"The survivors would envy the dead."
- Nikita Khrushchev
---
The man stood by the closet, wearing a slim-fit ivory cotton polo with subtle textured stitching, tucked neatly into beige chinos, a light brown leather belt cinching his waist, and brown loafers on his feet. He lifted a pair of black aviator sunglasses and hooked them casually on the collar of his shirt, then placed a crisp white fedora at a jaunty angle on his head.
KNOCK-KNOCK
Edward Laurent
"Who is it?"
"It's me, Father. Mother asked if you're ready."
Edward Laurent
"I'm almost done. Marie, tell your mother I'll be there in a moment."
Marie Laurent
"Okay, Father."
Few minutes later.
Outside the mansion.
Victor (Driver)
"Hello, Marie. Hello, Ruby. How are you today?"
Marie Laurent
"Hi, Victor! We're ready to go now. Hurry! Let's go, let's go."
Victoria Laurent
"Calm down, Marie. Let's wait for your father."
Edward Laurent
"Don't worry. I'm here."
Marie Laurent
"Yay! We can finally go."
Ruby Laurent
"You're so loud, Marie. We're going to a party with many influential people. You can't act immature now that Father is the president."
Marie Laurent
"Hmpp, whatever. You just don't want to be embarrassed in front of Isaac."
Ruby Laurent
"Marie!"
Edward Laurent
"Now, now. Let's get going. We don't want to be late."
The family entered the car and left the mansion.
---
Marie Laurent
"Father, you look great in that hat!"
Edward Laurent
"Thank you, Marie. I know I couldn't be around all of you much often, but I truly hope I can make up for it."
Victoria Laurent
"It's alright, Edward. We're proud of what you have achieved, and we're here to support you no matter what."
Ruby Laurent
"That's right, Father. We will always be here for you."
Marie Laurent
"Yes! Yes! We are!"
Victor (Driver)
"Yeah! We will, sir!"
...
Victor (Driver)
"Uh, sorry for intruding."
The Laurent family began to laugh.
Edward Laurent
"No need to apologize, Victor. You're welcome to join us."
Victor shyly smiled, feeling a bit embarrassed.
Victor (Driver)
"Of course, sir. Thank you very much. Ah, also, we're about to leave Novosol City. It'll take a few more minutes until we arrive in Vegal."
Edward Laurent
"Thank you for letting us know."
As they headed north toward the city of Vegal, many vehicles in front of and behind them seemed to be going in the same direction.
Marie Laurent
"Are they going to Isaac's birthday too, Father?"
Edward Laurent
"I don't think so."
Victor (Driver)
"Ah, they must be preparing for Athalea's 100th anniversary since its founding in 1861."
Edward Laurent
"But isn't the anniversary still next week?"
Victor (Driver)
"Well, we Athaleans like to be ready. It's better to be prepared than not-that's our motto. There will probably be many stalls set up at Bronze Park starting tomorrow."
Ruby Laurent
"But why are they going to Vegal instead of Novosol?"
Victoria Laurent
"Because Vegal was the original capital of Athalea during Campbell. As the first city, it was where the earliest settlers lived and built the community, which is why it remained such an important cultural and population center."
Edward Laurent
"I think I can adjust my schedule on Friday. We could visit the stalls and spend some family time together."
Marie Laurent
"Yay, that sounds like fun. I can't wait."
---
The car parked in front of Benson Bruce's house. As soon as it stopped, reporters coming from behind began surrounding the car, taking pictures and pushing microphones toward the windows. The Presidential Guards immediately stepped in to control the situation as the Laurent family exited the vehicle.
Victor (Driver)
"Have a wonderful day, sir."
Edward Laurent
"Thank you, Victor. If the situation clears up, make sure to come inside to eat."
Victor (Driver)
"Thank you for your concern, sir.I'll make sure to be there in a minute."
Suddenly, a woman reporter managed to get past one of the guards and put her microphone next to Edward.
Woman Reporter
"Mr. President, have you begun taking actions to protect the people of Arvos? What are these actions, and how will they stop the rebel attacks? What immediate help is being given to the citizens who have already lost their homes? Are the people of Arvos your top priority as you begin your term?"
Edward Laurent
"I understand the concern, and I want to be clear. My administration and the cabinet are actively working on a comprehensive plan to address the situation in Arvos. Measures are already being coordinated with our security forces and local authorities. However, I cannot disclose specific details at this time, as doing so could risk leaks that may be exploited by the group involved. What I can assure the public is that protecting our people is a priority, and support for displaced families is already being arranged through the appropriate agencies."
Woman Reporter
"So does that mean you still do not have a complete plan in place, Mr. President? The group has been terrorizing the region for almost a month now, yet you chose to attend a birthday celebration today instead of addressing the crisis directly?"
Edward Laurent
"That is not what I said."
Suddenly, another reporter managed to get past the guards. Then another. As more and more slipped through, the police immediately tried to contain the crowd. One guards tackled a reporter to prevent them from advancing further.
Presidential Guard 1
"Mr. President, we should proceed inside."
Male Reporter
"Mr. President, there are rumors that the FDR (Federation of Democratic Republics) and the LSP (Leoness States Pact) held a private meeting earlier this month. Does the CWN (Council of World Nations) have any knowledge of this, and if so, could this indicate that the CWN is no longer as influential, if major alliances are able to conduct significant international talks without its awareness?"
Presidential Guard 2
"That's enough!"
---
Benson Bruce
"Didn't think you'd show up."
Edward Laurent
"Why would I not attend my only godson's birthday? Not to mention, I can finally taste some good cooking."
Both laughed.
Victoria Laurent
"Excuse me?"
Edward Laurent
"Nothing, nothing, honey. Anyway, let's get inside?"
Benson Bruce
"That's right, welcome, welcome, please come in.
The family entered the house.
Benson Bruce
"But still, I didn't expect these reporters' dedication. They've been blocking my front yard since this morning."
Edward Laurent
"I guess it's one of those things that comes with being in position. But let's not talk about politics. It's your son's celebration after all."
Benson Bruce
"That's right. Anyway, most of the guests are in the backyard. Just make yourselves feel at home, alright?"
Marie & Ruby
"Yes, Uncle Benson."
---
Mr. Pollo Johnson
"Mr. President, it's nice to have you here with us today."
Edward Laurent
"Mr. Pollo, the pleasure is all mine. And also, I believe you're familiar with my wife, Victoria."
Victoria Laurent
"Hello, Mr. Pollo. It's always a pleasure to meet you, sir. I sure hope you still remember me."
Mr. Pollo Johnson
"Hahaha, how could I forget about you, Victoria? You're one of my top students. I still remember the time we debated about which formula is better for solving quadratic equations."
Victoria Laurent
"Ah, yes. I remember those good old days."
Edward Laurent
"Ah, that's right. You're currently the president of Novosol State University, if I'm correct?"
Mr. Pollo Johnson
"Yes. I was actually planning to retire later this year, but since the death of my beloved Joan earlier this August (former president of NSU), the faculty had decided to have me succeed her."
Edward Laurent
"We understand, Mr. Pollo, and please accept our condolences. We are saddened by her passing. Her leadership and vision as president inspired many, and her legacy will be remembered."
Mr. Pollo Johnson
"Thank you for such kind words, Mr. President. She would be more than happy to hear such words from you."
Marie Laurent
"Father, father, can you help me open this bottle?"
Edward Laurent
"Ah, yes, dear... Here you go."
Marie Laurent
"Thank you, Father."
Victoria Laurent
"Should we go now?"
Edward Laurent
"Alright, then. Mr. Pollo, I'll see you outside."
Mr. Pollo nod in agreement.
Mr. Pollo Johnson
"Oh, and by the way, Edward. Have you heard anything from Howard yet?"
Edward Laurent
"Not in my knowledge. Why?"
Mr. Pollo Johnson
"I think he just arrived in the country yesterday. That man's getting old by the day—you should at least see him before he dies. Hahaha."
Edward Laurent
"Hahaha, I'll keep that in mind, Mr. Pollo. Thank you for telling me."
---
The backyard was neatly arranged for the party, decorated with simple yet elegant blue accents. A long table held plates of Athealan Beef Jumar, Boondefe, Amagous, Spaghetti, Salad, and freshly baked Brownies, with a modest Cake at the center. And of course, the usual Velmorian Vodka.
Around 11:25 Isaac finally left his room. He made his way toward the guests, exchanging greetings one by one. After a moment, After a moment, Ruby approached him, they talked quietly for a while near the edge of the gathering. Then shortly after, Benson signaled to Isaac, indicating the start of the celebration. Everyone present immediately sat down on their chairs.
Benson Bruce
"Welcome, everyone! I just want to take a moment to thank you all for coming today. It means a lot to Isaac and to our family to have you here."
Isaac Bruce
"Thank you, everyone. I'm really happy you could make it. I hope you enjoy the party!"
Benson Bruce
"Before we start our feast, I'm sure one of you is eager to make a toast. Edward, would you please come in front and give a wonderful speech?"
Edward leaned close to Victoria saying.
Edward Laurent
"I knew it."
Victoria gave a short laugh.
Victoria Laurent
"Go on now. We don't want to keep everyone waiting."
Edward Laurent
"Alright, alright."
Edward Laurent stepped forward when the microphone was handed to him. He stood straight in front of everyone, took off his fedora, and held it in his hand before speaking.
Edward Laurent
"Hello, everyone. As you all know, we are here today to celebrate the 14th birthday of Isaac Benson. Isaac, to me, growing up means accepting responsibility, no longer blaming others for your failures, and learning to deal with the consequences of your actions. At your age, life will slowly begin to demand more from you-more responsibility, more patience, and more understanding. You are surrounded by people who believe in you, and that is something not everyone is fortunate to have. Treasure that, and one day, return the same kindness to others."
Edward Laurent
"So, everyone, please raise your glasses. To Isaac-may your future be bright, steady, and filled with purpose. Happy birthday."
Everyone
"Happy Birthday Isa-"
...
...
...
SHOOK!!
...
GET DOWN!!!
...
A sudden, powerful shockwave hit the venue. Tables flipped, glasses broke, and everyone was pushed aside as people began falling hard to the ground.
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
Edward... be brave, alright? I know you are a very strong boy...
...
...
And... I know you can make the world a better place... That is your dream, right?...
...
...
We... we will meet again, alright?...
...
...
I...
...
...
I love you...
...
...
...
...
...
Edward...
Edward... Edward...
...
Victoria Laurent
"Edward! Wake up!"
Edward slowly stood up. There were clear bruises on his hands, and blood covered his forehead as he touched his head.
Edward Laurent
"The children! Where are they?"
Victoria Laurent
"Edward, they are safe. Please do not move yet. The emergency team will be here soon."
Edward could feel Victoria's shaking hands as she held his hands tightly.
Presidential Guard
"Mr. President. They are here. Hold still, sir."
The presidential guards carried Edward. As they reached the ambulance, a group of men arrived at the scene. It was Gregory Derek and his men.
Gregory Derek (Minister of Defense)
"Mr. President, are you all right, sir? I know this is not the best place to say this, but I believe this is far more urgent."
Medic
"Forgive me, sir. But the President needs to go."
Edward Laurent
"Wait! Derek, tell me what happened."
Gregory Derek (Minister of Defense)
"Sir, the shockwave we felt earlier came from PULSAR. They filed a report just a few minutes ago. They have created a bomb far more powerful than the Anton Bomb (the atomic bomb of Mosullea)."
Gregory Derek (Minister of Defense)
"What... what are we going to do now, sir?"