chapter 45: Nation

Ryo stood in the heart of his developing nation, surveying the massive construction efforts underway. The dwarves had proven themselves to be master craftsmen, their expertise evident in every stone placed and every beam erected. The castle walls were nearing completion, their towering presence a testament to the strength and security of his growing domain. The roads were also being paved, each one meticulously designed to ensure efficient travel throughout the city.

Looking around, Ryo noticed the dwarves working tirelessly, their hammers ringing against stone and metal. With admiration in his eyes, he approached one of the lead dwarven architects, a stocky, bearded man named Grundar Ironfist. Grundar, upon seeing Ryo, wiped the sweat from his brow and gave a hearty chuckle.

"Ah, Lord Ryo! Ye've got a fine eye for detail, lad. That layout ye gave us? Never seen anything like it. Every street, every building placement—it all fits together like a dwarven puzzle!" Grundar said, pride swelling in his voice.

Ryo smiled. "I'm glad the layout is working as intended. Have the inns, cafes, bathhouses, and housing districts been planned as well?"

Grundar nodded eagerly. "Aye, we've started laying the foundations. Ye asked for wide streets in the market district, so we made sure to give space for carts and stalls. The inns are going up near the main plaza, just like ye wanted. Bathhouses, too! But the real masterpiece is the residential district—ye wanted homes to be comfortable, not just functional. We're using the best materials, giving every house a bit of charm. Even added some extra reinforcement for long-lasting sturdiness."

"Excellent," Ryo replied, pleased with their efficiency. "We're building more than just a fortress; this is a place where people will live, trade, and prosper. A thriving city needs more than just defenses—it needs a soul."

The gathered dwarves nodded in agreement. One of them, a younger craftsman, chimed in, "Never thought we'd be workin' on a whole kingdom from scratch! It's a grand challenge, but we're eager to see it through."

Ryo crossed his arms thoughtfully. "What about the water system? We need clean water flowing throughout the city. Have the aqueducts and drainage systems been mapped out?"

Grundar grinned. "Aye, and we've made some improvements on yer design. Instead of just one main aqueduct, we'll have three channels supplying different districts. That way, if one gets blocked, the others will keep water flowing."

"Smart thinking," Ryo praised. "I trust your judgment. If you find any weak points in the plan, adapt as needed."

Just as they were discussing further improvements, a voice called out, "Lord Ryo!" A guard approached hastily, his armor clanking as he bowed slightly. "A messenger from the Demon Kingdom has arrived. The Demon Lord himself wishes to meet with you."

Ryo raised an eyebrow. "The Demon Lord? That's unexpected. I wasn't aware he planned to visit."

The guard nodded. "He arrived with a small escort. He insists on speaking with you personally."

A hush fell over the gathered dwarves. The mention of the Demon Lord stirred unease—his reputation was formidable, and many feared the unknown intentions of the demon race. But Ryo, unshaken, simply exhaled.

"Very well," he said. "Lead the way."

The dwarves exchanged glances as Ryo followed the guard. Grundar called after him, "Watch yerself, lad! Never trust a demon too quickly!"

With a small chuckle, Ryo waved back before making his way toward the meeting area. As he approached, he saw a group of demons standing near the castle gates. At the center of them stood a tall figure clad in dark regal attire, exuding an aura of dominance. His piercing crimson eyes met Ryo's gaze, and a smirk formed on his lips.

"So, you are Lord Ryo," the Demon Lord said in a deep, commanding voice. "I have heard much about you."

Ryo stopped a few paces away, standing firm. "And you must be the Demon Lord. It's rare to receive such an esteemed guest unannounced. To what do I owe this visit?"

The Demon Lord chuckled. "Straight to the point. I like that. There are matters we must discuss—concerning the balance of power, alliances, and the future of our respective nations."

Ryo's expression remained calm, but his mind raced with possibilities. "Then let's not waste time. Come, we can speak in private."

As he led the Demon Lord inside, Ryo couldn't shake the feeling that this meeting would change everything. Though this was their second meeting, having first crossed paths at the academy, this encounter felt far more significant. The weight of diplomacy, power, and destiny loomed over them, and Ryo knew that whatever was discussed today could alter the course of history.