Introduction:
The aftermath of the first attack left Azure Hollow shaken but not broken. Under Fen Tian's leadership, the villagers began to rebuild their defenses, mend their wounds, and prepare for the challenges ahead. For the first time, the village's quiet existence transformed into a hub of determination and hope.
Training the Villagers:
Fen Tian took it upon himself to train the able-bodied villagers, sharing combat techniques and basic defensive strategies. He began dividing them into groups—scouts, defenders, and support roles—ensuring everyone had a purpose.
"Unity will be our greatest weapon," Fen Tian declared during one of their training sessions. "If we fight as one, even the strongest enemies will falter."
Among the trainees was a promising young woman named Yue Lin, whose agility and sharp instincts caught Fen Tian's attention. She quickly rose to become his second-in-command, helping organize the villagers and boosting their morale.
Strengthening the Village:
Guided by the energy of the Azure Core, Fen Tian and the fox-like creature infused the village's protective barrier with enhanced primordial energy. The barrier now glowed faintly at night, a shimmering shield that gave the villagers a sense of security.
Fen Tian also enlisted the help of the village's blacksmith, Elder Gong, to forge new weapons. Using rare materials Fen Tian had gathered during his journey, the blacksmith crafted blades, bows, and armor imbued with traces of primordial power.
Strategic Planning:
In the evenings, Fen Tian and the village elders would gather to strategize. Using maps and intelligence gathered by scouts, they identified potential weak points in the surrounding forest and discussed how to fortify them.
"We need to act, not just defend," Yue Lin suggested during one meeting. "If we strike at their supply lines or uncover their hiding spots, we could weaken them before they attack again."
Fen Tian nodded thoughtfully. "Agreed. But we must proceed cautiously. Our resources are limited, and one wrong move could expose the village."