Chapter 13: The First Ascension
The thirteenth dawn erupted over Kael El's domain, a fierce violet-gold sky bathing his three territories in a victorious glow. The manor anchored the central settlement, now linked by fortified paths to the western camp and eastern hill, with the northern stronghold's stone keep rising under Mara's hands. Eighty thousand subjects thrummed—warriors patrolling, mages weaving, and crafters stockpiling. Kael stood atop the northern keep's ramparts, the Stormforged Blade in hand, Stormhide Armor crackling faintly, his flirty smirk as unshaken as ever.
Day 13. Three in the bag, time to level up. His dark eyes gleamed with unwavering confidence, a cool dominance radiating from his relaxed stance. Eighty thousand souls, three territories, and a dead lord's talent—most would've rested. Kael? He thrived, his resilience a blazing core. Lv. 3's mine. Then we hunt bigger prey.
A sharp ding sounded, the system panel flaring up.
"Day 13: Post-Peace Period. Territory Level: 2. Population: 80,011 Subjects. Food Stock: 1 Day Remaining. Resource Yield: +10% (Lv. 2 Bonus). Territory Upgrade Available: 3/3 Territories Conquered, 10,000 Resources Required (Current: 8,927)."
Kael's smirk widened, a playful edge slicing through the morning air. "One day of food? Guess we're eating victory tonight." His calm under pressure held firm—resources were short, but he'd fill the gap. He glanced at Gavrin, who hustled over with his ledger.
"Lord Kael," Gavrin said, "we've got 8,927 resources—wood, stone, ore, vines. North's loot added spears and iron, but we're 1,073 shy."
Kael clapped his shoulder, winking. "Gavrin, you're my vault. Send Veyna's hunters for game—food and hides. I'll hit the quarry." Gavrin nodded, scribbling, and Kael grabbed the Mastercraft Chisel, striding out.
Stone splintered under his swings, the system chiming.
"Resource Gained: 17 Stone (+10% Lv. 2 Bonus). SSS Talent: 100% Drop Rate. Loot: 1 Granite Chunk. EX Talent: 10,000x Multiplier Applied. Quantity Enhanced: 10,000 Granite Chunks."
A mountain of granite crashed down, enough to pave a kingdom. Kael laughed, hauling back 51 Stone. Overkill's my style.
By midday, Veyna's hunters returned with three boars—food for days—and Gavrin tallied the haul. "Lord, we're at 10,078 resources. Plus meat for five days."
Kael grinned, pressing the Summoning Altar. "Upgrade it."