NOVEL NEXT Chapter 208: 208. Nothing
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Enel understood his feelings at this moment, a mix of excitement and apprehension. While everyone else could return to their homes, for him, the question lingered where was his home?
"Don't worry, it's fine," Haruya reassured him with a gentle tone. "Don't forget that Skypiea is now part of the Tru Kingdom's territory. You're a citizen of this Kingdom, so it's only natural for you to come back. Besides, His Majesty is looking forward to seeing you. And if you need a place to stay, you can stay with me. I don't have any family either."
"Thank you so much, Brother Haruya!" Enel exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with gratitude. For years, he hadn't known the warmth of a family, and Haruya's words touched a deep chord within him.
"Alright, settle down," Haruya said, ruffling Enel's hair. "Let's hurry up, or we might miss our chance if the space portal closes."
"Yes, yes! Let's go!" Enel replied eagerly, quickly following the group as they made their way toward the portal.
With such a large crowd moving through the portal, it was expected to take some time, nearly half an hour for everyone to pass through.
The groups, led by their instructors, moved forward in an orderly fashion, with each team consisting of 100 people. A Marine officer, at least of major rank, led each team to maintain discipline.
As the first group passed through the portal, they emerged on the other side to find Anos and several generals waiting to greet them.
Though today's return ceremony was modest, the pride radiating from the returning warriors was unmistakable.
The palace grounds remained tranquil, a stark contrast to the preparations underway for the warriors' homecoming.
These individuals, trained rigorously over the past two years, were destined to become the guardians of the kingdom, serving as its protectors in every corner of the land.
One by one, the groups exited the portal. Each step they took into their homeland brought a sense of fulfilment.
Their transformation over the years was evident once ordinary citizens had become exceptional individuals.
Now, they stood as the pride of their families and the entire kingdom, ready to unleash their potential and uphold the honour of the Tru Kingdom.
When the final group stepped through, the warriors assembled at the foot of the mountain, where a massive square capable of holding 100,000 people had been constructed for military parades.
Silence enveloped the area, broken only by the gentle sound of the wind. Thousands of warriors stood at attention, their eyes fixed forward.
Anos ascended a podium overlooking the gathered warriors, his regal presence commanding respect. Beside him stood Fujitora and five vice generals, all in perfect formation.
This wasn't just a welcome-home ceremony it was a grand military parade, a testament to the kingdom's rising power.
"I'm glad you have all returned," Anos began, his voice carrying strength and pride. "This is an honour that belongs to you and the Tru Kingdom. The safety of our people and the kingdom's future now rests in your capable hands."
"Bigger challenges lie ahead, but your presence here today proves we are prepared to face them. After years of rigorous training, I know you've achieved remarkable growth. Enjoy your well-deserved rest this month, for in thirty days, we embark on the journey to secure the Tru Kingdom's rightful place in the world!"
The warriors stood tall, their determination evident. Over two years of training had forged them into skilled protectors, mastering techniques like the Six Powers.
Their accomplishments, born from relentless effort and discipline, shone brightly.
The welcoming ceremony concluded swiftly. Everyone understood the warriors' desire to reunite with their families and explore the transformed kingdom.
As the groups dispersed, preparations began for their next mission sending another team to Skypiea for further training.
The portal's limited capacity meant only a fraction of the army could remain on Skypiea at any given time, but the kingdom had already ensured sufficient supplies for the next phase.
The Tru Kingdom's rise was no longer a secret, even to the World Government. However, with the return of these warriors, there was little the government could do to hinder the kingdom's growing influence.
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