The morning light gleamed on the platinum-veined seawalls as [Greybeard Bill](59HZ3WMH) entered the fortified city of Scant. Around him, dwarven-crafted towers bristling with ballistae stood tall. The streets hummed with life—smiths hammering, sailors preparing their ships, and marines practicing drills. A people hardened by the Herzog’s raids never lowered their guard.

The streets of Scant led [Greybeard Bill](59HZ3WMH) and the party toward Castle Scant, a massive stronghold of carved ironstone. Its towering gates were inscribed with ancient dwarven runes, glowing faintly in the morning sun. Everyone could sense the history within these storied walls—especially Bill, as memories of past battles came rushing back.

Inside the vaulted halls of Castle Scant, [Greybeard Bill](59HZ3WMH) marveled at the towering murals depicting pivotal moments in Onnwal's history. There were dwarves breaking chains, ships on fire in the harbor, and banners of the Herzog falling in defeat. The guards lining the halls stood as still as statues, their armor polished to gleam like silver.

At the end of the great hall stood [Zyl Grayshadow](MQ4CNM4P). Draped in black and silver, Zyl’s braided beard was adorned with intricate platinum rings that glimmered under the high window’s sunlight. Her sharp eyes followed Bill as he entered. With a firm step and calm authority, she greeted him warmly, 'Scant remembers you, [Greybeard Bill](59HZ3WMH).'

Zyl recalled the history Bill had written into Onnwal’s own. 'The mines you saved, the marines you rallied, and the raids you turned back—these are things no one here will forget. This week, during our Festival of Independence, you will stand before the clans as an honored friend of Onnwal,' she declared.

Bill, hesitant yet moved by Zyl’s gratitude, finally nodded. 'I’ll stand by you as I always have,' he said. The room erupted in cheers, and Zyl stepped closer, her hand over her heart. Bill couldn’t help but feel a warmth he hadn’t felt in years. He was home, in a way.

The Festival of Independence began with a booming celebration in the streets. Parades of dwarves, children, and sailors marched through Scant,’s vibrant colors and music filling the air. Bill watched with a rare smile as fireworks lit up the night sky over the Azure Sea.

It was during the festival that Bill sat with Zyl on a balcony overlooking the Azure Sea. 'Onnwal endures because of people like you,' Zyl said. Bill shook his head. 'Onnwal endures because its people refuse to give up. I only did my duty.' The waves below echoed Bill’s words.

As the festival came to a close, Zyl addressed her people. 'On this day, we celebrate our independence. But let us also recognize the allies who made it possible. [Greybeard Bill](59HZ3WMH), a true friend of Onnwal!' The crowd roared, and Bill, though uncomfortable, raised his hand in acknowledgment.

As Bill prepared to leave, Zyl presented him with a gift: a silver charm shaped like a hawk, a token of Onnwal’s respect and gratitude. Touched, Bill hung it on his belt of old sailor’s charms. There it would remain, a reminder of his bond to the Free State of Onnwal.