Summoning America

Chapter 149: The Home of the Brave

They walked past the Miami Beach Boardwalk, catching glimpses of the opulent Art Deco hotels and the lively cafes, bursting with life and music. As they strolled along the bustling promenade, the Cryseilians noticed the preparations for an upcoming cultural fair. From the fluttering banners and the temporary stalls, it was evident that the locals were enthusiastic about preserving and showcasing Earthly culture, amidst the blend of Elysian influences. Liraz had heard Anders claim that the United States was a transferred country, but dismissed that claim as a tall tale until now.

Amid the high spirits and festivity, they couldn't help but notice the Christmas decorations. Palm trees were strung with twinkling lights, storefronts sparkled with tinsel and garlands, and oversized pine trees adorned plazas and lobbies – similar to the decorated tree in the hotel lobby. To Sorin, these were fascinating insights into American culture and religion. To the others, the holiday spirit was infectious and uplifting.

Towards the late afternoon, after spending the day exploring, the Cryseilians finally settled down to rest by the beach, the cool sea breeze providing a welcome contrast to the warm sun overhead. Neith and Liraz remained by Anders' side, their gazes frequently moving between the lively beach scene and the alluring horizon, taking in the spectacle of American civilization.

Amid the melange of beachgoers, a familiar figure caught Ambassador Anders' eye. He squinted against the sunlight, trying to discern the faces under the shade of a beach umbrella. His heart thumped in his chest as he recognized the two individuals – none other than President Kaios and his wife, Raita.

"Is that...?" He murmured to himself, disbelief coating his voice.

The two Parpaldians glanced toward the Cryseilian group, their eyes meeting with Anders. The surprise on their faces was evident, but it quickly shifted into delight. "Ambassador Anders?" President Kaios called out, his voice carrying over the murmur of the beach.

At his beckoning, Ambassador Anders looked at Neith and Liraz with a mixture of surprise and excitement. He was about to introduce the Cryseilians to some very significant figures indeed.

"President Kaios, Lady Raita," Anders greeted with a nod of his head as he approached, the smile on his face warm and genuine. "It's a pleasure to see you both here."

"As with you, Ambassador," Kaios replied, lifting the sunglasses off his face. "We finally got the chance to go on vacation; I heard from Emperor Ludius and Remille that Miami was a good spot."

Anders agreed, "Excellent choice. Miami isn't as lively as it used to be, but that means we get the beaches all to ourselves, pretty much." He paused, "Ah, may I present Princess Neith and Ambassador Liraz from the distant land of the Sacred Kingdom of Great Cryseilies."

"Princess Neith, Ambassador Liraz, a pleasure," Kaios greeted them with a polite nod, his wife following suit. Raita's eyes sparkled with curiosity as she studied the two Cryseilians.

"Likewise, Mister President, Lady Raita," Neith responded, offering a curtsy. Liraz merely bowed in acknowledgment.

Raita couldn't help but express her fascination. "Cryseilies... I've never heard of it. An isolated nation, isn't it?"

Neith shared a glance with Liraz before nodding. "Indeed, Lady Raita. Our homeland is rather distant and isolated. We've only now had the chance to reconnect with the lands of our ancestors; it is a pleasant surprise knowing that these lands have not been scoured by demons."

"Refugees from the era of Nosgorath?" Kaios asked, an intrigued glint in his eyes.

Neith nodded.

"You know, the Americans here actually defeated the Demon King."