February 25, Year 2 of the New Calendar
More than a month had passed since the Void War ended.
The Flame Capital now had everything to rebuild.
Peace had finally returned, but there were no celebrations, nor any commemoration of the dead.
Everyone was simply too exhausted.
Meanwhile, the Sunfire God issued new instructions, deciding to pursue diplomatic relations with Hallownest.
Although the bugs of the Flame Capital were astonished to learn that another nation equal to-or even stronger than-their own existed in the Wilderness, they knew what they needed to do.
An alliance was necessary. No one could stand alone against the Void.
But this could not be rushed. Preparations beforehand were just as important.
The accompanying ceremonial escort, the composition of the Recorder and scholar teams, clothing, appearance, and proper etiquette all required careful consideration.
The list went on and on.
During this time, Isara and Aemon were practically overwhelmed with work.
But as the only senior leaders still capable of functioning, they could only keep going.
Gron was critically wounded and near death, requiring treatment in isolation. Mortas and his Hunter Clan had fought to the very last moment and had also reached their limits.
And Raily.
The Gear Clan chief had fallen ill from prolonged overwork. The Snail Shaman insisted that she had to rest, though if she absolutely had to get up, he did have a little something...
"No, thank you!"
And so he never finished his sentence...
"Ah..." Lin Jin let out a long sigh. All the elite warriors and capable commanders under him were at the end of their rope.
Yes, winning was never all there was to war.
There was also the price paid, the future potential exhausted, and the difficulties of the present.
Ultimately, this world was reality, not a game.