Retaliation of the God of War

Chapter 5: Letting the World Know Who I Am

The three days passed very quickly, in a flash of anticipation, the news of the Reclamation Ceremony quickly spread like wildfire across every part of the nations both far and wide. Every major news network broadcasted only updates and news about the event with their headlines solely about the legend’s name. The man who was about to be known by the whole world. 

People from far regions rushed to the city, just to witness the historic event in person. They came to catch a glimpse of the legendary figure who had saved their nation from the verge of destruction, the hero who had fought against all several countries during the Great War.

As the day of the ceremony finally came, the air was filled with expectation. Everyone held their breaths in anticipation,  eagerly waiting to see the legendary God of War, the savior of their nation.

The grand, circular hall, they fondly called "The Colosseum," was filled to capacity. People, media reporters, and cameras packed every seat and space. The entire hall was filled to the brim.

In a private dressing room, Damien stood ready to face the crowd, dressed in a formal blue uniform inspired by ancient Rome's royal attire, but with a modern twist. His outfit was decorated with many medals and honors, showing him to be the leader that he was.

Looking in the mirror, Damien thought about his past. His eyes rested on the medals which were symbols of his service and all he had worked for. 

His gaze remained fixed on his reflection as he examined every detail of his attire making sure everything was perfect. His black military cap rested in his hands and he tightened his grip as took a deep breath ready to face the world.

Immediately, the door swung open, breaking the silence. Ivan stepped into the room well dressed in his own well ironed military uniform. The rows of medals on his chest gleamed in the soft light although they were not nearly as many as Damien’s.

Ivan's face broke into a warm smile as he took in Damien's attire, he admired how remarkable Damien looked in the ceremonial attire. Just like he did, all those years ago when he led them into the battlefield.

"Are you ready, Damien?" he asked, his voice firm and his tone calm.

Damien nodded curtly, his eyes locked onto Ivan's. He quickly placed the black cap on his head and Ivan gave him a firm nod.

They left the dressing room together, stepping into the main hall and the stares of the awaiting world. The murmur of the crowd grew louder as they got closer, their anticipation hanging heavy in the air.

Ivan immediately stepped onto the elevated podium and the crowd erupted into cheers, their faces filled with smiles as they clapped. There were two large holographic screens by his sides, projecting whatever was happening on the stage to the people at the back.

Ivan waited for the noise to die down before he cleared his throat and began to speak, 

"Ladies and gentlemen, important dignitaries, and fellow citizens," Ivan began, his voice resonating powerfully through the large speakers mounted near the walls, "today we gather to honor a remarkable individual who has selflessly protected our nation during its darkest times fighting dangerous wars." He started.

With these words, Ivan quietly turned to his right and took a quick step back, causing the crowd's attention to shift away from him.

"It is our great privilege to welcome the legendary warrior known to us all as the God of War – Damien Murdock," Ivan declared with a broad smile.

When Ivan was done with his introduction, Damien emerged from the shadows, his commanding presence captivating the audience's attention.

His face filled the large screens, and for a brief moment, the crowd was transfixed in shock and their voices fell silent, their eyes locked onto the face of the man who had saved their nation.

The silence was palpable, with everyone's eyes fixed keenly on Damien's determined face as they tried to hide their shock. Damien gazed at them as he searched for the right words to say, despite preparing for the speech ahead.

Immediately, Damien's strong voice filled the entire hall, shattering the silence and commanding the attention of all who listened, immediately.

"My fellow citizens," he began, his words echoing clearly and distinctly through the speakers, reaching every corner of the packed hall.

"I'm back, and I'm here to stay, committed to serving and protecting our nation with all my might, just as I have always done," Damien stated.

Damien's eyes scanned the crowd, his steady and firm gaze connecting with countless individuals, as he continued, 

"I'll do everything possible to keep our country safe, free from all harm, and more prosperous as we move forward." He continued.

The crowd remained perfectly still, listening keenly to every word that fell from Damien's lips, their faces reflecting gratitude and hope.

Damien's voice grew louder, filled with conviction and determination, as he kept talking, 

"Today marks the start of something new, a brighter future that we will build together, side by side, with unity and strength." He finished.

To end his speech, Damien's powerful voice echoed through the hall as he boldly declared the national slogan: 

"To the Empire I pledge my life! To the Alliance I am loyal till death!", his words hanging in the air like a promise.

With a firm gaze, Damien raised his arm to his head in a sharp salute, his other clenched fist a symbol of his unwavering dedication to the nation he had just sworn to protect.

For a brief moment, the crowd's silence was oppressive and Damien wondered if had said or done something to annoy the crowd before him but then, like a large wave crashing onto the rocks, the crowd suddenly exploded into a thunderous roar of applause, their collective voice shaking the very foundations of the ground beneath them.

Their voices, chants of "Damien! Damien! Damien!" and "God of War! God of War!" reverberated through the air, growing louder with each passing second, as people screamed, cried, and cheered with unwavering joy.

Some stood on chairs, waving banners and flags wildly, while others were frozen in awe, their faces reflecting the deep emotions that Damien's words had stirred within them. Damien's expression immediately transformed from uncertainty to humble gratitude as he stood, completely overwhelmed by the admiration of his people, his heart filled with pride and devotion.

Ivan stepped forward, beaming with pride, and placed a reassuring hand on Damien's shoulder and then he gave it a firm squeeze causing Damien to briefly turn around and smile at him. Damien smiled warmly as his attention returned to the crowd. Soon he couldn’t help but laugh at the overwhelming praise from the crowd.

With a raised hand and a humble bow, Damien said goodbye to the crowd, his voice barely heard above their applause.

“Thank you very much for making time to come here today,” he said.

He followed Ivan off the podium and as the festivities began, a crowd of excited people moved forward, eager to meet or at least get a clearer view of the legendary warrior. Many security personnels surrounded Damien immediately, carefully controlling the crowd, keeping them far enough to keep him safe while allowing him to have brief chats with his devoted fans.

Parents lifted children onto shoulders for a better view, while more fans eagerly approached him, asking for his autograph, some asked for photos, and even hugs. Damien kindly signed, smiled for pictures, hugged the children.

The security team stayed vigilant, always ready to intervene, but couldn't hide their smiles as they saw Damien's dedication.

As the celebration continued, Damien's presence created hope and unity, forming a strong bond between him and the people he had protected all this while, from the shadows. The crowd's enthusiasm remained high, thrilled by Damien's kindness and easy accessibility, qualities that made them love him more.

As Damien’s  gaze wandered through the sea of faces, his smile lingering from the countless well-wishers as he signed more autographs. His eyes suddenly locked onto a familiar pair of big brown eyes. Eyes he would recognize anywhere.

They were wide with shock, as the owner's mouth gaped open in stunned surprise.

Holly.