Chapter 2: The First Step

Leon stood before his Wooden Lord's Castle, arms crossed as he took in the sight. Calling it a "castle" was generous—a wooden fort with weak walls, a rickety watchtower, and a barely standing main hall. If a strong gust of wind blew through, he wouldn't be surprised if the whole thing collapsed.

He exhaled sharply. "Well… this is a joke."

The doors creaked open, and inside, a small group of people stood waiting—his five basic guards and ten peasant settlers. Their eyes held a mix of respect and uncertainty.

One man stepped forward. He was middle-aged, clad in dented armor, with a worn sword strapped to his hip. His posture was straight, disciplined.

"Lord Leon," he said, bowing. "I am Garrick, your appointed guard captain. We have been awaiting your command."

Ding!

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[You have officially assumed command as Lord of this territory.]

[Your first objective: Strengthen your domain.]

[Basic Tasks Unlocked:]

Gather Resources: Your land is barren. Establish a logging camp, quarry, and farms.

Recruit More People: Ten peasants won't cut it. Expand your influence to attract settlers.

Secure Your Borders: Weak defenses invite disaster. Strengthen your army or build walls.

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Leon's gaze flicked to the small settlement behind the castle. It was pathetic—a few wooden huts, a single well, and a storage shack that looked like it had seen better days. No crops, no blacksmith, no defenses.

His stomach twisted, but not from disappointment—from determination.

If this was his starting point, then fine. He'd just have to build an empire from nothing.

"Garrick," Leon said, his voice steady. "Tell me about the surrounding land."

The captain straightened. "To the east, there's a dense Forest of Whispers—rich in lumber, but rumored to be home to wolves. To the west, open plains—ideal for farming, but exposed to roaming bandits. To the north, a river, useful for fishing and fresh water. And to the south…" His brow furrowed. "Uncharted lands. Dangerous."

Leon absorbed the information. His choices would shape everything.

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Choosing a Starting Move

1. Gathering Wood (Logging Camp): Essential for buildings.

2. Securing Food (Farming/Fishing): Without food, his people wouldn't last.

3. Strengthening Defense (Training Guards/Walls): If enemies attacked now, they'd be wiped out.

Leon wasn't stupid—he could sit on a throne all day, but if his people starved, his reign would be short-lived.

"We start with food," he decided.

Garrick nodded. "A wise choice, my lord. We can either fish from the northern river for immediate results or farm the western plains for long-term stability."

Leon didn't hesitate. "Fishing. It's faster."

Ding!

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[New Task: Establish a Fishing Operation!]

Send workers to the river (Progress: 0%)

Craft fishing tools (Progress: 0%)

Secure the area (Danger level: Low)

[Rewards: Increased food supply, chance to discover rare resources.]

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Leon turned to the settlers. "Five of you—start crafting fishing tools. Nets, spears, whatever you can make. The rest, come with me."

The peasants scrambled into action, and within an hour, crude fishing rods and woven nets were ready.

Leon led the group north, following the sound of rushing water.

The River's Secret

When they arrived, Leon's eyes widened.

The river was wide, its waters crystal clear, teeming with life. Schools of fish darted beneath the surface. But something else caught his eye—strange glimmers beneath the water.

One of the peasants swallowed nervously. "My lord… is that normal?"

Leon felt his Sovereign Extraction ability reacting.

Ding!

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[Extraction Available!]

Target: Mysterious Riverbed (Uncommon Resource)

Possible Rewards: ???

[Would you like to extract?] (Y/N)

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Leon's heart pounded. Was there treasure here?

His fingers twitched. "Extract."

A pulse of energy rippled through the river. The water shimmered, then—

Ding!

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[Extraction Successful!]

You have obtained 5x River Spirit Crystals (Rare)!

[Item: River Spirit Crystal]

Effect: Enhances water-related abilities and increases fishing efficiency.

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Leon grinned. "Looks like we just struck gold."

Garrick stared, eyes wide. "My lord… those are treasures."

Leon's mind was already racing. With these, his food supply would grow even faster. Maybe even more than that.

But before he could think further—

Rustle.

The bushes behind them shook. A low growl rumbled from the trees.

Garrick tensed, hand on his sword. "We are not alone."

Leon's grip tightened on his spear. His first battle was about to begin.

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