The ceremony continued at length.
Names kept appearing on the crystal display, each one carrying its own story—some brief, some small, but all representing meaningful contributions to the battle.
With every new name, applause followed as the recipients stepped forward to receive their rewards and medals for their service.
Standing to the side, Mike looked at the vast number of people being honored.
"…That's a lot of people," Mike murmured under his breath.
Lily nodded beside him. "As it should be. Yesterday wasn't won by just a few."
"Besides," she added, "Lionheart City is huge. We probably only covered two or three percent of it."
Mike nodded in agreement.
The atmosphere remained solemn as everyone watched the heroes being rewarded.
Misty had gone quiet on Layala's back, her small hands gripping the cub's soft fur. Even she seemed to sense the mood, her earlier excitement replaced by quiet curiosity.
