Chapter 8: The First Blood
The eighth dawn erupted over Kael El's domain, the violet-gold sky fracturing with a sharp, electric crack as the peace period shattered. The manor stood like a bastion, its triple-layered walls bristling with archers, while barracks buzzed with spear-wielding warriors and the forge roared under Torv's command. Forty thousand subjects stood ready, their Perks a living engine of war. Kael lounged atop the manor's balcony, a spear in hand, his flirty smirk unshaken as he watched the horizon ripple with distant dust.
Day 8. Game's on. His dark eyes glinted with unwavering confidence, a cool dominance radiating from his relaxed stance. Forty thousand souls armed and fortified in a week—most lords would've faltered. Kael? He thrived, his resilience a steel core. Let 'em come. I don't lose.
A loud ding blared, the system panel flashing with urgency.
"Day 8: Peace Period Ended. Territory Level: 2. Population: 40,006 Subjects. Food Stock: 6 Days Remaining. Resource Yield: +10% (Lv. 2 Bonus). Warning: Hostile Lords Detected."
Kael's smirk widened, a playful edge cutting through the tension. "About time, sweetheart." His calm under pressure held firm—war was just another grind, and he'd mastered plenty. The horizon shimmered, and Veyna's voice rang out from the wall.
"Lord Kael!" she shouted, her Hawk Eye at 5,000% spotting every detail. "Three groups—hundred each, spears and bows. Closing fast!"
Kael vaulted the railing, landing with a casual thud, and strode to the gate. "Veyna, archers up. Zorin, barriers on the walls. Mara, hold the line." His voice was smooth, teasing, yet commanding, and his crew snapped to it—loyalty binding them tight.
He pressed a hand to the Summoning Altar, voice flirty yet firm. "Alright, gorgeous, one more before the party."
The altar flared, and a seventh figure emerged—a lithe woman with golden hair and a staff crackling with static. She knelt, voice sharp. "Lord Kael, I am Elys. Perk: Storm Caller – +50% lightning damage, weather control."
Kael's grin turned wicked. "Elys, huh? A storm's perfect. Hit 'em hard." She rose with a nod, lightning arcing between her fingers, and he felt that protective tug deepen. Another ace.
The system screamed.
"SSS Talent Triggered: 100% Drop Rate. Additional Summon: 1 Subject. EX Talent Triggered: 10,000x Multiplier Applied. Quantity Enhanced: 10,000 Subjects."