The next day dawned bright and warm, an encouraging sign for the people of Riventhorn. Alaric rose early, filled with a sense of urgency. They had made progress in welcoming new families, but now they had to prepare for the threat that still loomed out there.


    As the villagers gathered in the training area, Alaric addressed them with passion. “Today, we will focus on strengthening our skills. We don’t just need to defend our village; we need to become a force that can stand against the mercenaries if they come again.”


    Brogan stepped forward, brandishing a wooden sword. “Let’s start with combat training. We’ll divide into groups to practice different techniques. Remember, it’s not just about individual strength but working together in teamwork.”


    The villagers formed small circles, some sparring while others practiced formations. Alaric moved between the groups, giving advice and encouragement. The sound of wooden weapons clashing filled the air, mixed with laughter and shouts.


    Mira and Liraeled set up an archery range nearby, teaching both newcomers and experienced archers. “Focus on your breathing,” Mira instructed, as she demonstrated how to draw and release the bowstring. “It takes practice, but you’ll find your aim.”


    As the training continued, Alaric noticed Elara watching from the sidelines. She had been quiet since arriving but was eager to join in. He approached her and smiled. “Would you like to give it a try?”


    Elara hesitated but then nodded. Alaric led her to the archery range, where Mira welcomed her warmly. With patient guidance, Elara picked up a bow, her face lighting up as she shot her first arrow, landing just near the target.


    “I did it!” she exclaimed, her smile contagious.


    “Excellent!” Alaric cheered, feeling proud of her progress. This little victory was a reminder of the hope they were building in Riventhorn.


    As midday approached, they took a break to hydrate and catch their breaths. Alaric called everyone together again. “Now that we’ve spent time on combat and archery, let’s focus on our strategies for potential defense. We need to be intelligent about our approach.”If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    Liraeled stood up to address the group. “We should set up lookout points around the village. If we see any signs of the mercenaries, we need to be ready to react quickly. Let’s divide into teams to scout the surrounding areas.”


    The villagers quickly formed groups, each taking different sections of the forest and hills around Riventhorn. Alaric felt a sense of pride swell within him as he watched everyone work together, determined to protect their new home.


    While they were out scouting, Alaric led a small team through the nearby woods. They moved quietly, listening for anything unusual. As they ventured deeper, he spotted something that made his heart race: a campfire flickering in the distance.


    “Stay low,” he whispered to his team, signaling them to crouch down. They crept closer, careful not to be seen. Alaric’s eyes widened as he recognized the figures gathered around the fire—they were mercenaries.


    “We need to get back and warn everyone,” Alaric murmured. He motioned for his team to retreat quietly, backtracking through the underbrush.


    Once they reached the village, Alaric gathered the villagers urgently. “We’ve spotted mercenaries nearby. They seem to be camping out in the woods not far from here.” Gasps of concern spread through the crowd.


    “What do we do?” Brogan asked, a frown etched on his forehead.


    “We need to prepare our defenses immediately,” Alaric replied. “We can’t let them catch us off guard. Everyone, arm yourselves and take your positions. We’ll set up watch points and get ready for anything.”


    The villagers sprang into action, fueled by fear but also a fierce determination. They worked together to set up barricades and defenses around the perimeter of Riventhorn while keeping watch for signs of the enemy.


    As dusk fell, the tension thickened in the air. The once-peaceful village was now on high alert. Alaric gathered everyone for one last meeting before night fell.


    “Stay close to each other and remember your training,” he urged. “If they come, we need to be ready. We fight together, and we protect our home.”


    As darkness enveloped the village, Alaric took his place at one of the lookout posts with Mira, scanning the shadows for movement. The night felt heavy with uncertainty, but he had faith in his people.


    Hours passed, and the silence became almost deafening. Just as Alaric began to doubt, a sound broke through the stillness: the distant sound of footfalls.


    “They’re coming!” he hissed, adrenaline coursing through him.


    He turned to Mira. “Stay alert and gather the others. We must be ready to face them!”


    Alaric’s heart raced. The storm they had feared was finally upon them, and now was the time for courage.


    He steeled himself for the fight ahead, knowing that this battle would determine the fate of Riventhorn.