Allan and Lysander munched on their snack, enjoying the succulent meat and grilled vegetables on the kabobs as the finale started, gazing up into the sky with wonder. The big armored man and his bear looked for all the world like a child and his pet dog. Allan had been working with the Coalition long enough to know that such a display was just for show and there wasn't much actual magic involved, but he wouldn't let that spoil his enjoyment of the moment. He gave himself over fully to the spectacle, oooing and ahhhing with the rest of the crowd, and joining their cheers, even dancing briefly with a twirling girl, laughing with delight and exulting in celebration. His mechanical joints weren't suited to graceful, flowing movements, however, and after a few steps, he let her pass, since she seemed to be dancing through the crowd, rather than seeking out one partner. He nodded to her graciously, and she blew him a kiss, giggling. So many others were dancing that even her violent yellow dress was lost in the sea of color before long, and still grinning, Allan let the crowd begin to wash him away. There were a few people moving determinedly in the opposite direction of the crowd's flow, however, and one of them found Allan, straightening his disheveled TAC uniform before asking a question.

"What?" Allan called over the din of celebration.

"I said, are you Allan Phaedrus?" The courier had to shout over the white noise of the crowd.

"I am. What tidings does the Coalition send?" Lysander had noticed the exchange, and moved to stand next to Allan, the massive bear parting the crowd enough to give Allan and the courier a bubble.

"This is for you. May the Coalition stand strong!" After producing a letter and proffering it to Allan, the courier was swept away by the crowd before Allan had a chance to reply. 

To Lysander, he said, "Let's hope this is good news." He broke the seal and unfolded the letter, reading to himself carefully. It opened with a description of Allan's achievements, and then declared a new mission and ordered him to report to the Marrow Lock Airship hangar at his earliest convenience. Good news indeed. He was enjoying the celebration, but in truth, he really wanted to be out in the field again, doing good for the people the Coalition protected and served. And, in deeper truth, wanted to be out seeing the world and exploring new places. With determination in his eyes and a sense of purpose in his step, he whistled to Lysander and made his way through the crowd towards the hangars.