Diplomacy

The delegation from the Kingdom of Bashda arrived at Eryndor's gates a week after the battle. They were led by a seasoned diplomat named Lord Edric, a man known for his sharp mind and silver tongue. Aria greeted them with a mix of caution and respect, knowing that this meeting could determine the future of her people.

The negotiations took place in the village's newly constructed meeting hall, a simple but sturdy building that symbolized Eryndor's growth. Aria sat at the head of the table, flanked by Garok, Lyria, and Tharn. Lord Edric and his entourage sat across from them, their expressions carefully neutral.

"We come in peace," Lord Edric began, his voice smooth and measured. "The Kingdom of Bashda recognizes the strength and unity of your people. We propose a nonaggression treaty, one that will allow both our kingdoms to coexist peacefully."

Aria nodded, her gaze steady. "We have no desire for conflict. But we also cannot allow our people to be threatened or oppressed. If your kingdom agrees to respect our borders and our sovereignty, we will agree to this treaty."

The negotiations continued for hours, with both sides discussing terms and conditions. Aria's calm demeanor and sharp intellect impressed Lord Edric, while Garok, Lyria, and Tharn provided valuable insights into the needs and concerns of their people.

By the end of the day, an agreement had been reached. The Kingdom of Bashda would recognize Eryndor as an independent kingdom and agree to a nonaggression treaty. In return, Eryndor would not expand its territory into Bashda's lands and would allow safe passage for Bashda's merchants and travelers.

As Lord Edric and his delegation prepared to leave, he turned to Aria with a respectful nod. "You have built something remarkable here, Lady Aria. I look forward to seeing how Eryndor grows."

Aria smiled. "Thank you, Lord Edric. We hope to prove that different races can live together in peace and prosperity."

---

With the treaty signed and Eryndor officially recognized as a kingdom, Aria turned her attention to strengthening her people. She knew that recognition from Bashda was just the beginning—Eryndor needed to be self-sufficient, secure, and united.

She called a meeting with her closest advisors—Garok, Lyria, and Tharn—to discuss their roles and responsibilities.

"Tharn," Aria said, addressing the ogre leader. "Your strength and leadership were instrumental in our victory. I appoint you as Eryndor's Head Military General. You will oversee our defenses and train our soldiers."

Tharn nodded, his expression serious. "I accept, Lady Aria. I will ensure that Eryndor is ready to face any threat."

"Lyria," Aria continued, turning to the nekomimi leader. "Your agility and wisdom have been invaluable. I appoint you as Eryndor's Chief Diplomat and Head of Trade. You will handle relations with other kingdoms and oversee our economic growth."

Lyria bowed her head. "Thank you, Lady Aria. I will do my best to strengthen our alliances and ensure our prosperity."

"Garok," Aria said, finally addressing her loyal second-in-command. "You have been by my side since the beginning. I appoint you as Eryndor's Chief Advisor and Head of Internal Affairs. You will oversee the day-to-day operations of the kingdom and ensure that our people's needs are met."

Garok smiled, his eyes filled with pride. "I am honored, Lady Aria. I will not let you down."

With their roles defined, Aria felt a sense of relief. Eryndor was no longer just a village—it was a kingdom with a clear structure and purpose. But she also knew that their journey was far from over.

---

As Eryndor grew, whispers of its existence began to spread across the Tensura world. Powerful beings, each with their own agendas, took notice of the new kingdom and its enigmatic leader.

**Guy Crimson**, the Lord of Darkness, heard of Aria through his network of spies. Intrigued by the idea of a vampire uniting monsters and humans alike, he decided to keep a close eye on Eryndor. "Aria, is it?" he mused, his crimson eyes gleaming with interest. "Let's see how far you can go."

**Ramiris**, the Queen of the Labyrinth, learned of Aria from the spirits of the forest. The tiny fairy was fascinated by the idea of a kingdom where all races could live together. "Maybe I should pay her a visit," she said, fluttering her wings excitedly. "It's been so long since I've seen something this interesting!"

**Milim Nava**, the Dragon Princess, heard of Aria from a group of adventurers who had passed through Eryndor. The fiery and impulsive demon lord was intrigued by the idea of a vampire who could stand up to humans and build a kingdom. "Aria sounds fun!" Milim declared, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "I wanna meet her!"

---

As Aria stood atop the walls of Eryndor, looking out over her kingdom, she felt a sense of pride and hope. The goblins, nekomimi, and ogres worked together, their laughter and chatter filling the air. The village had grown into a thriving community, with new homes, workshops, and fields stretching out as far as the eye could see.

But Aria also knew that challenges lay ahead. The attention of powerful beings like Guy Crimson, Ramiris, and Milim Nava could bring both opportunities and dangers. And while the Kingdom of Bashda had recognized Eryndor, there were still those who saw monsters as nothing more than pests to be eradicated.

"We've come so far," Aria said softly, her voice carrying on the wind. "But this is just the beginning."

Garok, Lyria, and Tharn stood beside her, their expressions filled with determination. Together, they would face whatever came next, united by their shared vision of a world where all races could live in peace.

And as the sun set over Eryndor, casting its golden light on the bustling kingdom, Aria felt a sense of hope. She had come to this world as a lost soul, but now she had a family, a purpose, and a kingdom worth fighting for.