Chapter 42: Foundations of the Future
The scent of moss and wet stone filled the air as Ashen stood atop the moss-covered ruins of an ancient stone temple, now repurposed as the new capital of the Swamp Kingdom. The rising sun reflected against the still waters of the surrounding marsh, casting golden rays upon newly erected towers and magical wards glowing faintly like stars at dawn.
Ashen, adorned in his [Elemental Crown] and [Robes of the Elemental Sage], overlooked the bustling growth of his kingdom. Structures were forming—watchtowers, barracks, housing for settlers, and mana farms powered by elemental crystals. His cape, the Swamp Guardian's Mantle, billowed slightly as he folded his arms across his chest.
[System Notification: Your Swamp Kingdom territory has reached Tier 2. New options unlocked: Trade Post, Guild Embassy, Monster Ranch, and Alchemical Institute.]
Ashen smiled. "So it begins."
