Chapter 48 Welcome Back

The morning dawned crisp and clear, the air filled with the promise of a journey's end. Tatsuo and Ahtris, accompanied by their formidable escort of 200 Tiger Guard, resumed their travel, the imposing silhouette of Dragonsden City growing larger with each passing mile. A sense of anticipation filled the carriage, the culmination of their long journey drawing near.

As they approached the city gates, a magnificent sight unfolded before them. A line of Lion Cavalry, mounted upon their majestic warbeasts, the Tall Lions, stood in formation, their polished armor gleaming in the sunlight. The sheer power and discipline of the cavalrymen were palpable, a testament to the city's formidable defenses. Rare Commander Alaric Stoneheart, his expression resolute, gave them a crisp salute, a gesture of respect and loyalty.

Above, the skies were alive with the roar of Wyvern Knights, their magnificent mounts soaring in synchronized formations. Streams of fire erupted from their mouths, blazing across the sky, a spectacular display of aerial prowess and a fiery welcome to their lord and lady.

As the carriage passed through the gates, the scene shifted, revealing a line of Drake Guards, their imposing figures standing at attention. Rare Commander Edald and Rare Commander Rudy stood at the forefront, their faces stern and proud. Following them, the Blackrose soldiers, under the command of Clash Commander Valerius Blackrose, stood in perfect formation, their disciplined ranks a testament to their rigorous training.

Moving deeper into the city, another group of soldiers lined the streets, their faces familiar to Tatsuo. These were the members of his original brigade, the men who had stood by his side from the very beginning. Their presence was a comforting reminder of the bonds forged in battle and the unwavering loyalty that permeated his forces.

When the carriage finally came to a halt, Tatsuo and Ahtris disembarked, their eyes taking in the grand spectacle before them. His original prince guards, clad in custom-made prince armor, their chests emblazoned with his personal sigil, the black dragon spreading its wings, stood at attention, their expressions filled with unwavering devotion.

At the end of the line, two figures stood waiting, their presence radiating an aura of wisdom and experience. Baron Rota Uno, his first knight, his loyal companion, and Adviser Hui Cheng, his master and adviser, his trusted confidant, stood side by side, their faces etched with warmth and welcome.

Tatsuo smiled, his heart swelling with pride and affection. "Rota," he said, his voice filled with warmth, "Hui Cheng, it is good to be home."

Rota stepped forward, his expression resolute. "Welcome home, Your Highness," he said, his voice filled with unwavering loyalty. "And welcome, Princess Ahtris. Dragonsden City is honored to have you."

Hui Cheng bowed slightly, his expression serene. "Welcome, Your Highness," he said, his voice calm and composed. "And welcome, Princess Ahtris. May your presence bring prosperity and joy to Dragonsden City."

Tatsuo turned to Ahtris, his eyes filled with warmth and affection. "Ahtris," he said, his voice gentle, "welcome to Dragonsden City, our home."

Ahtris, her eyes wide with awe and admiration, surveyed the magnificent scene before her. "It's… magnificent," she breathed, her voice filled with wonder. "I can see why you're so proud of this place."

Tatsuo smiled, his heart filled with a sense of contentment. He had returned to his domain, his wife by his side, his loyal forces surrounding him. He was home.

"Dragonsden City," Tatsuo announced, his voice ringing out across the assembled crowd, "today marks not only our return but the beginning of a new era. Therefore, I declare three days of celebration!"

A roar of approval erupted from the assembled soldiers and citizens, their cheers echoing through the streets. The atmosphere instantly transformed, a wave of jubilant energy washing over the city. Tatsuo's announcement was met with unrestrained enthusiasm, a collective release of pent-up anticipation and joy.

"Let the feasts begin!" Tatsuo proclaimed, his voice filled with warmth. "Let the music play, and let the wine flow! We shall celebrate the union of our kingdoms and the prosperity of Dragonsden County!"

Immediately, the city sprang to life. Servants scurried to prepare grand feasts, tables laden with delicacies appearing as if by magic. Musicians tuned their instruments, their melodies filling the air with a festive rhythm. The streets, once lined with soldiers, now filled with citizens, their faces beaming with excitement.

Ahtris, her eyes wide with wonder, watched as the city transformed around her. She was captivated by the sheer energy and enthusiasm of the people, their unwavering loyalty to Tatsuo palpable.

"This is… incredible," she murmured, her voice filled with awe. "I've never seen such a display of celebration."

Tatsuo smiled, his eyes filled with pride. "Dragonsden City knows how to celebrate," he said. "And they have much to celebrate."

He led Ahtris through the bustling streets, introducing her to the city's key figures, the merchants, the artisans, and the common folk. Each encounter was met with warmth and respect, the citizens eager to welcome their new princess.

The first day of celebrations focused on feasting and merriment. Grand tables were set up in the city square, laden with roasted meats, fresh fruits, and sweet pastries. Wine flowed freely, and laughter filled the air. Tatsuo and Ahtris mingled with the crowd, sharing stories and laughter, their presence bringing joy to all.

The second day was dedicated to martial displays and competitions. The city's soldiers showcased their skills in archery, swordsmanship, and horsemanship, their performances drawing gasps and cheers from the crowd. Ahtris, her eyes gleaming with excitement, watched the displays with keen interest, her own martial spirit ignited.

The Wyvern Knights took to the skies, their aerial acrobatics a breathtaking spectacle. They performed intricate maneuvers, their wyverns weaving through the air with grace and precision. Ahtris, herself a skilled rider, was particularly impressed by their aerial prowess.

The third day was reserved for a grand tournament, pitting the city's strongest warriors against each other. Knights and soldiers clashed in the arena, their battles a display of skill and strength. Tatsuo, though tempted to join the fray, refrained, allowing his warriors to shine.

Ahtris, however, could not resist the allure of the tournament. She donned her armor and stepped into the arena, her presence drawing gasps from the crowd. Her skill and determination were evident, her movements swift and decisive. She fought with a fierce determination, earning the respect and admiration of the crowd.

Throughout the three days of celebrations, Tatsuo and Ahtris were inseparable, their bond growing stronger with each passing moment. They shared laughter, stories, and dreams, their connection deepening into a profound understanding.

As the celebrations drew to a close, Tatsuo and Ahtris stood on the balcony of their residence, overlooking the city. The lights of the festival twinkled below, a testament to the joy and prosperity of Dragonsden City.

"These past three days have been… extraordinary," Ahtris said, her voice filled with emotion. "I've never felt so welcomed, so at home."

Tatsuo smiled, his eyes filled with warmth. "Dragonsden City is your home now," he said. "And its people are your people."

He took her hand, his touch gentle and reassuring. "Together," he said, "we will guide this city to even greater heights."

Ahtris nodded, her eyes filled with determination. "Together," she echoed.