With Marcus's decision to stay and guide Turnipton's defenses, a new energy buzzed through the village. Word of the recent battle and victory had spread to neighboring settlements, and Turnipton was rapidly gaining a reputation as a haven for resilience and unity. Messages and messengers arrived, some with requests for guidance, others with tales of their own struggles.
Marcus spent the next few days devising a plan. He realized that if Turnipton was going to protect itself—and maybe help others—the village would need more than just a group of brave fighters. They would need structure, training, and, most of all, the ability to work as a unit.
The village green, usually reserved for festivals and gatherings, was converted into a makeshift training ground. Wooden dummies, straw targets, and simple obstacles lined the area as villagers young and old volunteered to learn the basics of defense. Marcus stood at the center, flanked by a group of villagers eager to listen.
