Chapter 18: The Birth of Neonexus

Kaito stood atop the grand balcony of his newly established nation, Neonexus. The fresh morning breeze carried the scent of dew and stone as he surveyed the land before him. It had been two days since he had given Nova instructions to reconstruct the kingdom according to the world's architectural norms, and now, his vision had come to life.

The town was a harmonious blend of medieval aesthetics and hidden technological advancements. The houses, built with smooth white stone, gave off an ethereal glow under the sun. Each building followed a structured layout, with wide streets made of carefully arranged cobblestones, ensuring a natural fit for the world's era. At first glance, the town appeared like any other medieval city, but underneath, it was a different story.

The Underground Network

All modern infrastructure had been seamlessly integrated beneath the town. Kaito had ensured that his automated factories for robots, drones, and AI-based operations were relocated underground. The network of tunnels beneath the kingdom served as a hidden technological marvel, housing advanced manufacturing plants, an energy core, and AI-operated command centers. The power grid was self-sustaining, pulling energy from multiple sources, including mana-infused generators and geothermal systems.

The roads above, though made of traditional cobblestone, were embedded with subtle enhancements—tiny conduits lined beneath the surface, allowing the energy network to function invisibly. The town's waste management, water purification, and air filtration were all managed by Nova's hidden systems, ensuring a self-sustaining and healthy environment.

The Castle of Neonexus

At the heart of the kingdom stood Kaito's castle, a breathtaking structure that retained the grandeur of a traditional fortress while exuding an aura of futuristic design. The outer walls were fortified with enchanted stone, reinforced with energy barriers that made it nearly indestructible. The main hall was vast, lined with tall glass-like windows that allowed natural light to cascade in, but they were no ordinary glass—they were imbued with a special type of adaptive technology that could transform into screens for surveillance or battle displays.

The throne room remained majestic, its intricate golden engravings depicting the rise of a new nation. At the far end, Kaito's throne sat elevated, constructed with dark alloy and embedded with glowing blue lines that pulsed with hidden power. It was both regal and intimidating. Above the throne, a holographic crest of Neonexus flickered, showcasing a symbol that Kaito had personally designed—an emblem of unity between magic and technology.

Nova had ensured that the castle retained its medieval charm while incorporating hidden technological advancements. Defense mechanisms were in place, with AI-operated sentries hidden within the structure, capable of activating instantly if threats were detected.

As he admired his work, Kaito was brought back to reality by Nova's voice.

"Master, reports indicate that the neighboring nations have sent their representatives. Among them are princes, nobles, and officials from all eleven nations, including Eldoria."

Kaito narrowed his eyes. "I assume some of them have hostile intentions?"

Nova's holographic form materialized beside him, its synthetic voice calm yet informative. "That is highly probable. Some of these representatives may attempt to assess your strength, and if they deem you a threat, they may act against you. However, I have already implemented surveillance on them."

Kaito crossed his arms. "Good. Have you identified any immediate threats?"

"Not yet, but we are monitoring all movements. The representatives are currently at the border, which, given the size of our nation, will take them many days or even months to reach the capital."

Kaito smirked. "Then let's give them a warm welcome. Send automated carriages to pick them up. Keep an eye on their conversations and behavior along the way."

Nova bowed slightly. "Understood, Master. Deploying automated carriages now."

A series of carriages, appearing no different from traditional ones but in reality self-operated by Nova's AI, were dispatched toward the distant borders. Inside, advanced surveillance was hidden within the structures, allowing Kaito to monitor the representatives without raising suspicion.

The Arrival of the Envoys

As the foreign representatives made their way toward Neonexus, Kaito turned his attention to Althea, Amelia, and Lilia, who were observing the preparations.

Althea, with her golden hair shimmering under the sunlight, stepped forward. "Are you sure about letting them into Neonexus so easily? If some of them are planning an attack, wouldn't it be safer to keep them at bay?"

Kaito nodded. "True, but this meeting is necessary. If we don't establish diplomatic relations now, it'll only create more problems later. Besides, I want to see who among them is an actual threat."

Lilia, the most tactical of the three, smiled. "Then we should be ready for anything. I'll coordinate with Nova to place hidden safeguards in the castle."

Amelia, always the calm observer, adjusted her glasses. "And what if they refuse to acknowledge Neonexus as a legitimate nation?"

Kaito smirked. "Then I'll make them acknowledge it."

Meanwhile, at the borders, the automated carriages arrived, sleek yet traditional in design. A voice note, recorded by Nova, played for the envoys:

"These carriages will take you to the meeting hall in Neonexus. Please board them in an orderly manner."

The envoys hesitated for a moment, glancing at one another with wary expressions. However, seeing no alternative, they entered the carriages one by one. Inside, the luxurious interiors mimicked those of high-ranking noble transports, ensuring comfort while subtly monitoring every conversation.

As the carriages began their journey toward the capital, Kaito watched through a hidden display in his throne room. "Let's see what they really think about my nation."

Nova's voice echoed. "Monitoring has begun. We will have detailed reports by the time they arrive."

Kaito leaned back in his throne, a smirk forming on his lips. "Good. Let the games begin."