After returning, the four immediately threw themselves into preparations.
Three days later...
The entire atmosphere on Narukami Island was filled with celebration.
Everyone was busy, their faces glowing with joy.
Today was the most important festival in their history—
The Founding Ceremony!
The moment the news had spread, people began preparing two days in advance.
Everyone took the time to decorate their homes with care, smiles of happiness lighting up their faces.
They all wore brand-new clothes.
It wasn't just about founding a nation—it was a symbol of the war's end and the arrival of peace and prosperity.
During the Archon War, every ordinary citizen had lived in fear, terrified of getting caught in the chaos.
"Kitsune Saiguu, try this dress on! I picked it especially for you—it's perfect!"
Chiyo held out a pristine white dress, her face brimming with excitement.
"It's too white… It'll get dirty so easily."
"Oh, come on, that doesn't matter. Just try it! I bet it'll look amazing!"
Chiyo grabbed Kitsune Saiguu and dragged her inside.
"Hey, I can change on my own—get out."
"What's the big deal? It's not like I haven't seen you before."
"No way, out!" Kitsune Saiguu pushed Chiyo back out the door.
"Such a prude…" Chiyo muttered, waiting outside for her to come out.
At that moment, Zebul and Baal arrived in their new outfits.
As soon as Chiyo saw them, her eyes went wide in shock.
"Wow…"
"You two look stunning!"
"R-Really? I feel a little weird…"
Zebul's cheeks flushed—this was her first time wearing a skirt.
"Not weird at all. You look beautiful," Baal said, continuing to praise her.
They had all picked outfits for each other this time, and Baal had chosen Zebul's. The result elevated her entire aura.
"Seriously, who would've thought the General could look so feminine?"
Chiyo leapt forward and hugged Zebul tightly.
"Come on, Chiyo, let go of me!"
"Nope~ I want hugs~" Chiyo clung to her with a grin.
Creak—
Just then, the door opened and Kitsune Saiguu stepped out in the white dress.
"So pretty! I've got great taste!" Chiyo cheered and pounced on her next.
"I picked one out for Sasayuri too," Baal said, pulling out a freshly cleaned outfit. "But I don't know when he's bringing that friend of his."
"He should be back soon. Don't worry—there's still time. Let's look around the city first."
Maybe it was because of her oni blood, but Chiyo was always bursting with energy—radiant like a little sun. Her lively spirit and striking beauty made her impossible to dislike.
"Sounds good."
The four walked out of the Tenshukaku together and entered the bustling city.
Colorful streamers hung between rooftops, and paper charms floated down from the sky, catching the sunlight and shimmering in a rainbow of hues. It was like a rainbow spinning slowly above their heads, mesmerizing everyone who looked up.
People danced through the streets with firecrackers in hand, laughter echoing as the loud pops rang out.
Children played and chased one another, everyone in bright, festive clothes. The air was thick with joy.
After walking around for a while, they figured it was about time to return to the Tenshukaku and begin the ceremony.
...
"Something's wrong! Something's very wrong!!"
Just as the four of them arrived at the base of the Tenshukaku, before they could ascend the steps, a man came stumbling toward them, practically crawling in panic.
His expression was frantic, eyes wide with terror as if he'd seen a nightmare. His panic stood in stark contrast to the festive atmosphere.
Naturally, he drew everyone's attention.
"General! General! It's terrible!"
The moment he spotted Zebul and the others, he rushed forward like he'd just found a lifeline.
"The demon... the demon..."
He gasped for air, pointing shakily in the direction he'd come from, his words stuck in his throat.
"Slow down. Take a breath. What happened?" Zebul frowned slightly, trying to steady him.
"God… God Orobashi is attacking Yashiori Island!!!"
His shout stunned the entire crowd into silence.
The joy vanished in an instant.
The atmosphere went deathly quiet—you could hear a pin drop.
Zebul and the others froze, eyes wide.
"Explain yourself! What happened!?"
Zebul completely dropped her usual composure, grabbing the man by both shoulders and shouting.
The overwhelming pressure made the man go pale. His lips trembled, and his knees nearly gave out.
"Zebul, calm down. Let me handle this."
Baal quickly stepped in, sensing things were escalating.
"Look at me. It's alright. Breathe—slowly. You're safe now."
Baal kept her voice steady, working to calm the man down.