[Phoenix Headquarters]

"Please, may I have your attention," Ethan's voice rang out from the front of the Phoenix Headquarters, its tone steady yet laden with the weight of sorrow.

Gradually, the murmurs of the gathered crowd subsided, leaving behind a solemn silence. Before him stood members of Echelon, Association, and Phoenix, united by a shared purpose and a profound loss.

"I extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for honoring Commander Gorgon and Vice Commander Lucien at yesterday's funeral," Ethan began, his words measured and resonant. He paused, taking a moment to gather his thoughts as he met the gaze of each individual before him, their somber expressions reflecting the collective mourning they shared.

"Commander Gorgon founded Echelon with a singular purpose: to safeguard us from threats that loomed over our heads. He dedicated himself tirelessly to ensuring our safety, and Lucien, his unwavering ally, stood steadfastly by his side, extending aid to all in need."

Pausing briefly to gather his thoughts, Ethan's eyes glinted with a flicker of resolve. "Yet, tragically, they have been torn from us. Their lives sacrificed in the line of duty. It is incumbent upon us to honor their memory with the utmost reverence and gratitude."

"We owe them a debt that can never be repaid. I implore you, let their legacy be etched into our hearts and minds forevermore. Let us strive to emulate their ideals, to uphold the principles they held dear. In doing so, we ensure that their legacy lives on, a beacon of hope and inspiration guiding us through the darkest of times."

Raising his voice, Ethan's grip tightened on the microphone, his resolve palpable in every word. "Echelon will endure. I refuse to allow their vision to fade into oblivion, and I call upon each of you for your unwavering support. Their sacrifice shall not be in vain. We will not permit the enemy to evade justice. We will hold them accountable. We will exact retribution with unyielding determination."

A hushed reverence settled over the room, the resonance of Ethan's declaration lingering in the air. His words reverberated with the promise of resilience and continuity, igniting a flame of determination within the hearts of all who bore witness.

------

[Guildmaster's office]

"So, you've made the decision to take the helm of Echelon?" Norman inquired, his tone measured.

"Yes, father," Ethan replied respectfully, bracing himself for potential resistance.

"Very well. You have my approval," Norman acquiesced.

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Ethan's breath caught in his throat, taken aback by Norman's unexpected consent. He had anticipated opposition, yet now found himself pleasantly surprised by his father's acceptance.

"I do have my concerns, Ethan. However, I understand the weight of your responsibilities," Norman confessed, his voice tinged with both apprehension and fatherly concern. "You have my blessing to proceed. And know that I am here for you, always, to offer my support."

"Thank you, father," Ethan responded with heartfelt gratitude.

"Take care, son," Wanda added, her presence a comforting anchor beside Norman.

"And you too, mother," Ethan replied, his words filled with affection and appreciation.

"Big brother, are you leaving again?" Mark's voice held a hint of concern as he looked up at Ethan.

"Yes, but it won't be for long. I promise," Ethan reassured him, gently tousling his brother's hair with affection.

"Alright. Take care," Mark said, his expression softening.

"Thanks, little buddy," Ethan replied with a smile, giving Mark a playful pat on the shoulder before heading out of the room.

As Norman watched Ethan's departure, a bittersweet mixture of pride and concern tugged at his heartstrings. "He's come a long way," he remarked quietly, his gaze lingering on the door through which Ethan had just passed.

"Yes, dear, he truly has," Wanda agreed, her voice infused with a blend of relief and apprehension. As she wrapped her arm around Norman's, she couldn't help but add, "But now that he's back with us, I pray that everything goes well."

------

[Training ground]

Ethan stepped onto the training ground, greeted by the warm embrace of the sun and the gentle caress of the wind. His gaze swept over the assembled Echelon executives, each one radiating an aura of seriousness and determination, poised to heed his command.

"Is everyone present?" Ethan queried, his tone respectful yet authoritative.

"Yes, sir," came the unified response from the executives, their voices ringing with unwavering commitment.

"Do any of you have any thoughts or concerns regarding my assumption of the leadership role within Echelon?" Ethan inquired with respect, his gaze sweeping across the executives.

"No, sir. We believe you possess the qualities necessary to lead with excellence," voiced one of the executives, the sentiment echoed by nods of agreement from the others.

"Thank you for your vote of confidence," Ethan acknowledged sincerely. "Now, as the newly appointed head of Echelon, my foremost directive is to ensure unwavering support for the families of our fallen comrades. It is imperative that we extend our assistance to them in every possible way during their time of need."

"Understood, sir," the executives replied in unison, their resolve evident in their synchronized response.

"Very well. Let's proceed," Ethan declared, pivoting to lead the way toward the exit.

However, just as they began to move, the sound of hurried footsteps approached from behind, prompting Ethan to pause and turn around.

"Wait, young master. Please stop!" The familiar voice of Butler rang out urgently.

Ethan pivoted on his heel, his gaze falling upon Butler, Trevor, his team, and other Phoenix executives, all hurrying toward him with palpable concern etched upon their faces.

"Boss, you could've at least bid us farewell," Leo chimed in, his expression a mix of disappointment and reproach.

"Yeah, you can't just vanish into thin air," Dagger added, his arms folded across his chest in a gesture of defiance.

Ethan chuckled softly, attempting to alleviate the tension. "Come on, guys, I'm not disappearing off the face of the planet," he reassured them, his tone light-hearted.

Emily interjected with a warm smile, "True, but they'll be sorely miss you.."

Ethan's brow furrowed slightly in confusion. "Wait, 'they'? Who exactly are you referring to?" he inquired, his curiosity piqued.

"Obviously, I'll come with you. You'll need my help," Emily declared with an air of certainty, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.

Ethan shook his head adamantly. "No, I'll manage just fine on my own," he insisted.

Trevor stepped forward, lending his support to Emily's suggestion. "I agree with Emily, young master. Having her by your side would be invaluable in devising strategic plans."

"Yes young master. Master and Madam also think that Emily's expertise could greatly benefit you," Butler chimed in, his expression earnest and supportive.

"Alright, but you'll have to pass a test first," Ethan conceded, a hint of determination in his tone.

"Absolutely, I'm up for it," Emily replied enthusiastically, her eagerness evident.

With a nod, Ethan gestured for Emily to accompany him. "Let's get started then," he said, leading the way.

"Take care, young master," Butler bid farewell, waving his hand as they departed.

"Goodbye, everyone," Ethan called out, offering a final wave before exiting Phoenix headquarters, Emily at his side.