101

The grand hall was illuminated with a warm, golden glow, the feast in full swing as revelers indulged in lavish delicacies and fine drinks. Laughter and chatter filled the air, a façade of celebration masking the tensions and allegiances that ran beneath the surface.

At the front of the hall, a raised platform had been set up for the speakers. General Allistair stood at the center, his uniform impeccable, his gaze steady. The coordinator gestured for him to step forward, and the general did so, facing the expectant crowd.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” Allistair’s voice boomed, commanding the attention of the assembly. “Tonight, as we gather to celebrate, we also gather to acknowledge the dawn of a new era.”

The crowd’s murmurs died down, anticipation in their eyes.

Allistair’s gaze swept over the crowd, his expression earnest. “Our realm has seen its share of challenges and trials. We have been tested, pushed to our limits. But in these times of uncertainty, we have been graced by the prese