Chapter 5: The First Hunt
The fifth dawn crept over the horizon, a soft glow of violet and amber washing over Kael El's thriving domain. The manor loomed at the heart of a bustling settlement—stone walls now ringed the perimeter, granaries brimmed with early harvests, and the clang of Lira's forge echoed through the air. Twenty thousand subjects moved like a living tide, their Perks weaving a tapestry of progress. Kael stood atop the manor's second-floor balcony, arms crossed, a flirty smirk tugging at his lips as he surveyed his work.
Day 5, and this place is mine in all but name. His dark eyes gleamed with unwavering confidence, a cool dominance radiating from his relaxed stance. Twenty thousand souls under his command—most lords would've buckled under the strain. Kael? He leaned into it, his resilience a quiet fire. They're not just numbers. They're my people.
A sharp ding cut through the morning hum, the system panel flaring up.
"Day 5 of 7-Day Peace Period. Territory Level: 2. Population: 20,003 Subjects. Food Stock: 5 Days Remaining. Resource Yield: +10% (Lv. 2 Bonus)."
Kael's smirk didn't falter. Five days left on the rations. Time to hunt. His calm under pressure held firm—panic was for fools, and he'd never been one. The peace period still locked rival territories, but the wilds beyond were fair game. He'd stretch his food, arm his warriors, and keep pushing.
Lira climbed the steps, her crimson hair tied back, a bundle of spears slung over her shoulder. "Lord Kael, we've got two hundred spears, a hundred shields. Torv's smelting more ore now." Her voice carried that fierce edge he liked, her flames still burning bright.
Kael stepped down, taking a spear with a playful grin. "Lira, you're outdoing yourself. Take a dozen warriors—hunt some game. We're not starving on my watch." He twirled the spear, then handed it back with a wink. She nodded, a spark of pride in her eyes, and turned to gather her team. She's a damn force.
He strode to the Summoning Altar, its Mana Crystal glowing brighter with each use. Eight summons left today. Let's see what's next. He pressed a hand to it, voice smooth and teasing. "C'mon, gorgeous, don't hold out on me."
The altar pulsed, and a fourth figure emerged—a wiry woman with sharp features and a bow slung across her back. She knelt, voice crisp. "Lord Kael, I am Veyna. Perk: Hawk Eye – +50% accuracy, enhanced tracking."