Chapter 18: A Clash of Realms

In the quietude of his office, Leo delved into the intricacies of expanding his law book. The recent encounter with Lyra, the dragon princess, left an indelible mark on his thoughts. An unequivocal realization dawned upon him — the need for a formidable army to safeguard Eldoria.

Driven by this newfound purpose, Leo pondered the creation of innovative weapons to elevate the power of Eldoria's forces. A question arose in his mind — did they possess sufficient steel for such endeavors? Turning to Arwan for answers, Leo embarked on a journey to the weapons factory alongside the city general.

Within the confines of the factory, Leo's god-like skills were put to use as he crafted a marvel that Amedias had never witnessed — the cannon. A device alien to the inhabitants, Leo marveled at the intricacies of its creation. Magicians infused the cannonball with magical energy, enhancing its potency beyond comprehension.

As the cannon stood tall, Leo, with a sense of purpose, took it outside for a test. The thunderous roar echoed through the Black Forest as the cannon unleashed its power. The earth trembled beneath its might, and the trees quivered in response.

Leo summoned the representatives for a consequential meeting. Seated in his grand office, he laid out his vision — the establishment of a kingdom within the heart of the Black Forest. A realm where the people of Eldoria could thrive and flourish under a unified banner.

The representatives, initially taken aback, gradually warmed to the idea. Discussions ensued, voices rose and fell, and ultimately, unanimous agreement was reached. The decision was made to not only expand Eldoria but to create another city, with this new city serving as the capital of the burgeoning kingdom.

Leo, ever the visionary, suggested a name for this nascent kingdom — Eldoria. The name carried a weight of ancient wisdom and magic, symbolizing Leo's profound connection to mystical forces. The representatives concurred, and with the naming, festivities erupted across Eldoria, marking the birth of a new era.

In adherence to tradition, Leo, with Elena by his side, assumed the mantle of the first king of Eldoria. The castle, a testament to Leo's unparalleled abilities, manifested in mere days. Its grandeur surpassed any construction undertaken by ordinary means, boasting offices, an audience hall, rooms, bathhouses, a full kitchen, and even the relocated elves' village library.

As Leo looked upon the vast expanse of Eldoria from his castle, a divine presence observed from above. The god acknowledged Leo's destiny, reinforcing the trust placed in him by the inhabitants of Amedias.

In the calm of his office, Leo received an urgent visit from Arwan. An exploring team had spotted a human army, Holy Knights and wizards, camped within 3 to 6 kilometers of Eldoria. The realization struck Leo — were these the same forces that had attacked the dragon kingdom?

Swiftly, Leo commanded his army to close the main gate and stand guard. Using his skill to decipher the situation, he disappeared into the Black Forest. Leo observed the human army — approximately 100 Holy Knights, accompanied by wizards and generals, resting in the heart of the forest.

With meticulous attention to detail, Leo discerned that these knights might be from the Lion Kingdom or the other two realms nearby. Employing his skill to reappear unnoticed, Leo witnessed the army's prowess — powerful magic items, highly skilled soldiers, and a commanding general.

Taking refuge in the tree canopy, Leo observed as leaves began to fall. The knight general, astutely perceptive, attacked the space where Leo concealed himself. Leo agilely dodged the assault, astonished by the general's unparalleled skill. Swiftly removing his concealment skill, Leo descended from the tree.

The entire army, recognizing an unfamiliar presence, circled around Leo. The general demanded an explanation, perplexed by the absence of any mana in Leo's body. With unwavering honesty, Leo declared himself as the King of Eldoria. Laughter erupted from the army, dismissing Leo's claims as insanity.

The general, incensed and convinced that Leo was deceiving them, attacked. However, with a mere flick of his finger, Leo halted the assault, shattering her sword like sand. The army, bewildered by the display of power, attacked as one, only to be effortlessly subdued by Leo.

After healing their injuries, Leo incarcerated the entire army, reserving a private audience with the human general in his office. As Eldoria stood at the threshold of a new chapter, Leo's leadership faced an unexpected challenge that would test both his diplomatic finesse and his kingdom's resilience.