Chapter 84: Winds of the Backlands

Morning arrived with a strong wind from the backlands, bringing with it the smell of dry earth and the promise of another difficult day. The city, now more prepared and strengthened, woke up to a new phase in its fight for survival. Rodrigo, still thoughtful after the night of confessions, was ready to lead the next steps.

As he walked through the city streets, he observed the frenetic pace of preparations. Men and women worked together, reinforcing the defenses, training new fighters, and organizing the supplies that had been brought by the allies. There was a new energy in the air, a mixture of determination and hope that had previously seemed distant.

Sebastião found him near the central market, where some residents were distributing food to those working on the defenses. "The city has never been so united," said Sebastião, handing Rodrigo a piece of bread. "We are ready for whatever comes."

Rodrigo accepted the bread with a nod, but his gaze was fixed on the horizon. "We need to be ready for more than just an attack," he said, his voice thick with caution. "The enemies we face will not stop so easily. They know we now have allies and reinforcements. They will try to break us from the inside out." Sebastian frowned. "Do you think there could be betrayal?" Rodrigo sighed, taking a small bite of bread. "We cannot rule out that possibility. But more than that, we need to be aware of emotional exhaustion. War is not only about battles with weapons, but also about internal battles. If fear and distrust begin to spread, it could be the end." Rodrigo's words hung in the air, heavy with truth. Sebastian knew the old man was right. The city's strength lay not only in its walls and weapons, but also in the unity and courage of its people. "So, what do we do?" Sebastian asked, seeking guidance. "We continue to reinforce the defenses," Rodrigo replied, "but we also look out for each other. We need to keep morale high and make sure everyone feels part of this fight. If anyone starts to doubt, we need to be there to offer support. And we need to be vigilant, always alert for the slightest sign of weakness or betrayal."

Sebastian nodded, understanding the depth of what was being asked of them. It wasn't just a matter of fighting, but of protecting the spirit of the city.

Throughout the day, Rodrigo and Sebastian split up to oversee different areas of the city. They spoke with local leaders, offered words of encouragement to the fighters, and made sure everyone was aware of the importance of remaining united.

Rodrigo, in particular, made a point of visiting the civilians, those who weren't directly involved in the defense but still had a crucial role to play. He spoke to the mothers who cared for children, the elders who imparted wisdom, and the young people who helped where they could. Every word of encouragement he offered seemed to strengthen the social fabric of the town, making it more resilient.

As the sun began to sink below the horizon, tinting the sky orange and red, Rodrigo allowed himself a moment to survey the town from a nearby hill. The sight of the reinforced walls, the people working together, and the careful preparation brought him a rare moment of peace.

"We are ready," he muttered to himself, feeling the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, but also the satisfaction of knowing that he had done everything in his power to protect this place.

But he also knew that the real test was yet to come. And when the winds of the hinterland blew again, bringing signs of new challenges, the town would be ready to face them with all the strength and courage it had earned.