Shin asks Mina to wake everyone up and tell them to gather at the center of the city.
Slowly, the people and beastmen arrive still tired, weak, but curious. Mina guides them through the ruined streets until they all stand together in the heart of what was once their city.
Shin steps forward.
Shin:
"Today… we begin the reconstruction."
For a moment, there is silence. Then quiet murmurs spread through the crowd disbelief slowly turning into hope. Some smile. Others clench their fists, trying not to cry.
Shin:
"I need five strong people to work directly with me."
Without hesitation, five step forward.
Shin:
"Tell me your names."
A tall lion-man with a powerful build speaks first.
Luke:
"My name is Luke."
A strong cat-man with sharp eyes follows.
Keiji:
"Keiji."
A human man with rough, calloused hands bows slightly.
Bertrand:
"Bertrand. A farmer from the Laos Continent."
Next, a dragon-man with a determined expression steps up.
Musashi:
"Musashi."
Finally, a calm man with an analytical gaze speaks.
Sato:
"Sato. I come from the Rosenthal Kingdom. I specialize in architecture and structural planning."
Shin nods, satisfied.
Shin:
"Good. The five of you will work directly with me."
He turns to the remaining fifteen.
Shin:
"You will head north. From the sea to this place, we will create a lake. I've already prepared provisions for you."
The group looks shocked.
Villagers:
"A lake…?"
"That would change everything…"
Shin raises his hand.
Shin:
"Reinzahn will protect you."
As if summoned, a massive shadow descends from the sky. Reinzahn lands behind them. Fear flashes across their faces then relief.
Reinzahn:
"I will ensure their safety."
The group begins moving north. With powerful wingbeats, Reinzahn takes to the sky and follows them.
Only Shin and the five remain.
Shin exhales slowly.
Shin:
"The plan is simple.
First, we build the town hall.
Then we plant wheat and fruit.
After that come the houses and factories."
His gaze sharpens.
Shin:
"But before anything else, we need wood."
Keiji steps forward immediately.
Keiji:
"I'll go."
Bertrand:
"I'll join you."
Musashi:
"Count me in."
Shin gestures west.
Shin:
"Go together. Be careful."
The three head off.
Shin turns to Sato.
Shin:
"Measure the land. The town hall will stand here."
Sato kneels down, takes out simple tools, and begins calculating distances and angles.
Shin sits on a flat stone and takes out paper. He starts writing.
To Annie,
Please send me any of the 100 soldiers who wish to retire from service voluntarily.
I also need wheat seeds, tools, and construction materials.
Your Shin
He folds the letter, places it into an envelope, and attaches it to a pigeon's leg. With a gentle push, it takes flight and disappears into the sky.
Sato looks up briefly.
Sato:
"Shin… what will this city be called?"
Shin looks over the ruins, the people, the fragile but real hope in their eyes.
Shin:
"Libralaos."
Sato smiles faintly.
Sato:
"A good name."
Shin stands up.
The rebuilding has begun.
Who is Annie?
How long will it takes to rebuild?