The morning of Nyra Valecrest's funeral arrived beneath a clear blue sky.
Sunlight spilled through the windows of Building One, illuminating the familiar walls of Room B-17. Beyond the glass, the Academy grounds were unusually quiet. The distant sounds of training exercises had been replaced by the occasional footsteps of soldiers moving between buildings and the low hum of military transports arriving near the ceremonial grounds.
David Wyn stood before the mirror, fastening the final button of his formal military uniform.
The dark fabric fit comfortably across his chest, but his injured shoulder protested whenever he raised his arm. Two weeks of unconsciousness had left his body weaker than he wanted to admit, and the wounds he had suffered during the final battle on Kharos Vale were still healing.
He ignored the discomfort.
Today was not about him.
Behind him, Castiel Nightvale adjusted the collar of his own uniform. His silver-white hair had been combed back more neatly than usual, although several stubborn strands had already fallen across his forehead.
David glanced at him through the mirror.
"You're going to spend all morning fixing that."
Castiel looked up.
"Fixing what?"
"Your hair."
Castiel studied his reflection.
"It's called making an effort, D. You should try it sometime."
David looked down at his own uniform.
"I am making an effort."
"Then you might want to straighten your collar."
David frowned and examined it.
There was nothing wrong with it.
He turned toward Castiel.
"Seriously?"
Castiel's mouth curved slightly.
"Got you."
David shook his head, but a faint smile appeared before fading.
For a few moments, neither spoke.
Castiel finished fastening his jacket and turned toward the door.
"Lucian says everyone's meeting downstairs."
David nodded.
"Okay."
He reached toward the desk, where his communicator rested beside the case containing Sanguine Thorn.
The crimson rapier had remained untouched since Commander Vance returned it to him.
David's gaze lingered on the case.
He remembered Vireth.
The battlefield.
Nyra falling.
His fingers tightened around the communicator.
Castiel noticed.
"D?"
David looked away from the weapon.
"I'm coming."
Castiel studied him for a moment, then nodded.
Together, they left Room B-17.
Lucian Bloodthrone waited near the entrance of Building One.
He wore the same formal black-and-silver uniform as the others, its polished insignia catching the morning light. His red hair had been neatly arranged, and although his injuries had healed considerably during the weeks since Kharos Vale, he still moved with occasional stiffness.
Mira Solen stood beside him.
Her ash-brown hair was pulled back, and her expression remained composed. The twin blades she normally carried were absent, replaced by the ceremonial insignia of the Unified Defense Command.
June Kade leaned against a nearby pillar.
He was attempting to adjust the collar of his uniform with one hand while carefully avoiding unnecessary movement of his injured shoulder.
"This thing is trying to strangle me," he muttered.
Mira glanced at him.
"Stop pulling at it."
"I would, but I enjoy breathing."
She stepped closer and straightened the collar for him.
"There."
June looked down.
"That's better. You should consider opening a tailoring business."
"Only if you're my first customer."
"Absolutely not. I've seen what you do with blades."
Lucian shook his head.
"Can we go?"
June looked toward David and Castiel.
"Finally. I was starting to think you two were planning to miss your own entrance."
Castiel raised an eyebrow.
"Some of us know how to dress ourselves."
June glanced toward Mira.
"Apparently, I'm not one of them."
A faint smile touched David's face.
For a brief moment, they sounded like themselves again.
Then Lucian looked toward the distant ceremonial grounds.
"We should get moving."
The others nodded.
Together, the five surviving members of Gamma Squad stepped out into the morning sunlight.
The Academy looked much as it always had.
Its towering buildings rose above broad courtyards and carefully maintained pathways. Flags bearing humanity's military insignia hung from the central administration building, while the distant arena stood silent beyond the training grounds.
Yet something about the familiar surroundings felt different.
David had walked these paths countless times with Nyra.
Sometimes they had been heading toward training.
Sometimes toward the dining hall.
And sometimes they had simply been walking together, talking about things that had nothing to do with the Academy.
He remembered the way she would tilt her head when she thought he was being too serious.
The way the pink highlights in her silver-white hair caught the sunlight.
The small scar along her cheek.
He kept walking.
Castiel remained beside him.
Neither said anything.
The Academy's ceremonial grounds had been prepared for the funeral.
Rows of military personnel stood in organized formations around a broad stone plaza. Officers from the Unified Defense Command occupied the forward sections, while instructors and cadets filled the surrounding seating areas.
Hundreds had gathered.
At the center of the memorial platform rested a closed coffin, draped in the military flag of humanity.
Its dark fabric bore the silver insignia of the Unified Defense Command, surrounded by the colors representing humanity's united territories.
Beside it stood a large portrait of Nyra Valecrest.
David stopped walking.
In the photograph, Nyra wore her Academy uniform.
Her silver-white hair fell around her shoulders, the faint pink highlights visible near the ends. The familiar scar along her cheek was unmistakable.
She was smiling.
Not the formal expression soldiers usually wore for official portraits.
A genuine smile.
The kind David remembered seeing when she was happy.
Flowers surrounded the portrait, many tied with pale blue ribbons matching the energy of her Wind Crest Swords.
David stared at the photograph.
For a moment, he could almost imagine her stepping out from behind it, laughing at how serious everyone looked.
Lucian touched his arm.
"David."
He blinked.
Lucian nodded toward the front row.
"Come on."
David followed the others to their seats.
They sat together.
Five chairs.
David tried not to think about the sixth person who should have been sitting beside them.
A military band began playing a quiet ceremonial melody.
The honor guard assembled around the coffin, six soldiers in immaculate uniforms taking their positions with precise, synchronized movements.
Commander Elara Vance arrived shortly afterward.
Her injured arm remained secured in a sling, and heavy bandages covered her opposite shoulder beneath her formal uniform. Despite her injuries, she walked with the same controlled confidence she had shown throughout their training.
She glanced toward Gamma Squad as she passed.
For a moment, her eyes rested on the empty space beside them.
Then she continued toward the officers' section.
A short while later, the ceremonial officer raised his hand.
"All personnel, attention!"
The assembled soldiers rose.
A procession of senior military officers entered the plaza.
At its center walked Supreme Commander Alaric Voss.
He wore the formal black-and-silver uniform of humanity's highest military command, its shoulders marked with the insignia of the Unified Defense Command. Rows of decorations covered his chest, each representing campaigns and conflicts fought across humanity's territories.
His hair had begun to gray, and deep lines marked a face that had witnessed decades of war.
Yet there was nothing uncertain about the way he carried himself.
When he reached the podium, he did not immediately speak.
Instead, he turned toward Nyra's coffin.
For several seconds, he stood facing it.
Then he lowered his head.
The assembled soldiers remained motionless.
David watched from the front row, his hands resting against his sides.
Voss finally turned toward the audience.
"Officers of the Unified Defense Command. Instructors and cadets of the Academy. Honored guests. And the men and women who returned from Kharos Vale."
His voice carried across the plaza through the ceremonial sound system.
"We are gathered today to remember those who gave their lives in service to humanity, and to pay our final respects to a young woman whose courage deserves to be remembered long after this generation has passed."
His gaze moved toward the flag-draped coffin.
"Nyra Valecrest."
David felt his chest tighten.
Hearing her name spoken before so many people made everything seem more permanent.
Voss continued.
"Nyra Valecrest entered this Academy as a cadet. Like thousands before her, she came here to learn what it meant to serve humanity. She trained alongside her fellow cadets, faced the challenges placed before her, and prepared herself for the responsibilities that would one day be entrusted to her."
He paused.
"But the battlefield does not always wait for training to be completed."
His expression grew solemn.
"On Kharos Vale, Nyra Valecrest faced the realities of war. She fought alongside humanity's soldiers, endured the hardships of a prolonged campaign, and stood against enemies whose strength far exceeded her own."
Voss turned toward the coffin.
"She entered this Academy as a cadet."
His voice carried across the silent plaza.
"But she fought and died as a soldier."
The words settled over the memorial grounds.
"Therefore, by my authority as Supreme Commander of the Unified Defense Command, Nyra Valecrest shall receive full military honors, with every distinction and respect afforded to a fallen soldier of humanity."
He straightened.
"Today, we do not say farewell to Cadet Nyra Valecrest."
His gaze returned to her portrait.
"We honor Soldier Nyra Valecrest."
Throughout the memorial grounds, the assembled soldiers stood at attention.
Voss lowered his head toward the coffin.
"Her courage earned that title. Her sacrifice ensured that it will never be forgotten."
A gentle breeze moved through the flags surrounding the plaza.
Voss continued.
"For months, our forces fought on Kharos Vale. They endured hostile terrain, relentless attacks from creatures that had not yet been eliminated, and the presence of Fallen military forces determined to prevent humanity from completing the planet's conversion."
He paused.
"Many of those soldiers were young. Some had only recently completed their training. Yet they were asked to face dangers that would have tested the resolve of our most experienced veterans."
The Supreme Commander looked across the gathered formations.
"They did not abandon their duty."
His voice grew firmer.
"They held their positions. They protected one another. And when the enemy attempted to break them, they continued fighting."
David lowered his gaze.
He remembered the months they had spent on Kharos Vale.
The endless patrols.
The creatures that emerged from the forests and ravines.
The nights when Gamma Squad had slept in their armor because another attack could come at any moment.
And the final battle.
Vireth.
Nyra.
Voss continued.
"On the final day of the campaign, humanity's forces faced a Fallen Lord whose power exceeded that of nearly every soldier on the battlefield."
A murmur passed through a few sections of the audience before fading.
"Blood Ascendant Vireth Kael'tharyn. Level Forty-Five."
David's fingers tightened.
"His presence threatened the lives of our soldiers and the completion of a campaign that had already cost humanity dearly."
Voss rested his hands against the podium.
"Yet even against such an enemy, our soldiers refused to surrender."
He turned slightly toward the five members of Gamma Squad.
"And among those who stood against that darkness were six young soldiers whose actions helped change the fate of an entire world."
David slowly raised his eyes.
Voss looked toward Nyra's portrait.
"Only five returned."
The words settled over the plaza.
For several moments, the Supreme Commander remained silent.
Then he continued.
"Whitefall was achieved on Kharos Vale. The planet was transformed, the Fallen were ordered to withdraw, and under the Treaty of Aurelion, Kharos Vale became sovereign territory of humanity."
He paused.
"That victory belongs to every soldier who fought for it. But victory does not erase the lives we lost."
Voss turned toward the coffin.
"Nor should it."
A quiet breeze moved through the flowers surrounding Nyra's portrait.
David stared at her smiling face.
"Today," Voss continued, "we honor the courage of those who survived, and we remember the sacrifice of the soldier who did not."
He straightened.
"Let the decorations ceremony begin."
A senior military officer stepped forward carrying a ceremonial case.
Inside rested several medals, each arranged upon dark velvet beneath the insignia of the Unified Defense Command.
Voss turned toward the front row.
"Lucian Bloodthrone."
Lucian immediately straightened.
"Sir!"
"Step forward."
Lucian moved into the central aisle and approached the platform.
David watched as his friend came to attention before the Supreme Commander.
Voss studied him.
"Lucian Bloodthrone."
During the final battle on Kharos Vale, you demonstrated extraordinary courage and selflessness while confronting an enemy of overwhelming strength."
The Supreme Commander looked toward the assembled soldiers.
"While humanity's forces fought to secure the planet, Lucian Bloodthrone and Castiel Nightvale engaged a Level Thirty Fallen soldier."
A quiet murmur moved through the audience.
"The enemy possessed considerable strength and combat experience. Despite fighting together, both soldiers found themselves facing an opponent capable of overwhelming their defenses."
Voss turned his attention back toward Lucian.
"As the engagement continued, you recognized an opportunity to end the battle. However, doing so required one of you to place himself directly in the enemy's path."
Lucian remained at attention.
"You made that decision without hesitation."
Voss paused.
"Knowing the danger, you deliberately allowed the Fallen soldier's blade to pierce your side, accepting a wound that could have cost you your life. Rather than retreat, you seized the opportunity to close the distance and hold your enemy in place."
Voss paused, allowing the assembled soldiers to understand the gravity of what he was describing.
"With the enemy's sword still embedded in your body, you refused to release him. Despite the excruciating pain and the severity of your injury, you held your ground, preventing the Fallen soldier from breaking free or defending himself."
The Supreme Commander's expression grew solemn.
"Your actions created the opening Castiel Nightvale needed. While you held the enemy at a standstill, Castiel delivered the final blow, eliminating the Level Thirty Fallen soldier."
Voss looked directly at Lucian.
"You understood that holding your position could cost you your life. Yet you chose to endure that suffering rather than allow your comrade's opportunity to be lost. Your sacrifice turned a desperate battle into victory."
The Supreme Commander turned toward the ceremonial officer.
"Such actions represent the highest traditions of military service. Courage is not simply the willingness to confront an enemy. It is the willingness to sacrifice oneself so that another soldier may succeed."
The officer opened the ceremonial case.
Voss lifted a silver-and-gold decoration suspended beneath a dark blue ribbon.
"For your extraordinary courage, selfless sacrifice, and distinguished service during the battle for Kharos Vale, I hereby award you the Medal of Distinguished Service."
He carefully fastened the decoration to Lucian's uniform.
"Humanity honors your sacrifice, Soldier Bloodthrone."
Lucian raised his hand in salute.
"Thank you, Supreme Commander."
Voss returned the gesture.
"Well done, soldier."
Lucian turned toward the assembled audience.
Applause rose across the memorial grounds.
David stood alongside the other members of Gamma Squad, clapping as Lucian made his way back toward them.
When Lucian reached his seat, Castiel looked at him.
For a moment, neither spoke.
Then Castiel leaned closer.
"I wouldn't have survived that fight without you."
Lucian glanced toward him.
"You would've done the same for me."
Castiel nodded slowly.
"Yeah. I would have."
Lucian gave him a small smile.
"Then I guess we're even."
Castiel shook his head.
"Not even close."
David watched the exchange.
He hadn't witnessed their battle against the Level Thirty Fallen soldier. While he had been fighting elsewhere, his friends had faced their own desperate struggle to survive.
Now he understood just how close he had come to losing Lucian as well.
He placed a hand against Lucian's uninjured shoulder.
"You earned that medal."
Lucian looked toward him.
"Thanks, David."
As the applause gradually faded, Supreme Commander Voss returned to the podium.
"June Kade."
June rose carefully from his seat.
The injury across his upper back and shoulder still troubled him, but he straightened his uniform and approached the platform without assistance.
He stopped before Supreme Commander Voss and saluted.
"June Kade," Voss began, "your actions during the Kharos Vale campaign demonstrated courage beyond the demands of ordinary military duty."
The Supreme Commander turned slightly toward the assembled soldiers.
"During an engagement with hostile forces, one of your fellow cadets was struck down and left exposed to an approaching enemy."
June's expression grew serious.
"With the enemy closing in and little time to react, you made a decision that placed your own life in immediate danger."
Voss looked directly at him.
"You threw yourself into harm's way to protect your fallen comrade."
The plaza remained silent.
"You placed your own body between the enemy and a soldier who could no longer defend themselves, accepting the full danger of the attack rather than allowing your comrade to be struck."
June's jaw tightened slightly.
Voss continued.
"As a result of your actions, you sustained serious injuries to your upper back and shoulder."
He paused.
"Yet your sacrifice allowed your fellow soldier to survive."
David looked toward Mira.
She sat perfectly still, her eyes fixed on June.
Voss turned toward the ceremonial officer.
"Such courage is not measured by the strength of the enemy defeated, but by the life a soldier is willing to risk for another."
He lifted the decoration from its case.
"For your extraordinary bravery and selfless protection of a fallen comrade, I hereby award you the Medal of Battlefield Courage."
The silver shield and bronze laurel wreath gleamed as Voss fastened the medal to June's uniform.
"Humanity honors your sacrifice, Soldier Kade."
June raised his hand in salute.
"Thank you, Supreme Commander."
His voice was steady.
Voss returned the salute.
As June turned toward the assembled soldiers, applause filled the memorial grounds.
He walked back toward Gamma Squad, the Medal of Battlefield Courage resting against his chest.
His injured shoulder still ached, but he barely noticed it.
When he reached his seat, Mira was waiting for him.
She looked at the medal, then slowly raised her eyes to meet his.
"June."
He glanced toward her.
"Yeah?"
For a moment, Mira seemed to struggle with what she wanted to say.
She had always been someone who preferred actions over words. But there were things she had carried with her since Kharos Vale, things she had never properly told him.
"Thank you."
June's expression softened.
He knew exactly what she meant.
He remembered seeing her fall.
The enemy closing in.
The terrible realization that she wouldn't be able to defend herself in time.
He hadn't stopped to think about what might happen to him.
He had simply moved.
June gave her a small smile.
"I would do it a thousand times over."
Mira's eyes glistened.
She reached for his hand and squeezed it gently.
June returned the gesture.
For once, he didn't try to hide the moment behind a joke.
Beside them, Lucian looked toward the platform, allowing them their privacy.
David watched his friends with a quiet appreciation for the bond they shared.
And as Mira slowly released June's hand, the two settled into their seats together, ready to honor the next member of Gamma Squad.
Voss called the next name.
"Mira Solen."
Mira rose and approached the platform.
Her movements were precise, her expression calm.
Voss regarded her with quiet respect.
"Mira Solen. Throughout the Kharos Vale campaign, your exceptional tactical awareness and combat precision proved instrumental in the survival of your squad."
He paused.
"Your ability to recognize threats, coordinate with your fellow soldiers, and maintain control under extreme pressure allowed your unit to continue operating against overwhelming opposition."
Mira stood silently.
"You demonstrated that courage is not measured only by the force of a soldier's attacks, but also by the discipline and judgment that protect those fighting beside them."
Voss lifted a silver decoration from the case.
"For your distinguished performance, you are awarded the Medal of Military Excellence."
The medal featured a silver star enclosed within a circular laurel design.
He fastened it to her uniform.
"Humanity honors your service."
Mira saluted.
"Thank you, Supreme Commander."
The applause followed her as she returned to Gamma Squad.
June glanced at the medal on her chest.
"Looks good on you."
Mira sat beside him.
"Thank you."
June smiled faintly.
"Still think mine's shinier."
Mira glanced toward him.
"Of course you do."
For a brief moment, the familiar exchange softened the tension among them.
Then Voss spoke again.
"Castiel Nightvale."
David turned toward his friend.
Castiel's expression became serious.
He rose, straightened his uniform, and walked toward the platform.
The Supreme Commander watched him approach.
"Castiel Nightvale. Your actions on Kharos Vale were extraordinary."
Castiel stopped before him and saluted.
Voss returned the gesture.
"Throughout the campaign, you demonstrated exceptional courage and dedication to your fellow soldiers. During the final engagement, you continued fighting despite enemy resistance and personal injury."
He paused.
"For that service, you are awarded the Medal of Distinguished Service."
The officer opened a second section of the ceremonial case.
Voss selected the medal and fastened it to Castiel's uniform.
Castiel saluted again.
"Thank you, Supreme Commander."
But Voss did not dismiss him.
"Remain where you are, soldier."
Castiel lowered his hand.
David leaned forward slightly.
Voss turned toward the assembled soldiers.
"There is another reason Castiel Nightvale stands before us today."
His voice carried across the memorial grounds.
"During the final hours of the Kharos Vale campaign, humanity's forces were engaged in a desperate struggle to complete the planet's conversion."
He paused.
"One Green-tier creature remained."
David looked toward Castiel.
The Supreme Commander continued.
"While our soldiers fought to hold their positions, Castiel Nightvale advanced toward the northern ridge, where the final creature had been located."
The gathered soldiers listened in silence.
"He encountered Fallen resistance along the way. He fought through enemy positions, sustained injuries, and continued his mission despite the danger."
Voss looked directly at Castiel.
"Upon reaching the creature, he engaged it in combat and successfully eliminated it."
He allowed the words to settle.
"That final strike completed the conditions necessary for Whitefall."
A quiet murmur spread through the audience.
Voss raised his voice.
"Because of his actions, Kharos Vale underwent planetary conversion. The Celestials recognized the world as sovereign human territory, and the Fallen were ordered to withdraw."
He paused.
"The battle ended."
David remembered the white light.
The wind sweeping across the battlefield.
The Fallen soldier standing above him with a raised sword.
And the sudden transformation that had changed everything.
He stared at Castiel.
Voss continued.
"Castiel Nightvale did not merely defeat an enemy creature. His actions helped secure an entire planet for humanity and brought an end to a campaign that had claimed countless lives."
The Supreme Commander turned toward the officer carrying the decorations.
"Bring forward the Whitefall Star."
A separate ceremonial case was opened.
Inside rested a magnificent gold-and-silver medal.
At its center was a radiant white star surrounded by a ring of polished silver. Beneath it hung a ribbon of white and deep blue, representing the transformation of a hostile world into one capable of supporting human life.
The medal caught the sunlight as Voss lifted it.
"The Whitefall Star is awarded in recognition of extraordinary actions directly responsible for the successful completion of a planetary conversion."
He faced Castiel.
"Castiel Nightvale, for your decisive actions in achieving Whitefall on Kharos Vale, I hereby award you the Whitefall Star."
Voss fastened the medal beside Castiel's first decoration.
"For your courage, determination, and service to humanity, you have earned the gratitude of an entire world."
Castiel stood motionless.
For a moment, he seemed almost overwhelmed by the attention.
Then he raised his hand in a formal salute.
"Thank you, Supreme Commander."
Voss returned the salute.
"Well done, soldier."
Castiel turned toward the audience.
The applause began immediately.
Then the soldiers in the front rows rose.
More followed.
Within moments, hundreds of military personnel were standing, their applause echoing across the memorial grounds.
David rose with them.
His injured shoulder protested as he clapped, but he ignored the pain.
Castiel had done it.
He had completed Whitefall.
He had saved Kharos Vale.
And without knowing it, he had saved David's life.
David felt a surge of pride for his friend.
When Castiel returned to Gamma Squad, David leaned toward him.
"You earned that, Cass."
Castiel looked down at the Whitefall Star.
Then he turned toward David.
"Thanks, D."
David smiled faintly.
"No. Thank you."
Castiel held his gaze for a moment.
Then he sat beside him.
The applause gradually faded.
Voss returned to the podium.
"David Wyn."
The sound of his name made David's stomach tighten.
He rose slowly.
Castiel looked toward him.
"You've got this, D."
David nodded.
He stepped into the central aisle and walked toward the platform.
Each step seemed heavier than the last.
He could feel the eyes of hundreds of soldiers following him.
But he kept his gaze on the Supreme Commander.
When he reached the platform, he came to attention.
Voss studied him.
"David Wyn."
"Supreme Commander."
"Level Ten. Gamma Squad."
"Yes, sir."
Voss nodded.
"Your actions during the final battle on Kharos Vale have been reviewed by the Unified Defense Command."
David remained silent.
"During that battle, you engaged Blood Ascendant Vireth Kael'tharyn, a Level Forty-Five Fallen Lord."
A hush settled over the memorial grounds.
Voss continued.
"The difference in power between you and your opponent was extraordinary. You faced an enemy whose strength far exceeded your own, yet you continued fighting."
David's thoughts returned to the battlefield.
Vireth's crimson blade.
The overwhelming force of his attacks.
The terrible pain when Sanguine Thorn pierced his shoulder.
He remembered falling.
Remembered the blood soaking the stone beneath him.
Voss's voice brought him back.
"Your willingness to confront such an enemy despite overwhelming odds demonstrated exceptional bravery and devotion to your fellow soldiers."
David lowered his eyes slightly.
"Your actions helped resist the enemy's final assault and contributed to the survival of those who remained on the battlefield."
The Supreme Commander turned toward the ceremonial case.
"For extraordinary courage in the face of overwhelming danger, I hereby award you the Medal of Valor."
He lifted a gold decoration suspended beneath a crimson-and-white ribbon.
At its center was a raised sword surrounded by a radiant star.
Voss stepped forward and carefully fastened the medal to David's uniform, avoiding his injured shoulder.
"Humanity thanks you for your courage, David Wyn."
David looked down at the medal.
Its polished surface reflected the morning sunlight.
He should have felt proud.
He knew that.
He had survived an impossible battle.
He had fought an enemy far stronger than himself.
But all he could think about was Nyra.
The way she had fallen.
The way he had held her.
The way her voice had faded.
David slowly raised his hand in salute.
"Thank you, Supreme Commander."
His voice was quiet.
Voss studied him for a moment.
Then he returned the salute.
David turned toward the audience.
Applause filled the plaza.
He could see Lucian standing.
Mira beside him.
June clapping with his uninjured arm.
And Castiel watching him with a solemn expression.
David walked back toward them.
When he sat down, he looked at the medal on his chest.
It felt impossibly heavy.
Castiel leaned toward him.
"Congratulations, D."
David nodded faintly.
"Thanks."
But he couldn't bring himself to smile.
The ceremony continued.
And David knew there was still one name left to be called.
Supreme Commander Voss returned to the center of the platform.
The officer carrying the ceremonial decorations stepped forward once more.
This time, the case he held was larger.
Three medals rested inside.
The Supreme Commander looked toward the flag-draped coffin.
His expression became solemn.
"Today, we have recognized five soldiers whose actions helped secure Kharos Vale for humanity."
He paused.
"But there is one final member of Gamma Squad whose service must be honored."
David's breathing slowed.
Voss turned toward Nyra's portrait.
"Soldier Nyra Valecrest."
The memorial grounds fell completely silent.
David stared at the coffin.
The Supreme Commander continued.
"Nyra Valecrest served humanity with courage, discipline, and unwavering devotion to those fighting beside her."
His voice carried clearly through the plaza.
"Throughout the Kharos Vale campaign, she demonstrated exceptional skill and determination. When faced with danger, she did not retreat from her responsibilities."
He paused.
"And during the final battle, when a Level Forty-Five Fallen Lord threatened her comrades, Nyra Valecrest stood against him."
David's hands began to tremble.
Voss continued.
"She fought knowing the enemy's strength exceeded her own. She continued protecting those beside her even as the battle became increasingly desperate."
The Supreme Commander lowered his gaze.
"Nyra Valecrest gave her life in the defense of humanity."
For several seconds, nobody moved.
Then Voss looked toward the ceremonial officer.
"Bring forward her decorations."
The officer approached with the case.
Voss turned toward the assembled audience.
"Nyra Valecrest is hereby awarded three posthumous military decorations in recognition of her courage, service, and sacrifice."
He lifted the first medal.
A polished platinum decoration surrounded by a silver laurel wreath, with a blue gemstone set at its center.
"The Guardian of Humanity Medal."
Voss held it where the assembled soldiers could see.
"This decoration recognizes exceptional service in the defense of humanity and contributions to the liberation of a world."
He looked toward Nyra's coffin.
"Nyra Valecrest helped protect the soldiers who fought to achieve Whitefall on Kharos Vale. Her courage throughout that campaign reflects the highest ideals of military service."
He carefully returned the medal to its case.
Then he lifted the second.
A silver cross bearing two crossed swords, suspended beneath a blue-and-white ribbon.
"The Cross of Unyielding Courage."
Voss's expression hardened with solemn respect.
"This medal recognizes extraordinary bravery against overwhelming enemy forces."
He paused.
"Nyra Valecrest faced an enemy whose power exceeded her own by an almost unimaginable margin. She knew the danger, yet she continued fighting to protect her comrades."
David closed his eyes briefly.
He remembered Nyra standing before Vireth.
The blue light of her Wind Crest Swords.
The determination in her expression.
And the moment everything changed.
When he opened his eyes again, tears blurred the platform.
Voss lowered the second medal.
Then he reached for the third.
The final decoration was gold.
A radiant star rested at its center, surrounded by a crimson border and suspended beneath a dark ribbon edged in silver.
"The Star of Ultimate Sacrifice."
The Supreme Commander held the medal carefully.
"This is among the highest honors humanity can bestow upon a fallen soldier."
He paused.
"It recognizes those who give their lives protecting others, knowing that their sacrifice may be the final act of their service."
Voss turned toward Nyra's coffin.
"Nyra Valecrest did not hesitate when those she loved and those she served were threatened."
His voice softened.
"She gave everything she had."
David lowered his head.
A tear slipped from his cheek and fell against his uniform.
Voss continued.
"Her courage deserves more than our gratitude. It deserves remembrance."
He returned the final medal to its case.
Then he straightened.
"Captain Callum Valecrest."
A man rose from the section reserved for the families of the fallen.
He wore the formal uniform of the Unified Defense Command, its decorations polished and arranged with military precision.
Dark hair touched with gray framed a face marked by years of service.
But it was the grief in his eyes that David noticed.
Voss continued.
"Captain Valecrest, would you please come forward to accept these honors on behalf of your daughter, Soldier Nyra Valecrest?"
Callum Valecrest stepped into the central aisle.
His posture remained straight, and his movements were controlled, but each step toward the platform seemed to require an effort greater than the last.
David watched him approach.
This was the man Nyra had spoken about so often.
Her father.
The man who had raised her.
The man she had wanted David to meet.
Captain Valecrest reached the platform and stopped before the flag-draped coffin.
For several seconds, he stood motionless.
Then he raised his hand in a formal salute.
Supreme Commander Voss returned the gesture.
When Callum lowered his hand, Voss stepped forward with the ceremonial case.
"Captain Valecrest, your daughter served humanity with extraordinary courage. These three decorations recognize her service, her bravery against overwhelming opposition, and the ultimate sacrifice she made protecting her comrades."
Callum accepted the case with both hands.
His fingers tightened around its polished edges.
For a moment, he looked down at the medals without speaking.
Then he raised his eyes toward the Supreme Commander.
"Thank you, sir."
His voice remained steady, although the emotion beneath it was unmistakable.
Voss inclined his head.
"Your daughter brought great honor to her family, Captain."
Callum looked toward Nyra's coffin.
"She was my greatest honor, sir."
The words were quiet.
But David heard them.
And something inside his chest seemed to break all over again.
Supreme Commander Voss allowed the silence to remain for several moments.
Then he turned toward the assembled soldiers.
"Nyra Valecrest's service will not be remembered through medals alone."
His voice grew stronger.
"By order of the Unified Defense Command, a permanent memorial will be commissioned in her honor."
A quiet murmur moved through the audience.
Voss continued.
"A statue of Nyra Valecrest will be erected in the Academy garden, depicting her as she stood in battle, holding her twin Wind Crest Swords."
David looked up.
"The statue will stand as a reminder to every cadet and soldier who walks these grounds that courage is not measured solely by strength or rank."
Voss paused.
"It is measured by the willingness to stand for others when the cost may be everything."
He looked toward Nyra's father.
"A plaque beneath the statue will bear her name, her service, and the words: 'She stood when others needed her, and gave her life so others might live.'"
Callum lowered his head.
His grip tightened around the case containing his daughter's medals.
Voss turned toward the coffin one final time.
"Soldier Nyra Valecrest, humanity thanks you."
He raised his hand in a formal salute.
Across the memorial grounds, hundreds of soldiers followed.
David stood with the rest of Gamma Squad.
He raised his hand despite the pain in his shoulder.
His eyes remained fixed on Nyra's coffin.
He held the salute until the Supreme Commander lowered his hand.
Only then did the assembled soldiers return to attention.
Voss stepped away from the podium.
He approached Nyra's coffin and bowed his head one final time.
Then he turned toward the officers waiting beside the platform.
"Commander Elara Vance."
Vance stepped forward.
Her injured arm remained secured in its sling, and the bandages beneath her opposite shoulder were visible above the collar of her uniform.
She approached the podium slowly.
David watched her.
Vance had commanded Gamma Squad.
She had trained them.
She had watched them grow from inexperienced cadets into soldiers capable of surviving a brutal campaign.
And she had known Nyra.
Not merely as a name on a casualty report.
But as one of her own.
Vance reached the podium.
For several moments, she looked toward the flag-draped coffin.
Then she turned toward the assembled soldiers.
Her expression remained composed, but her eyes shone with grief.
"Before I speak about Soldier Nyra Valecrest," she began, "I want everyone here to understand something."
She paused.
"Nyra was more than the way she died."
David slowly raised his head.
Vance looked toward Gamma Squad.
"And if we are going to remember her properly, then we must remember the life she lived."
Commander Elara Vance stood before the assembled soldiers, her uninjured hand resting against the edge of the podium.
The morning sunlight illuminated the memorial grounds, catching the silver trim of her formal uniform and the decorations arranged across her chest. Her other arm remained secured in a sling, while thick bandages covered her opposite shoulder beneath the fabric.
She had refused to allow her injuries to keep her from attending.
For several moments, she looked toward Nyra's coffin.
The three medals awarded to the fallen soldier had already been presented to Captain Callum Valecrest, who had returned to his seat with the ceremonial case resting carefully upon his lap.
Vance waited until the memorial grounds were completely silent.
Then she began.
"Supreme Commander Voss has spoken of Nyra Valecrest's courage on Kharos Vale. He has told you of her service, her bravery, and the sacrifice she made in the final battle."
Her voice was steady, although there was a quiet heaviness beneath it.
"I would like to tell you about the young woman I knew."
David raised his head.
Vance looked toward the assembled cadets.
"When Nyra first entered this Academy, she was one of more than a thousand young people beginning their military training. Like every cadet who walks through our gates, she had strengths to develop, weaknesses to overcome, and a great deal to learn."
A faint smile touched her face.
"She was disciplined. Determined. And considerably more stubborn than she appeared."
A few quiet smiles appeared among the instructors.
"She had a habit of staying behind after training sessions to practice techniques she believed she hadn't mastered. More than once, I found her alone in the training hall long after the other cadets had returned to their dormitories."
Vance paused.
"When I asked why she was still there, she would tell me she needed a little more practice."
She looked toward Nyra's portrait.
"It didn't seem to matter how well she had performed that day. Nyra always believed she could do better."
David remembered watching her train.
The way she moved with her twin Wind Crest Swords.
The precision of her footwork.
The determination in her eyes whenever she attempted a technique that had defeated her the day before.
Vance continued.
"But what impressed me most about Nyra was not her skill with a weapon."
She turned toward the assembled soldiers.
"It was the way she treated the people around her."
Her expression softened.
"She was patient with cadets who struggled. She encouraged those who doubted themselves. And when someone was having a difficult day, she often noticed before anyone else."
Mira lowered her eyes.
Vance glanced toward Gamma Squad.
"She understood something that takes many soldiers years to learn. Strength means very little if it is used only for yourself."
A breeze moved across the platform, stirring the flowers arranged around the coffin.
"During training, Nyra demonstrated an unusual ability to remain calm when others became overwhelmed. She listened. She observed. And when she spoke, she usually had something worth hearing."
June looked down at his medal.
He remembered the countless times Nyra had told him to stop making jokes during serious moments.
And the times she had laughed at them anyway.
Vance continued.
"She was also fiercely loyal."
Her gaze settled briefly on the five surviving members of Gamma Squad.
"Once Nyra considered someone her friend, she did not abandon them. She stood beside them when they succeeded, and she remained beside them when they failed."
David swallowed.
He remembered the way she had looked at him after difficult training sessions.
The quiet encouragement.
The confidence she had shown in him when he wasn't certain he deserved it.
Vance rested her hand against the podium.
"When Gamma Squad was deployed to Kharos Vale, I knew they would face dangers far beyond anything they had experienced within this Academy."
Her expression grew serious.
"I also knew they would be tested in ways no training exercise could fully prepare them for."
She paused.
"Over the months that followed, I watched six young cadets become soldiers."
David glanced toward his friends.
Lucian sat with his back straight, the Medal of Distinguished Service resting against his chest.
June's Medal of Battlefield Courage caught the sunlight whenever he moved.
Mira sat beside him, her Medal of Military Excellence fastened neatly to her uniform.
Castiel wore both the Medal of Distinguished Service and the Whitefall Star.
And David could feel the weight of his own Medal of Valor against his chest.
Six cadets.
Five survivors.
Vance continued.
"They learned to trust one another under fire. They learned that courage does not mean the absence of fear, and that surviving a battle often depends upon the person standing beside you."
Her eyes moved toward Nyra's coffin.
"And Nyra Valecrest became one of the people they could depend upon."
The commander took a slow breath.
"During the final battle, I witnessed her stand against an enemy whose power exceeded anything she had been trained to face."
David's fingers tightened against his knees.
Vance's voice remained controlled.
"She understood the danger. She knew what could happen. But when her comrades were threatened, she refused to abandon them."
The commander paused.
"I wish I could stand before you today and tell you that courage always leads to victory. That the brave always survive, and that every sacrifice is rewarded with the chance to return home."
Her gaze lowered.
"But those of us who have served long enough know that war does not make such promises."
The memorial grounds remained silent.
Vance looked toward Nyra's portrait.
"Sometimes the people who deserve a future more than anyone are the ones who never get to see it."
David closed his eyes.
He remembered Nyra speaking about the lake house.
About summer.
About the things they would do when they returned from Kharos Vale.
He had imagined those days so clearly.
Now they existed only as memories of conversations that would never become reality.
Vance continued.
"Nyra Valecrest had dreams beyond the battlefield. She had people she loved, places she wanted to visit, and a life she intended to live."
Her voice trembled slightly.
"She deserved the opportunity to experience all of it."
For the first time, Vance looked as though she might struggle to continue.
She paused, lowering her eyes toward the podium.
When she raised them again, her expression was composed.
"But today, I do not want us to remember Nyra only for the future she lost."
She looked toward Gamma Squad.
"I want us to remember the life she shared with us."
A quiet breeze passed through the plaza.
"Remember her determination when training became difficult. Remember her kindness when someone needed encouragement. Remember the way she laughed with her friends, and the confidence she brought to those who fought beside her."
Vance's gaze returned to the coffin.
"And remember that when the moment came to choose between her own safety and the lives of others, Nyra Valecrest chose to protect the people she loved."
She straightened.
"Supreme Commander Voss has honored her as a soldier."
Her voice grew stronger.
"And I stand before you today as her commander, proud to say that she earned every honor she has received."
Vance paused.
"But I am also standing here as someone who knew her."
The words came more quietly.
"And I will miss her."
David lowered his head.
Vance turned toward Nyra's portrait one final time.
"Nyra, when you first arrived at this Academy, I promised to help prepare you for the world beyond these walls."
Her eyes glistened.
"I never imagined I would be standing here to say goodbye."
She took a careful breath.
"You made us proud. Not because of the medals you earned, or the enemies you faced, but because of the person you chose to become."
For several seconds, she looked at the smiling photograph.
Then she raised her uninjured hand in salute.
"Rest well, Soldier Valecrest."
Her voice softened.
"Your duty is complete."
The entire memorial grounds rose.
Hundreds of soldiers raised their hands in salute.
David stood beside his friends.
His injured shoulder burned as he lifted his arm, but he held the salute.
His eyes never left Nyra's portrait.
He remembered her smile.
Her voice.
And the last time she had looked into his eyes.
For a moment, he could almost imagine her standing on the platform, embarrassed by the attention and quietly asking everyone to stop making such a fuss.
A tear slipped down his cheek.
Vance lowered her hand.
The assembled soldiers followed.
Then applause rose through the memorial grounds.
It was not the thunderous celebration that had greeted Castiel's Whitefall Star.
It was quieter.
Measured.
An expression of gratitude and respect for a young woman whose life had ended far too soon.
Vance stepped away from the podium.
As she passed Nyra's coffin, she stopped and bowed her head.
Then she returned to her place among the officers.
***
The applause faded.
A ceremonial officer stepped forward and announced the final honors.
The six members of the honor guard moved into formation around Nyra's coffin.
Their polished boots struck the stone in perfect unison.
A military band began playing a slow, solemn melody.
David remained standing with Gamma Squad.
He watched the honor guard approach the coffin, their movements careful and deliberate.
The sound of the music drifted across the plaza.
It reminded him of the final evening before their deployment.
Nyra had stood beside him beneath the Academy lights, talking about how strange it felt to be leaving everything familiar behind.
He remembered telling her they would come back.
That they would finish the mission and return together.
David stared at the flag covering her coffin.
He had kept only half of that promise.
A senior officer stepped toward the platform.
"At this time, those wishing to pay their final respects may approach."
The officers nearest the platform moved first.
Supreme Commander Voss stepped forward, bowed his head before the coffin, and placed a small white flower beside Nyra's portrait.
Commander Vance followed.
She stood silently for several moments, then carefully placed a flower beside the first.
Other officers approached in turn.
When they had finished, the ceremonial officer looked toward Gamma Squad.
"Gamma Squad."
Lucian turned toward the others.
For a moment, nobody moved.
Then he nodded.
"Come on."
The five surviving members stepped into the aisle.
David walked between Castiel and Lucian, with Mira and June following close behind.
They approached the platform together.
The honor guard remained at attention.
Lucian reached the coffin first.
He stopped before it, his gaze settling on the flag.
For several seconds, he stood motionless.
Then he raised his hand in salute.
"Thank you for everything, Nyra," he whispered.
He lowered his hand and stepped aside.
Mira approached next.
She looked toward Nyra's portrait.
A small, sad smile touched her face.
"You always knew when something was wrong," she whispered. "Even when I didn't want to talk about it."
Her eyes filled.
"I wish you were here."
Mira raised her hand in salute.
Then she stepped back.
June approached the coffin.
For once, he seemed completely uncertain of what to say.
He looked at Nyra's photograph.
"You know, I always thought you'd be the one giving me a hard time when we got back."
His voice was quiet.
"You were supposed to tell me my jokes were terrible. Then laugh at them anyway."
He swallowed.
"I don't know who's going to keep me in line now."
A faint, painful smile crossed his face.
"Probably Mira."
He glanced toward the others before looking back at Nyra.
"I'll miss you."
June raised his hand in salute.
He held it for several seconds before stepping aside.
Castiel approached next.
He stood before the coffin, the Whitefall Star gleaming against his uniform.
For a long moment, he looked at Nyra's portrait.
He remembered the conversations they had shared.
The way she had gradually become one of the few people who could challenge his quiet sarcasm without hesitation.
And the way she had looked at David.
Castiel lowered his gaze.
"You would've loved seeing Kharos Vale after Whitefall," he said softly.
He paused.
"The forests. The sky. Everything."
His expression tightened.
"I wish you could've been there."
Castiel raised his hand in salute.
Then he stepped back.
David was the last to approach.
He moved slowly.
Each step brought him closer to the coffin, and with every step, the pressure in his chest grew heavier.
When he reached the ceremonial stand, he stopped.
Nyra's portrait stood beside him.
He looked at it.
Her silver-white hair.
The pink highlights.
The familiar scar on her cheek.
The smile he had fallen in love with.
For a moment, the sounds of the ceremony seemed to fade.
David remembered her lying in his arms.
He remembered the way she had looked up at him.
And the words they had exchanged before she closed her eyes.
His hand rose slowly toward the photograph.
He stopped before touching it.
"Hey, Nyra."
His voice was barely audible.
He swallowed.
"I don't really know what I'm supposed to say."
The wind moved gently across the flag.
David looked down.
"I keep thinking you're going to walk into the room and tell me I'm worrying too much."
A tear slipped down his cheek.
"Or that June's being an idiot again."
Behind him, June lowered his eyes.
David managed a faint, broken smile.
"You always knew how to make things feel better."
He paused.
"I wish I could hear your voice again."
For several seconds, he said nothing.
Then his gaze lowered toward the Medal of Valor fastened to his chest.
The gold decoration gleamed beneath the sunlight.
David stared at it.
He remembered Supreme Commander Voss fastening it to his uniform.
The applause.
The words praising his courage.
But he couldn't stop thinking about Nyra.
She had stood against Vireth.
She had fought even when the difference in strength was overwhelming.
And she had given her life.
David slowly raised his uninjured hand.
His fingers closed around the Medal of Valor.
Castiel noticed the movement.
"D..." he whispered.
David carefully unfastened the decoration from his uniform.
The crimson-and-white ribbon slipped free.
For a moment, he held the medal in his palm.
Then he stepped closer to the coffin.
He placed the Medal of Valor gently upon the flag covering it, near the center of the ceremonial stand.
His hand remained there for a moment.
Tears filled his eyes.
"I'm not worthy of this. This belongs to you."
The words were quiet.
But in the stillness surrounding the platform, those closest to him heard them.
Lucian lowered his head.
Mira covered her mouth.
June stared at the medal resting on the flag.
Castiel watched David with an expression of deep sadness.
David stood before the coffin, his hand resting beside the decoration.
"I would've given anything to bring you home."
His voice broke.
"Anything."
He closed his eyes.
"I'm sorry."
For several moments, he remained there.
Then Castiel stepped forward.
He didn't say anything.
He simply placed a hand against David's uninjured shoulder.
David opened his eyes.
Castiel looked at him.
"Come on, D."
David glanced toward Nyra's portrait one final time.
Then he nodded.
Together, they stepped away from the coffin.
The five members of Gamma Squad returned to their places.
David's Medal of Valor remained resting upon Nyra's flag.
***
The ceremonial officer waited until Gamma Squad had returned to the front row.
Then he raised his hand.
The military band fell silent.
A sharp command rang across the memorial grounds.
"Honor guard! Prepare for final honors!"
The six soldiers surrounding Nyra's coffin straightened, their polished boots striking the stone in perfect unison.
Beyond the memorial platform, three ceremonial plasma cannons stood upon elevated military platforms. Their long, silver barrels pointed toward the open sky, each bearing the insignia of the Unified Defense Command.
The weapons had been designed specifically for military ceremonies. Their energy charges produced brilliant displays of light and sound without the destructive force of battlefield artillery.
David watched as the cannon crews moved into position.
The commanding officer raised his hand.
"Honor Battery! Ready!"
Blue-white energy began gathering within the cannons' barrels, illuminating the surrounding stone.
"Aim!"
The barrels tilted higher.
"Fire!"
Three brilliant columns of light erupted into the sky.
A tremendous boom rolled across the memorial grounds, echoing against the Academy buildings.
High above, the energy charges burst into expanding rings of white light before dissolving into the atmosphere.
David felt the vibration pass through the stone beneath his boots.
The commanding officer raised his hand again.
"Second volley! Fire!"
Another thunderous salute shook the air.
Three more columns of light climbed toward the clouds, their brilliance briefly illuminating the flags surrounding the memorial grounds.
David stood motionless.
Beside him, Castiel lowered his head.
Lucian stared toward the platform, his expression solemn.
Mira wiped a tear from her cheek.
June stood with his hands clasped in front of him, his usual humor nowhere to be found.
The commanding officer gave the final order.
"Third volley! Fire!"
The cannons discharged together.
Their thunder echoed across the Academy grounds as three brilliant streaks of light rose into the morning sky.
For several seconds, the glowing trails remained visible.
Then they faded.
The cannon crews returned to attention.
Silence settled over the memorial grounds.
A lone military musician stepped forward.
The opening notes of humanity's traditional military farewell drifted through the air, slow and mournful.
David looked toward Nyra's coffin.
A final military salute to a young woman who had entered the Academy as a cadet, fought on Kharos Vale as a soldier, and given her life protecting those she loved.
When the final note faded, the honor guard moved toward the coffin to begin the folding of the military flag.
Two soldiers took their positions at the head, two at the foot, and the remaining two stood along the sides.
With careful, synchronized movements, they lifted the flag from the coffin.
David watched in silence.
His Medal of Valor still rested upon the fabric, exactly where he had placed it during his farewell.
Before beginning the folding ceremony, one of the honor guards carefully lifted the medal from the flag and held it respectfully in his gloved hand.
The remaining soldiers began folding the fabric.
Each movement was slow and precise.
The flag was drawn taut, folded lengthwise, and then carefully shaped into a triangle. With each movement, more of the fabric disappeared beneath the folds until only the military insignia remained visible.
When the final fold was completed, the senior honor guard accepted the triangular flag.
Then he turned toward the soldier holding David's medal.
For a moment, the two exchanged a quiet glance.
The senior soldier looked toward David.
David stood motionless beside Castiel, his eyes fixed upon the flag.
The honor guard lowered his gaze toward the Medal of Valor.
Then, with deliberate care, he fastened the decoration to the front of the folded flag, securing the crimson-and-white ribbon beneath the military insignia.
The gold medal rested against the dark fabric.
A decoration awarded to David Wyn for extraordinary courage.
A decoration David believed belonged to Nyra.
The senior honor guard adjusted the medal one final time, ensuring it was securely attached.
Then he turned toward the family seating.
"Captain Callum Valecrest."
Nyra's father rose.
He approached the honor guard, his posture straight despite the grief visible in his face.
The senior soldier stood before him, holding the folded flag in both hands.
David's Medal of Valor gleamed against its surface.
"Captain Valecrest," the soldier began, "on behalf of a grateful humanity and the Unified Defense Command, please accept this flag in recognition of your daughter's honorable and faithful service."
He paused briefly.
"And the Medal of Valor placed upon it by David Wyn, in honor of your daughter's courage and sacrifice."
Callum looked down.
His eyes settled on the gold decoration.
For a moment, he seemed confused.
Then he turned his head slightly toward Gamma Squad.
His gaze found David.
David stood with tears running down his face.
He didn't look away.
Callum looked back toward the flag.
Slowly, he extended his hands.
The honor guard placed the folded fabric into them.
Callum accepted it carefully, holding it against his chest.
His fingers moved toward the Medal of Valor.
He touched its edge with his thumb.
For several seconds, he stared at it.
Then his shoulders began to tremble.
He lowered his head, holding the flag and medal close.
"Thank you," he whispered.
The senior honor guard raised his hand in salute.
Callum returned the gesture.
When the soldier stepped away, Callum remained standing before his daughter's coffin.
He looked down at the folded flag.
Three posthumous military decorations had been awarded to Nyra that morning.
The Guardian of Humanity Medal.
The Cross of Unyielding Courage.
The Star of Ultimate Sacrifice.
And now, resting against the flag in his hands, was a fourth decoration.
One that had not been awarded to her by the military.
One that had been given by the young man his daughter loved.
Captain Callum Valecrest closed his eyes.
For the first time that morning, he allowed himself to weep.
David watched from the front row, unable to hold back his own tears.
He had given Nyra the only honor he possessed.
And now her father would carry it home with her flag.
The final notes of the military farewell had long since faded into the morning air.
For several moments, nobody moved.
The three ceremonial plasma cannons stood silent beyond the memorial grounds, their silver barrels still pointed toward the sky. The faint traces of energy left by the final salute had disappeared, leaving nothing but the soft movement of the flags above the Academy.
At the center of the platform, Nyra's coffin rested beneath the morning sunlight.
The military flag that had covered it was now folded and resting in Captain Callum Valecrest's hands.
Pinned carefully to the front was David's Medal of Valor.
Callum stood with his head lowered, his thumb resting against the edge of the gold decoration. The ceremonial case containing his daughter's three posthumous medals had been entrusted to an accompanying officer, who waited respectfully several steps behind him.
The honor guard remained at attention.
Then the senior ceremonial officer stepped forward.
"Soldiers of the Unified Defense Command. Cadets and officers of the Academy. The military honors for Soldier Nyra Valecrest are now concluded."
He paused.
"May her courage be remembered, and may her sacrifice never be forgotten."
The assembled soldiers raised their hands in one final salute.
David stood beside the surviving members of Gamma Squad.
His uniform felt strangely incomplete without the Medal of Valor, but he did not regret leaving it with Nyra.
He watched Captain Valecrest holding the folded flag and thought of the way Nyra had spoken about her father.
She had always smiled when she mentioned him.
Sometimes she would complain that he worried too much, especially when she told him about dangerous training exercises. Other times she spoke of how he had raised her alone, doing his best to balance the responsibilities of military service with being a father.
She had never doubted how much he loved her.
And now he stood before her coffin, holding the last honors humanity could give her.
The soldiers gradually lowered their hands.
The ceremony was over.
Yet David found himself wishing it would continue.
As long as the officers remained in formation and the military band stood beside the platform, there was still something left to do. Another command to follow. Another moment before everyone would begin walking away.
But the honor guard was already preparing to escort the coffin from the memorial grounds.
David watched as the soldiers took their positions.
Their movements were measured and respectful. No one hurried. No one spoke unnecessarily.
When the coffin was lifted, the assembled soldiers stood at attention once more.
The honor guard carried Nyra along the ceremonial pathway, passing between two rows of military personnel who raised their hands in salute.
David's eyes followed her until the procession disappeared beyond the memorial archway.
Only then did he lower his gaze.
A gentle hand rested against his shoulder.
Castiel stood beside him.
"You doing okay, D?"
David looked toward the empty platform.
"I don't know."
Castiel nodded.
He didn't try to offer an answer.
For a while, they remained standing together.
Around them, the assembled soldiers began dispersing. Officers exchanged quiet words, families gathered their belongings, and cadets moved toward the pathways leading back into the Academy.
The large crowd slowly became smaller.
Lucian approached David.
"Vance said we don't have any further duties today."
David nodded.
"Okay."
"She also said our departure arrangements for tomorrow morning are already confirmed."
June looked toward the memorial archway.
"Hard to believe we're actually going home."
Mira adjusted the sleeve of her formal uniform.
"After everything that happened, I think we all need some time away."
"Yeah," June replied. "I just thought I'd be happier about it."
Nobody disagreed.
David looked toward the garden beyond the memorial grounds.
He remembered Supreme Commander Voss announcing that a statue would be built there in Nyra's honor.
He imagined her standing among the trees, holding her twin Wind Crest Swords.
He wondered what she would have thought about having a statue of herself.
Probably that everyone was making too much of a fuss.
The thought almost made him smile.
"David."
He turned.
Commander Vance was approaching them.
Her injured arm remained secured in its sling, and she moved carefully, avoiding sudden movements that might aggravate the bandages beneath her uniform.
Gamma Squad straightened.
"Commander."
Vance looked over the five of them.
"You conducted yourselves well today."
Lucian nodded.
"Thank you, Commander."
Her gaze settled on David.
"I saw what you did with your medal."
David looked down at the empty place on his uniform.
"I hope I didn't disrespect the award."
Vance shook her head.
"No, David."
She glanced toward the memorial platform.
"That medal was yours to receive. What you chose to do with it was your decision."
David remained silent.
Vance studied him for a moment.
"I think Nyra would have understood."
His throat tightened.
"Thank you, Commander."
She gave him a small nod.
"Get some rest today. All of you. You've earned it."
Her gaze moved across the squad.
"And remember that although your summer leave begins tomorrow, the Academy will still be here when you return."
June managed a faint smile.
"Does that mean we can expect another round of Vance's special training exercises?"
Vance raised an eyebrow.
"Only if you're volunteering, Kade."
June's smile vanished.
"I withdraw the question, Commander."
A quiet laugh escaped Lucian.
Even Mira's expression softened.
Vance shook her head, though the corners of her mouth lifted slightly.
"Some things never change."
She looked toward the empty memorial platform one last time.
"Take care of each other."
Then she turned and walked toward the officers waiting near the Academy entrance.
Gamma Squad watched her leave.
For a while, none of them spoke.
Then Lucian glanced toward the others.
"We should head back."
David nodded.
"Yeah."
They began walking.
But before they reached the pathway leading away from the memorial grounds, a voice called from behind them.
"David Wyn?"
David stopped.
He turned toward the sound.
Captain Callum Valecrest stood several steps away.
The folded military flag rested securely in his arms, David's Medal of Valor still pinned to its front. An accompanying officer carrying the case of Nyra's three decorations waited farther back, giving the captain space.
For a moment, David couldn't move.
He recognized the man immediately.
Nyra's father.
Callum approached slowly.
"You're David?"
David straightened.
"Yes, sir."
Captain Valecrest studied him.
Up close, David could see the exhaustion in his face. His eyes were reddened, and the lines around them seemed deeper than they had from the front row.
Yet there was something familiar about his expression.
Something David recognized from Nyra.
Perhaps it was the shape of his eyes.
Or the quiet steadiness with which he carried himself.
Callum looked toward the other members of Gamma Squad.
"Would you mind if I spoke with David for a moment?"
Lucian nodded.
"Of course, Captain."
He glanced toward David.
"We'll wait near the entrance."
David gave him a small nod.
Castiel lingered for a moment.
"You okay, D?"
David looked toward Captain Valecrest.
"I'll be fine, Cass."
Castiel studied him, then nodded.
"Take your time."
The others walked toward the pathway, leaving David alone with Nyra's father.
For several seconds, neither man spoke.
Callum looked down at the folded flag.
His fingers brushed against the Medal of Valor.
"I wanted to thank you for this."
David lowered his gaze.
"You don't have to thank me, sir."
"I think I do."
Callum looked at him.
"I heard what you said when you placed it on her coffin."
David swallowed.
"I meant it."
"I know."
The captain's voice was quiet.
He studied the medal for a moment longer.
"Nyra used to tell me about the people she served with. She wrote whenever she had the chance, although sometimes weeks would pass before I received anything."
David listened.
"She talked about her training, the missions, and the friends she'd made."
Callum paused.
"And she talked about you."
David raised his eyes.
"She did?"
A faint smile appeared on the captain's face.
"Quite a bit, actually."
David felt something tighten in his chest.
Callum continued.
"At first, it was mostly little things. Something you said during training. A decision you made during a mission. How you were always trying to figure things out before everyone else."
He glanced toward David.
"She seemed to find that amusing."
David gave a small, sad smile.
"She used to tell me I thought too much."
Callum nodded.
"That sounds like my daughter."
For a moment, they shared a quiet understanding.
Then Callum's expression softened.
"Later, her letters changed."
David remained still.
"She still wrote about the missions and her friends, but whenever she mentioned you, there was something different in the way she described things."
He paused.
"I could tell you had become important to her."
David looked toward the memorial garden.
"She was important to me, too."
Callum nodded.
"I know that now."
A breeze moved through the trees beside them.
The captain adjusted the folded flag in his arms.
"Nyra told me she wanted you to come to our summer lake house."
David closed his eyes briefly.
"Yeah."
"She was looking forward to it."
"So was I."
His voice trembled.
"We talked about it a lot."
Callum watched him quietly.
David swallowed.
"She wanted to show me the lake. Said there was a place where you could sit on the dock and watch the sun come up."
The captain smiled faintly.
"That's her favorite place."
David looked at him.
"She said it was peaceful."
"It is."
Callum's gaze drifted toward the trees.
"She used to sit there when she was little. Sometimes she'd take a blanket outside before sunrise and wait for the light to come over the water."
His smile faded.
"I'd usually find her there when I woke up."
David imagined a younger Nyra sitting at the edge of a wooden dock, her feet dangling above the water as the morning sunlight spread across the lake.
It was a memory he would never get to share with her.
Callum looked back toward him.
"David, I want you to know that the invitation still stands."
David stared at him.
"Sir?"
"The lake house."
The captain paused.
"You're welcome there. This summer, or whenever you're ready."
David lowered his eyes.
"I don't know if I could."
"You don't have to decide now."
Callum's voice remained gentle.
"But Nyra wanted you to see that place. And if you ever decide to come, I'd be glad to show it to you."
David looked toward the folded flag.
"Thank you, Captain."
"Callum is fine when we're not on duty."
David hesitated.
"Thank you, sir."
The captain gave a faint smile.
"I suppose that's close enough for today."
They stood together in silence.
Then Callum shifted the flag carefully into one arm and reached inside his formal jacket.
He withdrew a folded envelope.
The paper was slightly creased, its edges worn from being handled.
David noticed Nyra's handwriting immediately.
His breath caught.
Callum looked down at the envelope.
"This was one of the last letters she sent me before Kharos Vale."
David stared at it.
"Her last letter?"
Callum nodded.
"It arrived shortly before I was informed of what happened."
He ran his thumb along the edge.
"I've read it more times than I can count."
His voice grew quieter.
"She wrote about a lot of things. Her experiences, what she hoped to do when she came home, and the people who mattered to her."
Callum looked directly at David.
"She mentioned you."
David felt his throat tighten.
The captain held out the envelope.
"I'd like you to have it."
David looked from the letter to Callum.
"But it's addressed to you."
"I know."
Callum's expression softened.
"And I've already read it. I know what my daughter wanted to tell me."
He paused.
"I think there's something in there she would have wanted you to know, too."
David hesitated.
"Are you sure?"
Callum nodded.
"Yes."
Slowly, David reached forward.
He accepted the envelope with both hands.
For a moment, he simply stared at the handwriting on its front.
Captain Callum Valecrest.
Nyra had written those words.
She had held this paper.
Perhaps she had been smiling while she wrote, imagining the summer waiting for them after the campaign.
David carefully traced the edge of the envelope with his thumb.
"Thank you."
Callum nodded.
"Take your time with it."
David slipped the letter carefully into the inside pocket of his uniform.
He wasn't ready to read it.
Not here.
Not while the sound of the funeral still echoed in his thoughts.
But knowing he carried something she had written brought a strange mixture of comfort and pain.
Callum looked toward the pathway where Gamma Squad waited.
"She had good friends."
David followed his gaze.
"Yeah."
"That matters to me."
The captain adjusted the folded flag.
"Knowing she wasn't alone out there."
David looked back toward him.
"She wasn't."
His voice grew firmer.
"She was never alone."
Callum studied him.
Then he nodded.
"I'm glad."
David hesitated.
"Captain..."
"Yes?"
He struggled to find the words.
There were so many things he wanted to say.
That he was sorry.
That he should have been stronger.
That he had tried to save her.
But none of them seemed sufficient.
Finally, he lowered his head.
"I loved your daughter."
Callum remained silent.
David's voice trembled.
"I still do."
For several seconds, the captain looked at him.
Then he stepped closer.
With one arm holding the flag, he placed his free hand gently against David's shoulder.
"I know, son."
David's eyes filled.
Callum continued.
"And from the way she wrote about you, I know she loved you, too."
David lowered his head.
He couldn't stop the tears.
Callum didn't tell him to be strong.
He didn't tell him to move on.
He simply stood beside him, allowing the young soldier the time he needed.
After a while, David wiped his eyes.
"I'm sorry we had to meet like this."
Callum looked toward the memorial archway.
"So am I."
He paused.
"She had been looking forward to introducing us."
David nodded.
"Me too."
Callum gave his shoulder a gentle squeeze before lowering his hand.
"Take care of yourself, David."
"I will, sir."
"And remember what I said about the lake house."
David looked at him.
"I will."
The captain nodded.
Then he turned toward the waiting officer.
David watched as Callum walked away, carrying the folded military flag with the Medal of Valor pinned to its front.
The officer carrying Nyra's three posthumous medals fell into step beside him.
For a moment, David remained where he was.
His hand moved to the inside pocket of his uniform.
He felt the outline of the letter.
Nyra's last letter to her father.
He pressed his palm gently against it.
Then he turned toward the Academy.
David remained beside the memorial grounds for a few moments after Captain Callum Valecrest departed.
His hand moved to the inside pocket of his uniform, where Nyra's letter rested.
He could still picture her father holding the folded military flag, the Medal of Valor pinned to its front. The captain had thanked him for something David wished he had never needed to do.
He looked toward the memorial archway one final time before turning toward the Academy entrance.
The others were waiting where they had promised.
Lucian stood near the steps, speaking quietly with Mira, while June leaned against one of the stone pillars. Castiel noticed David approaching and straightened.
"Everything okay, D?" Castiel asked.
David nodded.
"Yeah. Her father's a good man."
Castiel studied him for a moment.
"I'm glad you got to talk to him."
David glanced toward the memorial grounds.
"Me too."
Lucian stepped closer.
"Ready to head back?"
David looked at his friends.
"Yeah. Let's go."
The five of them started along the pathway leading toward the dormitory buildings.
The afternoon sunlight filtered through the trees, casting shifting patterns across the stone walkway. Around them, the Academy had begun returning to its usual routines. Small groups of cadets crossed the courtyards, instructors moved between buildings, and transport vehicles passed along the distant service roads.
Yet the atmosphere remained subdued.
News of the funeral had spread throughout the Academy, and several cadets stopped to acknowledge Gamma Squad as they passed.
Some offered quiet condolences.
Others simply saluted.
Lucian returned the gestures with a respectful nod, while Mira and June remained close beside the others.
As they approached the Academy garden, David slowed.
Beyond the pathway, an open section of grass stretched between several flowering trees. It was a peaceful place, surrounded by stone benches and carefully maintained gardens.
David remembered Supreme Commander Voss's announcement.
One day, a statue of Nyra would stand there.
He imagined her holding her twin Wind Crest Swords, her expression determined as she faced an enemy far stronger than herself.
A permanent reminder of the soldier she had become.
Castiel noticed him looking.
"Thinking about the statue?"
David nodded.
"Yeah."
Lucian followed his gaze toward the garden.
"They'll probably put it somewhere everyone can see."
"They should," Mira said quietly.
June studied the empty space between the trees.
"Knowing Nyra, she'd probably be embarrassed by the whole thing."
David smiled faintly.
"She would."
June folded his arms.
"She'd tell everyone they were making too much of a fuss, then complain that the sculptor got her hair wrong."
Mira gave a small smile.
"Or that they made her swords too short."
"Exactly," June replied. "And then she'd make us stand there for an hour while she explained everything they needed to fix."
A quiet laugh escaped Lucian.
David looked toward the garden again.
For a moment, he could almost hear Nyra joining the conversation, telling June that his imagination was getting out of control.
The thought hurt.
But it also reminded him of how much happiness she had brought into their lives.
"I think she'd like it," David said.
The others looked toward him.
He kept his eyes on the garden.
"Maybe not all the attention. But knowing people would remember her."
Lucian nodded.
"They will."
David took one final look at the place where her statue would someday stand.
Then he turned toward his friends.
"Come on."
They continued walking together.
The afternoon gradually gave way to evening as Gamma Squad made their way through the Academy.
The five remaining members of Gamma Squad walked through the familiar corridors together.
For most of the journey, nobody spoke.
The funeral had ended, but the weight of it remained with them.
David could still see Nyra's father holding the folded flag, his Medal of Valor pinned to its front, and he could still hear the final words spoken in her honor.
Tomorrow morning, they would leave the Academy for summer break.
After months on Kharos Vale, followed by two weeks waiting for David to wake, they were finally going home.
It should have been something to celebrate.
Instead, the thought of separating felt strangely painful.
Lucian glanced toward the others.
"We should probably get some rest. We've all got a long day tomorrow."
Mira nodded, although she made no move to leave.
Castiel looked toward David.
David had barely spoken since the funeral. He walked with his eyes lowered, his thoughts somewhere far beyond the familiar corridors.
June watched his friends for a moment.
He didn't like the silence.
He didn't like the idea of everyone disappearing into their rooms either.
They had spent so long fighting to stay together that saying goodbye now felt harder than he had expected.
He glanced toward the stairwell at the end of the corridor.
Then he looked back at the others.
"Hey, guys."
Everyone turned toward him.
June gave them a small, tired smile.
"One last time before we all go home?"
Lucian frowned slightly.
"What are you talking about?"
June nodded toward the stairwell.
"To the roof."