The Lordstone pulsed with bright blue light, sending waves of energy rippling across the forest. Trees trembled, monsters howled in the distance, and even Varien shielded his eyes as the ancient artifact recognized its new master.
A system window unfolded before Kael, larger than any he had seen so far:
Territory Established
Name: Argent Dominion
Rank: F
Core Feature: Territory Core (Dormant)
Benefits:
+20% Troop Growth Speed
+10% Resource Yield
Unlock: Territory Map
Kael's heart pounded with excitement. It was happening — the beginning of his domain.
The Lordstone shifted shape, condensing into a glowing crystal orb, which floated toward him. He extended a hand, and it rested gently in his palm, still warm with energy.
Item Acquired: Territory Core
Status: Inactive
Activation Requirement: Build your first structure
Kael smirked.
"Then we'll start building."
---
Varien slowly stepped back, his soldiers raising shields defensively. Despite Kael's victory, Varien wasn't foolish enough to attack again.
"You've won the Lordstone," Varien admitted bitterly. "But don't think this is the end. I won't allow you to grow stronger."
Kael shrugged. "You don't have a choice."
The newly evolved Fenrir growled, its presence alone forcing Varien to retreat. The rival lord disappeared into the forest with what remained of his troops.
Kael's army gathered around him — Fenrir, Wyvern, Wraithlance Champion — each radiating terrifying power.
"We're just getting started," Kael said softly.
---
They returned to the clearing where the Lordstone had originally stood. The territory map unfolded in the air:
Argent Dominion Map:
Central Node: Lordstone
Forest Zone (Uncleared)
River Zone (Fogged)
Mountain Edge (Fogged)
Unknown Dungeon Signature Detected
Kael tapped the screen.
"First structure: Basic Command Outpost."
The system shook with energy.
Building Constructed: Basic Outpost (Tier 1)
Unlock: Troop Training Grounds
Unlock: Resource Gathering Post
Unlock: Territory Buff Activation
The Territory Core glowed fiercely.
Territory Core Activated
New Territory Buff Granted:
Argent Ward – Level 1
All troops within your territory gain +15% defense
Weak monsters cannot enter the domain
Kael clenched his fist. "Perfect."
For the first time, he felt the weight of rulership — of power growing not from battle alone, but from the land itself.
---
As dusk settled, Kael stood atop the new outpost tower, watching the wind sway through his territory. His troops rested nearby, the Fenrir curled like a massive silver guardian.
The fire drake slept on a rock, scales glowing faintly.
The Wraithlance Champion patrolled silently, vanishing and reappearing like a shadow.
Kael opened the system again.
New Quest:
Expand your territory
Clear the Forest Zone
Strengthen troops for incoming danger
A final note blinked ominously:
Warning:
Monster migration detected.
A beast tide will strike within 48 hours.
Kael smiled, eyes glinting with excitement.
"Good. More evolution fuel."
With his territory born and enemies approaching, Kael stepped firmly into his role:
Lord of the Argent Dominion.
Ruler of the evolving army.
The one who would dominate Arcanterra.