Chapter 11

It had been nearly three months since the attacks on Demacia and Ezreal was happy to see it quickly returning to its former glory. The streets had long been cleaned and most of the minor damage had been repaired. Scaffolding cluttered the more damaged parts of the city and tall cranes poked above the houses. The smaller businesses had been reopened by their former owners and the city carried on as normal. Hustle and bustle was as present as it ever was and the city had life once again. One thing was for certain, the citizens of Demacia were resilient.

Ezreal was able to witness this first hand. He had decided, after all, to call Demacia his home once and for all. He had grown fond of the shining city and most of all a certain citizen that also called it home.

"Get up and get dressed," Lux said as she barged into Ezreal's room. "We don't want to be late today of all days. Oh, I can't wait to see Teemo and Graves again."

Ezreal laughed as he sat up in his bed. He didn't realize until now that he had been dreaming the day away. And Lux was right, today was not a day to be late. He hopped out of bed only to stare at an impatient Lux. She was already dressed in her newly shined and formal set of armor with her hair perfectly styled and her wand safely on her back.

"You've got fifteen minutes. Let's go!" Lux said before leaving the room.

Ezreal shuffled over to the bathroom before gazing at himself in the mirror. His hair was a mess and his eyes were a little puffy. He had been out late every night this week helping with the clean-up efforts around the city. Today though he and his friends were the guests of honor in a city wide parade while at the end being honored for their bravery on the battlefield.

As Ezreal splashed water on his face he couldn't help but think about how far he had come in his journey. Never in a million years would he have thought of ending up in Demacia. He was an explorer who got by on selling trinkets that he found. Now, well he was kind of the same, but he had a home in Demacia and for that he was happy.

Ezreal ran his hands through his hair, put on his normal clothes, and fastened his goggles to his head. Lux was worried about looking her best, but all Ezreal wanted to do was see his friends. Though he, Lux, Garen, and Galio all remained in Demacia, Ezreal hadn't seen Graves and Teemo since the attack on Demacia. Teemo, the brave yordle scout, had returned to Bandle City only to receive a hero's welcome and the highest honors from both the Scouts of the Mothership and the Megling Commandos. Graves, after being sprung from his prison cell, returned to pursuing his ever backstabbing comrade Twisted Fate everywhere from Piltover to Bilgewater.

Ezreal was only able to keep up with them through newspaper clippings or the occasional letter in the mail, however he was excited as both of them were supposed to show up today. Ezreal made his way down the hall away from his apartment and towards the front of the building. He assumed that's where Lux was now impatiently waiting. He made his way down the stairs and out the front door before arriving on the city street. Immediately, he was greeted by Lux.

"It's about time," Lux said barely able to contain her excitement. "Let's go."

Lux grabbed Ezreal's arm and was dragging him down the sidewalk.

"Are you excited? You should be. There is nothing in Runeterra like a Demacian parade!" Lux said gleefully not allowing Ezreal to get a word in and pulling him faster down the sidewalk.

As Lux pulled, Ezreal merely followed and listened to her excitement of the day. He noticed how nice of a day it was. The sky was a bright blue and the wind was blowing ever so slightly. Birds could be heard chirping in the distance and the city was peaceful…well most of it anyway.

As they rounded a corner, the sounds of the parade hit Ezreal like a bucket of ice water. Tons of people gathered along a blocked off route all wearing colorful clothes and jewelry. Umbrellas, necklaces, noisemakers, and balloons all dotted throughout the excited crowd as they awaited the celebration. Men selling food, drink, and souvenirs walked up and down the route yelling over the crowd trying to sell their wares. Ezreal was in awe. He had never seen anything like it in his life.

"This way!" Lux exclaimed as she was waving Ezreal in another direction.

Ezreal hurried over to her position and followed her down a couple of alleys.

"Where are we going? The parade is back there," Ezreal said struggling to keep up.

"We have to get on our float, silly," Lux said as they exited an alley that led them behind a large building and the start of the parade route. Sitting in front of Ezreal was a massive wooden float decorated to look like the battle that had occurred just three months ago. It showed Demacia reigning victorious over Noxus and was covered in vibrant colors and armor. Even pieces of Karthas' slain giants adorned the sides. Six armored horses waited at the front for the command to pull away.

Ezreal stared admiring the float in all its beauty, "We get to ride on that?"

"That we do."

"Yes sir!"

Ezreal heard two familiar voices say from behind him.

"Graves! Teemo!" Ezreal exclaimed as he rushed over to his friends.

Teemo gleefully gave Ezreal a hug while Graves stood perfectly still and said, "Whoa hold on there. I don't do hugs."

Graves held out his hand and gave Ezreal a bone shattering handshake, "Good to see ya, Ezreal."

"You too, Graves," Ezreal said as he rubbed his hand.

"All of you can talk on the float. Come on up, the parade is about to start," Lux said who was now standing above the trio and on top of the float.

Graves and Teemo climbed up with Ezreal bringing up the rear. Once on top of the float, Ezreal realized they were on by far the tallest of them all. Stretched out in front of their float were at least twenty more slightly smaller ones all decorated with different colors, objects, and magnificently dressed people. Each float seemed to have a different theme and Ezreal was enjoying himself trying to figure out each one.

"And there he is, the man of the hour," Ezreal heard a voice come from behind him. Ezreal turned to see Garen dressed in the most impressive set of armor he had ever seen. His signature blade was hanging firmly on his back. "Glad you could make it, Ezreal."

"I wouldn't miss it for the world," Ezreal replied with a smile.

A horn sounded in the distant prompting Garen to say, "Alright everyone take your places on the platform. Everyone is going to want to see the Heroes of Demacia."

Ezreal, Lux, Graves, and Teemo all took their place in the center of the float. Garen then yelled at the horses who all began to pull in the same direction following the float that was directly in front of them. Ezreal was the happiest he had been in a while. He allowed the cool breeze to blow his hair as he looked out over the city.

As he was admiring the surroundings, the statute on the front of the float began to move. After a few seconds it straightened up and turned towards Ezreal only to reveal a familiar face.

"Galio!" Ezreal yelled as the stone gargoyle walked over. "You get to be on the float too?"

"Well I am a hero," Galio said jokingly as he struck a pose.

Ezreal laughed and said, "That you are. You saved my life from Karthas' attack."

"I just did what any friend would do," Galio said placing his rocky hand on Ezreal's shoulder. "And besides you are the one that defeated Karthas. I just provided a shield."

Both Galio and Ezreal laughed before Garen turned their attention back to the parade, "We are nearing the actual parade route. Take your places."

Ezreal could hear the men and women that were leading the parade with their many different horns, drums, and other musical instruments. Even louder than the music was the parade crowd gathered on each side of the road cheering and clapping as hard as they could. Ezreal just stared in amazement as the crowd grew even louder once their float approached. Confetti and streamers filled the air covering their float in a multitude of colors.

"Try waving. They love it," Lux said as she leaned in close to Ezreal who had up to this point just been standing in a trance.

Ezreal looked at the people below him and waved. He could see their smiling faces back at him and he could just feel how appreciative they were. Ezreal had never felt so loved in his life. He had always been a loner and an explorer, but now he had friends and for the first time…a family.

Ezreal couldn't help but soak up every last minute of the day. He waved for so long that he thought his hand was going to fall right off his wrist. Once one hand would get tired he would wave the other one to near exhaustion. The parade route was long and winding as the Demacians had obviously made sure that it passed through every part of the city that wasn't under major construction. As they neared the town center, Ezreal noticed how most of the floats broke off into different directions and disappeared. His however was heading straight for City Hall.

"Which way are we going, Garen?" Ezreal asked.

"To City Hall," Garen replied.

Ezreal's brow furrowed and he only replied with a confused look.

"I have a surprise for all of you."

As the float approached City Hall, the horses came to a halt right at the foot of the stairs. Once the float had completely stopped, Garen hopped down from his position and began to make his way off the float.

"All of you follow me," Garen said motioning to everyone on the float.

Confused, the group looked around at one another but decided not to question Garen. They merely followed Garen down the ladder on the side of the float and made their way up the many steps. As the climbed the steps of City Hall, Ezreal noticed a large, temporary platform had been set up with a podium to one side. Ezreal looked behind him and noticed also that the crowd from the parade route had all gathered at the foot of the steps.

"What's going on?" Ezreal said in a hushed whisper as he nudged Lux.

"I have no idea," Lux replied.

Ezreal looked back at the rest of his friends to see their reactions. Teemo, of course, was skipping along without a worry in the world. Like always he was just happy to be there. Graves on the other hand looked a little nervous. He kept looking around as if at any moment someone was going to swoop in and take him away.

Once they had reached the top of the stairs, Ezreal noticed four small "X's" drawn on the floor one after the other. Under each X was a name. Teemo, Graves, Lux, and Ezreal were all laid out under each X.

"Stand on the X that has your name under it and wait," Garen quickly said to them before taking his place behind the podium.

Ezreal found his X and took his place. He looked up only to notice that the float had now moved and he could see just how large of a crowd had gathered. Every piece of ground up to the steps of City Hall was covered with the citizens of Demacia. Except this time they weren't cheering rather just waiting for Garen to speak. Ezreal began to grow nervous and he could feel sweat beading on his forehead.

"Ladies and Gentlemen of Demacia," Garen started as he took his place behind the podium. "We have proven time and time again that this city is resilient, strong, and stands for everything good in Runeterra."

The crowd gave a round of applause and a quick cheer before allowing Garen to continue, "You all know of the tragic and malicious attack that this city suffered at the hands of Noxus just three months ago. In this unfortunate battle Demacia reigned victorious, but sadly lost many lives both soldiers and citizens. We can never repay them for their ultimate sacrifice, but we can honor them for centuries to come."

Garen turned and stepped down from the podium only to walk next to a large object covered by a white sheet. Garen grabbed the sheet and gave it a tug showing the crowd the monument that was underneath. Ezreal couldn't help but mouth the word whoa at the sight of the beautiful statue that now sat behind him.

The statue had four people standing back to back with a central figure in the center that was slightly taller than the rest. The ones on each side represented a person for each direction; one staring east, one west, one south, and the final one, which was staring in their direction, was looking north. The northern figure was one of a soldier standing in full armor behind a shield with his sword at his side. The southern figure was a direct mirror of the northern soldier while the figures on either side made up a woman civilian in a dress and a male civilian in everyday clothes.

Ezreal looked up at the center figure and examined it closely. He knew that person and it very quickly became apparent who it was. Facing north was a figure in impressive armor adorned with spikes along the shoulders. A crown rested upon his head and at his side was his signature lance gleaming in the sunlight. He was at peace and right where he wanted to be…among his people.

All of the figures were resting on a square, granite pedestal that was engraved with the names of every person that fell to Noxus. A separate plaque was affixed above the rest of the names and it read "Jarvan IV the Exemplar of Demacia." The monument stood tall at the entrance to City Hall and the sun of the day gleamed beautifully off its face. Ezreal turned to see the crowd who remained solemn with respect.

Garen approached the podium and spoke again, "Let us never forget those who gave their lives for this city. Because of their sacrifice, we may live. May their souls watch over us and protect us. With this monument we can honor their lives and pay thanks to them and their families."

The crowd cheered and clapped once Garen had finished speaking. After a few seconds, Garen lifted his hand to silence them once again.

"But let us not forget the ones that are still with us. I am happy to present to you your champions of Demacia!"

Garen motioned to Ezreal and his friends and the crowd went wild. Everywhere Ezreal looked he saw jumping and screaming people all happy to see Ezreal, Lux, Teemo, and Graves. Ezreal didn't know what to do other than smile and wave. He still didn't really know why he was up on stage. They had just rode a float through the streets of Demacia in order to see everyone so there had to be some other reason for them to be standing up here.

"Now without further ado," Garen continued, "we would like to give to the four of you the highest honor that Demacia has to grant. The Medal of Bravery."

Ezreal watched as a Demacian knight in full armor walked over to Garen carrying a small wooden case. Garen took the case from the knight who bowed and returned to his post at the side of the stage. Garen opened the box and revealed to everyone four shining gold medals in the form of the Demacian crest.

"This medal is reserved for only the bravest men and women who have served this fair city," Garen continued. "We would be honored to present them to you. Because without you this city would not be where it is today. I speak for everyone and saying thank you from the bottom of our hearts."

Garen then walked by each one of Ezreal's friends as he placed a medal around their neck and said thank you for everything. As Garen got to Ezreal he paused, looked Ezreal in the eyes, and nodded as if giving a different level of respect. Once he had awarded each person with a medal he returned once again to his podium.

"You now make up a small group of men and women who have been granted this honor. You are now and will forever be a Demacian."

The crowd exploded in cheers. It was louder than Ezreal had ever heard before and all he could do was smile and wave. He and his friends looked towards each other and Ezreal could tell they were as elated as he.

Again, Garen raised his hands to calm the crowds. After it had grown silent Garen spoke once more.

"This is not all that we have for you," Ezreal perked up after hearing the words from Garen.

"First, I must address a certain yordle scout that had no obligation to myself or even our city, but in the face of danger never wavered from his duties."

Hearing this the happy-go-lucky Teemo quickly straightened up, puffed out his chest, and stood at attention.

"Teemo for your bravery on the battlefield and your cunning skills, the city of Demacia offers you a lifetime supply of the toxins to make your signature darts," Garen said with a smile. "Our merchants will supply you for free anytime you should be in the area and are in need of supplies to continue your missions for Bandle City."

The crowd cheered as Teemo's eyes lit up like an excited child. He was beside himself with glee and happily saluted the Demacian champion.

"And next we have Malcolm Graves," Garen said looking to the outlaw who was still a little on edge. Graves locked eyes with Garen waiting to hear what he had to say.

"Though your record of criminal activity is a lengthy one, the city of Demacia grants you full clemency for your crimes. Because of your selfless actions on the battlefield for a people that was not your own, your slate has been wiped clean. As of this day you are no longer a wanted man in the eyes of Demacia and all its territories."

Graves' face went from one of worry to pure relaxation. He gave off a light laugh under his breath and brandished a smile as he nodded to Garen and waved to the citizens of Demacia who returned a roaring wave of cheers.

"To my sister, Luxanna. You have served Demacia since you were born and continue to this day. This city is a better place because of your services and so on behalf of the Demacian College of Magic we grant to you the honorable title of High Magi."

The largest smile Ezreal had ever seen plastered itself across Lux's face before it was quickly covered with both of her hands. Lux could hardly contain her happiness and tears slowly flowed down her face. She was overwhelmed with emotions, but managed to wave to an adoring and cheering crowd.

"And last, but certainly not least, we have the prodigal explorer, Ezreal," Garen said smiling in Ezreal's direction who was waiting nervously.

"I must say that when we first met I didn't know what to think of you," Garen continued. "I thought you were scatterbrained and lost and only cared for yourself. It was Jarvan who convinced me that you were something special. Trust in him, Jarvan would say and every single day I am thankful that I listened."

Jarvan?! Ezreal immediately thought to himself, Jarvan was the one who always believed in him? This whole time Ezreal thought Garen was the one who convinced Jarvan to take him seriously and trust him, but in reality it was the other way around. Jarvan trusted him, knew his heart, and saved his life. A slight twinge of sadness flowed over Ezreal at the realization that he would never be able to thank his friend for everything, but it was quickly replaced with happiness knowing that he didn't let Jarvan down.

"You have grown to be Demacia's strongest ally and most valued friend," Garen continued before looking over at Ezreal. "My friend as well. You have taught me that not all people should be judged by their cover and that even scatterbrained explorers can be true heroes."

Ezreal laughed as Garen gave him a nod before continuing, "Because of this and because of your efforts to defend this city we want to present you with this."

Within seconds, another knight appeared at Ezreal's side holding yet another wooden box. The knight opened the box only to reveal a sparkling, new gauntlet sitting comfortably on a bed of satin. In the center laid the very disk that he dug out of the Ironspike Mountains and that became the source of his power.

After a slight hesitation, Ezreal picked up the gauntlet and slid it onto his left arm. As he held it out in front of him to examine it, he noticed that it was slightly loose and immediately looked over to Garen.

"Place your finger on the panel underneath," Garen said noticing Ezreal's confusion.

Rolling over his forearm, Ezreal noticed a small, flat panel that was in the shape of a fingerprint. He placed his finger on the panel and watched in awe as the gauntlet adjusted to his arm. Gears turned and rods fired all to tighten the beautiful metal gauntlet perfectly around his arm. Ezreal stared as he watched it work as one unit as if it were pure clockwork.

Ezreal moved his fingers within the gauntlet and twisted it over and over again to look at its intricate design. It fit perfectly and he had never seen anything like it in his life.

"It only responds to you," Garen said again still standing at the podium. "It was custom designed by none other than the revered Cecil B. Heimerdinger of Bandle City. I think you will find it as an upgrade to your old one."

Ezreal was speechless as all he could do was stare at his new gauntlet. He twisted it over and over again wiggling his fingers with excitement. He looked to the crowd and smiled only to have them roar again with excitement.

"Thank you," Ezreal finally managed to say.

"You are very welcome, Ezreal," Garen said proudly.

"We hope that these gifts will show the level of pure gratitude that we have. You are all welcome in Demacia anytime," Garen said before turning to the crowd. "I give you now, your Champions of Demacia!"

The crowd cheered, yelled, and clapped once again so loud that it could be heard for miles around. Ezreal, Lux, Teemo, and Graves all looked at one another before taking a bow and waving at the crowd. They then followed Garen as they made their way into City Hall.

"So what do we do now?" Ezreal finally said once it was only the five of them away from the crowd.

"I don't know about the rest of you, but I've got business to attend to in Bilgewater," Graves replied. "Me and an old friend of mine need to have a chat."

"And I already have missions to report for in Bandle City," Teemo said.

"Well it was so good to see both of you," Ezreal said as he shook Graves' hand and gave Teemo a hug. "Please stay in touch."

"We will," Teemo quickly replied.

"Enjoy living in Demacia now," Graves said as he and Teemo turned to leave.

"Stay out of trouble, Graves," Garen yelled after them. "Remember, your slate is only clean as of today not any future crimes. I don't want to see you on our list again."

Graves' lifted a hand in the air and waved without turning as him and Teemo continued to walk out of City Hall. Immediately upon exiting the room, he lit up a cigar, gave it a puff, and was gone.

"Well I guess you are going to stay here with me now, huh?" Lux asked to Ezreal as she gave him a smile.

Garen, who now had a strange look on his face, quickly said, "Um, I'm going to leave you two alone. Thank you again for everything. Today was a great day."

"Bye, Garen and thank you," Ezreal said as the Demacian champion left through another door.

"I think I'm going to like it here," Ezreal said as he and Lux walked out into the courtyard. "Being able to explore, but also to have a place to call home will be nice."

"Agreed. And we will be together," Lux replied.

As they walked through the courtyard, they quickly got the feeling that they weren't alone any longer. Ezreal quickly turned only to notice a tall, imposing man who had a sense of purpose about him. He wore a dark gray breastplate and matching leg guards with a flowing cape that hung down his back. Two impressive pistols hung on his hips.

Ezreal moved to confront the man, but the man started before he could speak.

"I don't mean to alarm you," the man said holding out one of his hands, "You are Ezreal, correct?"

Ezreal nodded, curious as to whom this new man was. Neither he nor Lux had heard him come in and just minutes ago they were completely alone.

"My name is Lucian and I need your help. The Black Mist, its coming."

THE END