Planning for the village

After their intense morning training and the subsequent meal, Evan, Cara, and Benny decided to catch up. Though they were worn out from the training, their spirits were anything but low. The revelations from Lea's talk had instilled in them a newfound sense of purpose and urgency.

"How did everyone find the training? Evan, you were on fire today!" Benny commented as they met near a secluded grove close to Evan's house.

"I felt... good, better than I usually do," Evan answered cautiously, recalling the strange state he'd entered during his training. He chose not to mention his soul awakening; that felt like something he should keep to himself for now.

Cara nodded, her eyes thoughtful. "Something's changed, hasn't it? Ever since we stumbled upon that clearing with the Ironbark trees, it's like the air itself is different. Energizing, but also daunting."

"Agreed," Benny said. "It's like we've crossed some invisible threshold into a bigger, more complicated world."

They shifted their conversation to the Ironbark trees and their potential impact on the village. Cara was particularly excited. "Think about the possibilities! We could create weapons, shields, even buildings that withstand time!"

"We should bring this up with Old Thomas," Benny suggested. "He'll know the best way to utilize this extraordinary wood."

They headed towards Old Thomas's workshop. The cacophony of hammering and sawing welcomed them even before they stepped inside. Thomas set aside his work as they entered. "Ah, the young explorers! I heard you had quite the morning. How did it go?"

Eager to share their insights, they launched into a detailed recounting of their day and their theories about the Ironbark wood.

Old Thomas listened carefully before saying, "This Ironbark is indeed a treasure but also a grave responsibility. We need to use it wisely; otherwise, it could lead to disputes and greed."

Evan, Cara, Benny, and Old Thomas sat around a wooden table, pouring over maps and lists of resources. Each of them had a role to play, and they were keen on making the best decisions for their community.

"We have an impressive array of resources," Old Thomas began, "Let's start with wood. We have Oak for sturdiness, Pine for quick projects, Cedar for its aromatic properties, Willow for crafts, and now, Ironbark."

Cara jumped in next. "Don't forget the minerals: Copper, Iron, Tin, Zinc, Quartz, and Graphite. All of them can serve us in various ways, whether it's toolmaking or construction."

"Animal bones, too," Benny added. "They're especially good for tools and simple weapons. We shouldn't overlook them."

Evan thoughtfully added, "We should also consider herbs. Medicinally, they're vital, and in terms of cultivation, they might help improve our stamina and overall wellness."

Old Thomas nodded in agreement. "Good point, Evan. Given that we're focusing on cultivating ourselves, herbs could be integral. We should create an inventory of what we have, set priorities for immediate use, and also plan long-term for any shortages."

Cara raised a crucial question. "What about the Ironbark? How do we manage its usage to avoid conflict within the village?"

"That's a matter for the village council," Old Thomas responded. "Such a valuable resource must be dealt with democratically."

The group continued their discussion, each contributing ideas and suggestions. With every word, Evan felt like they were taking a step towards something bigger, something better for their village. However, he also felt a whisper of unease. He had a sense that, while they were planning for their tangible, known resources, other, hidden potentials might exist.

After spending the entire afternoon brainstorming and outlining a resource management plan, the four felt that they had something solid to present. The sun was setting as they made their way to the village leader's house, each of them carrying a sense of urgency and purpose.

Knocking gently on the door, Old Thomas took the lead when the village leader, a stern but fair man named Elden , opened it.

"Ah, Thomas. I see you've brought the young ones," Elden said, his eyes scanning over Cara, Benny, and Evan.

"Good evening, Elden. We've been doing some thinking and planning about the village's resources. We've got some proposals we believe you'll find useful," Old Thomas explained.

"Come in, come in," Elden gestured for them to enter, leading them to a spacious room lined with shelves of books and scrolls, a large table at its center.

The group laid out their plans on the table, detailing the current resources available, potential uses, and long-term sustainability measures. They went through the types of wood, minerals, animal bones, and herbs, suggesting specific applications for each based on the village's needs.

"I must say, this is impressive work," Elden admitted after reviewing the plans. "You've all put a lot of thought into this. The council and I will need to discuss these proposals, but I see a lot of merit in what you've presented."

Evan felt a wave of relief wash over him. Their hard work had not been in vain, and it seemed like the village was one step closer to optimizing their use of natural resources.

Elden continued, "Our next council meeting is in three days. I will present your plans there. Would any of you like to attend to field any questions?"

Old Thomas looked at the younger members of the group, "I think it would be beneficial for all of us to attend. The council could benefit from hearing different perspectives."

Elden nodded. "Very well. We'll see you there. And again, thank you for your contributions. This could be a new beginning for our village."

As they left Elden house, the dusky sky seemed to symbolize both an ending and a new beginning. Evan couldn't help but feel optimistic about the days ahead. They had done their part; now it was up to the village council to take the next steps.

"Wait, Evan," Cara said, stopping him as they prepared to part ways. "We need to discuss the Ironbark trees. Have there been any developments? Any new findings?"

Evan thought for a moment. "I haven't been back there since our initial discovery. We should consider going to inspect the area again. How about the day after tomorrow, after lunch?"

Cara looked serious. "Going alone wouldn't be wise, especially considering the increasing danger from wildlife."

"I agree," Evan nodded. "Perhaps Benny or Old Thomas could accompany us?"

A quick check revealed that both Benny and Old Thomas were unavailable due to prior commitments.

"That leaves us with no other option but to go ourselves," Cara stated. "We're familiar with the area, so as long as we take precautions, we should be able to manage."

"Very well," Evan concurred. "We'll arm ourselves adequately and inform someone of our whereabouts before we depart."

"Agreed," Cara said, her tone as solemn as his. "We meet at the village square, the day after tomorrow, right after lunch."

"Understood," Evan replied. "We have a responsibility to check on those trees, not just for our curiosity but also for the welfare of the village."

Both turned to go to their homes, their steps heavy with the weight of the unknown challenges that may lie ahead but also firm with the resolve to face them. The upcoming visit to the Ironbark trees felt less like an adventure and more like a mission, one that could have implications for their entire community.