The bells of Everwood rang, not with alarm, but with hope. A new chapter was beginning.
Invitations
At the council table, Itsuki and his companions debated the letters of invitation. Lyra questioned diplomacy, Elara scoffed at nobles, Selena perfected every seal, and Lunaria dreamed of performances.
But Itsuki's resolve was unshaken: "If Everwood is to be recognized, it must stand proudly before all nations. We invite them not to beg acceptance, but to show them who we are."
The crest of Everwood, a phoenix rising from crystal roots, sealed every envelope. Messengers departed into the night.
Preparations
The entire village bustled like never before:
Villagers wove garlands of flowers and crystals for the gates.
Crafters displayed gleaming blades, armor, and jewelry as symbols of Everwood's artistry.
Children practiced dances with Lunaria.
Merchants experimented with exotic dishes.
A grand banquet hall rose at the center plaza stone, crystal, and mana light woven together.
Selena whispered as she oversaw preparations: "This is more than a celebration… this is Everwood's declaration to the world."
Everwood's Hidden Arsenal
When the workers slept, Itsuki descended into the hidden underground complex.
Here, only a select few of his most loyal villagers were permitted entry—his special force. They were no ordinary militia: each one handpicked, trained, and armed to wield Everwood's most dangerous creations.
Rows of tanks gleamed under crystal light, their cannons primed.
Rocket launchers and missiles lay secured, ready to strike down any great beast or army.
Rifles, shotguns, and handguns were distributed to Everwood's growing military.
At the very heart of the chamber stood the most fearsome creation of all
A giant humanoid machine, towering above all, plated in silver-steel. A weapon of war that only Itsuki himself could control.
Itsuki's eyes hardened as he looked up at it. "If the world comes for Everwood… they'll find out too late what they've provoked."
Foreshadowing
Above ground, music and laughter carried into the night as villagers decorated streets. Children sang. Lovers whispered. For them, the banquet meant only joy and pride.
But far away, in the Human Kingdom's throne room, a cloaked messenger knelt.
"The humans of Everwood dare invite Your Majesty."
The king's lips curved into a cold smile. "Then let us see this nation. We will learn whether it is a jewel… or a threat that must be destroyed."