Shadows Over the Horizon: Preparing for Defense
Night fell over Caelora Island — but for Ardyn, there was no rest.
The success of the Island Sovereign Forum elevated Caelora's name across Terra Magna — but it also painted a target on its back.
NOVA's interface glowed in the darkened command room.
> [Warning: Increased Surveillance Detected]
Origin: Unknown Continental Intelligence Agencies
Probability of Hostile Action: 62%
Ardyn narrowed his eyes.
"The era of peaceful development is ending. It's time to build strength."
---
[New Quest: Defense Against External Threats]
Objectives:
1. Establish Island-Wide Surveillance & Early Warning Systems
2. Develop Naval Doctrine & Shipbuilding Program
3. Recruit & Train Island Defense Forces
4. Construct Coastal Defense Infrastructure
Rewards:
Naval Ship Blueprints (Frigate, Corvette, Transport)
Defensive Technology Pack (Radar, Anti-Air, Missile Defense)
Recruitment Pool Expansion (Specialist Soldiers & Commanders)
---
Step 1 — Intelligence & Surveillance
Ardyn summoned Victoria, General Viktor Kaine, and a new face — Dr. Liora Voss, an expert in communications and cyber defense recruited from the system.
"Victoria, begin constructing watchtowers, radar stations, and drone patrol routes around the coastline."
"Dr. Voss, I want an encrypted communication network island-wide. And prepare counter-surveillance protocols."
---
[System Construct Menu: Coastal Defense]
Radar Station — Cost: 100,000 Credits
Coastal Watchtower — Cost: 25,000 Credits
Surveillance Drone Network — Cost: 150,000 Credits
Encrypted Communication Hub — Cost: 200,000 Credits
---
> [Construction Commenced]
Estimated Completion: 10 Days
---
Step 2 — Naval Development
General Kaine spoke, voice steady.
"Your Majesty, Caelora's long-term survival depends on controlling our waters."
Ardyn nodded.
NOVA displayed ship designs.
> Basic Naval Blueprint Package Unlocked
Available Ships:
Aegis-class Frigate — Multipurpose Patrol & Combat Ship
Seafalcon Corvette — Fast Attack & Recon
Harbor-class Transport — Logistics & Civilian Protection
---
Ardyn issued the command.
"Begin constructing the first Aegis-class Frigate. I want a fleet worthy of our dreams."
> [Shipyard Expansion Required]
Cost: 500,000 Credits
Time: 20 Days
Ardyn allocated resources instantly — using quest rewards and tax revenue from rising tourism.
---
Step 3 — Military Recruitment
He opened the Recruitment Menu.
> [Island Defense Force Recruitment Unlocked]
Available Units:
Coastal Infantry Regiment
Island Ranger Special Forces
Naval Crew Cadets
Commanders Available:
General Viktor Kaine — Military Strategy Expert
Commander Selene Arkwright — Naval Warfare Specialist (Summoned Reward)
---
Ardyn summoned Commander Selene — a striking woman in her 30s with silver hair, sharp eyes, and a cold military demeanor.
"I serve the future of Caelora," she saluted.
Ardyn smiled faintly. "Good. You will lead our navy."
---
Step 4 — Defensive Infrastructure
Victoria reported.
"Your Majesty, defensive walls, anti-air batteries, and underground shelters are being prepared across the key settlements."
NOVA displayed island maps marked with defense zones.
Caelora was no longer just developing.
It was becoming fortified.
---
> [Quest Progress: 50% Complete]
---
But far beyond the seas...
In the Great Continental Union — a powerful mainland alliance — military analysts debated.
"Caelora is advancing faster than any projection," one said.
Another scoffed, "They're just an island."
The general in the room frowned.
"Underestimate them... and they will control the Archipelago Seas within a decade."
---
Back on Caelora Island...
Ardyn stood on the cliffside overlooking his island.
Winds blew.
Storms gathered on distant horizons.
But his eyes burned with clarity.
"Let them come," he whispered.
"This is my kingdom. My home. My destiny."
---
> [Next Quest Unlocked: Diplomatic Expansion & International Recognition]
[Optional Quest Available: Explore and Claim Nearby Uninhabited Islands]