasped hands in mutual respect.

Before the Woodsaw army could depart, Henry Guhn called out.

"Perhaps you can do me a favor. From now on, this place shall no longer be called the Squatters District."

He turned to Mariposa, a silent question in his eyes.

She took a deep breath. "Vask's Resting," she declared.

Henry nodded.

The captain smiled. "I'll see to it. Consider it done."

The Legacy of Woodsaw

A brief history of Woodsaw unfolded—once known as Terresan, the nation had undergone a drastic transformation when Jeffrey Maxim rose to power, renaming it to Woodsaw as a symbol of change. Now, yet another chapter was being written.

In the newly christened Vask's Resting, the people gathered once more.

"Who will lead us now?" someone asked aloud.

One voice rose among the murmurs. "It should be Mariposa."

She smirked, shaking her head. "It would be an honor… but I have set a new path for my journey."

She turned toward Kaiser.

"I will be with him."

Gasps rippled through the crowd, even Nyx looking utterly stunned.