The golden sunlight spilled across the grand plaza of the Crème Republic, illuminating the sculpted statues and the citizens. Grand Madeleine Cookie stepped into the tableau with her usual majesty.

She paused near a fountain, its waters sparkling as they cascaded into a wide basin. A group of young Paladin cadets, fresh from the Academy, marched past, their uniforms crisp, and their expressions earnest. A faint smile touched Grand Madeleine Cookie's lips. "Such dedication. Reminds one of Madeleine Cookie in his earlier days." Her heart swelled with a familiar pride for her son, a hero who embodied the very best of their House's commitment to justice.