TIMBER —
A Day That Changed Timber
Today, we remember an event destined to remain in Timber's history.
In the aftermath of Ultimecia's defeat and the SeeD victory, the world found itself facing a new political landscape. Among the most important consequences of that period was the definitive opening of a path toward Timber's independence, long desired by its citizens.
Esthar was the first to break the silence. President Laguna Loire, surprisingly a former editor of Timber Maniacs, initiated a new phase of diplomatic relations with Galbadia's newly elected president, Fury Caraway, who had previously served as commander of the Galbadian armed forces.
The two leaders met and, following a series of diplomatic talks, reached an agreement to sign a historic peace treaty. But that was not the only agreement destined to change the region's future.
Timber Becomes Independent
After signing the treaty, Laguna Loire and Fury Caraway traveled to Timber, where a solemn ceremony was held in the central square before a huge crowd.
It was there that the long-awaited agreement was signed: Timber officially became an independent nation and a new free democracy.
For the citizens in attendance, it was the culmination of a long-held aspiration. After years of tensions and foreign control, the city's destiny would finally return to the hands of its own people.
The square erupted in celebration as the two presidents shook hands on stage, sealing what would go down in history as Timber's Day of Independence.
The Balamb SeeD at the Ceremony
Some of the SeeD from Balamb Garden who had taken part in the mission against Ultimecia also attended the historic ceremony.
Among them were Squall Leonhart, commander of the SeeD, and Rinoa Heartilly, daughter of President Fury Caraway.
Their presence made the celebration even more significant. The same SeeD who had contributed to the victory over Ultimecia now stood among the crowd, witnessing the birth of a new democracy.
For Rinoa, in particular, the day was an especially remarkable one: she watched as her father, the president of Galbadia, officially recognized Timber's independence.
A Special Return for Laguna Loire
For the president of Esthar, the day also carried a personal meaning.
Before entering politics and becoming one of the world's most important figures, Laguna Loire had served as an editor of Timber Maniacs.
His return to the city, this time as president of Esthar and as one of the key figures behind an agreement destined to change its future, was a remarkable and meaningful coincidence.
A New Page in History
Ultimecia's defeat had opened a new era. Old rivalries and conflicts were giving way to new diplomatic relations, while nations sought to redefine their relationships with one another.
In this new landscape, Timber's independence became one of the most important symbols of change.
Today, as we look back on that day, one of its most significant images remains: two presidents standing on a stage, a celebrating crowd before them, and a city that, after years of waiting, could finally proclaim itself free.
Timber had earned the right to write its own future.