The next morning, Michael and two knights left for Loratto, the capital of the Draxeler family. With this task solved, Drake turned his attention to the development of his territory.
With the recent annexation of the Pantaleão family region, he decided that a road would be essential to connect his fort to the newly conquered city.
"Sarah, arrange a wide road between Forte do Leme and the city of Forjas. This will facilitate trade and allow faster movement of troops," Drake ordered.
"Yes, sir"
Sarah replied, giving him a massage.
The Kingdom of Dravenfell is a small and often forgotten nation, marked by bloody battles in its past.
Located between the icy mountains to the north and the rival kingdoms to the south, Dravenfell is ruled by a feudal monarchy, where noble houses constantly fight for influence and power.
Despite the bravery and loyalty of its people, the kingdom faces both internal disputes and external invasions, threatening its stability.
The capital, Kastellorn, is a thriving trading point and the only city with a teleportation portal. The current king, Edric V, is severe and strategic, having assumed the throne after his father's death.
Although he faces the distrust of several nobles, he maintains his dominion with a feared army and loyal advisors. The royal lineage descends from arctic wolves, imbuing the rulers with strength, agility and a sharp instinct for combat.
Dravenfell is bathed by the sea of Glacium to the east, and to the south it borders the Kingdom of Valdyr, famous for its vast plains and excellent knights.
To the west, the Kingdom of Eredhal, rich in ancestral magic and dense forests, represents another constant threat.
While Dravenfell is at the weakest level of power among the kingdoms, its neighbors are well structured militarily, economically and territorially.
The Draxeler family, a northern lineage, is famous for its military heritage and its connection to the spirit of a white winter wolf, a symbol of resistance and cunning. However, under the leadership of Viscount Valtor Draxeler, the prestige of the family has fallen.
Valtor is known for his luxurious and indulgent lifestyle, spending fortunes on banquets and pleasures, while neglecting investments in his army. Although the Draxelers still have military power, their strength is in decline.
"Interesting this summary about the forces of the kingdom and its surroundings"
Drake said, intrigued by the situation
"If I want to defeat these neighbors, I will need to strengthen my position. One step at a time..."
Five days later, Sarah entered the office went behind Drakes and began to massage him as usual.
"You're the best Sarah."
Drake satisfied with the subordinate he had
Sarah laughed coquettishly and said
"Sir, the roads are ready, and the citadel will be complete in a week to receive our troops."
"Excellent"
"The armor sets should arrive today, right?"
"Yes, sir, our scouts have already seen the convoy," she confirmed.
Shortly after, Michael entered the room, radiant.
"Brother! I managed to bring what you asked for. Now we have an elite company."
"Good job, Michael. But remember, the equipment can be elite, but we still need to turn our soldiers into elite warriors. For that, I prepared the citadel."
Together, they went to the new citadel, built on a high ground, with walls five meters high and towers of ten meters in each corner.
The citadel had warehouses, accommodations and everything they needed to train their troops.
"It was worth every effort and currency invested here"
Drake said, satisfied.
"With this place, we will train our elite warriors and train knights. This is just the beginning."
Drake left Michael in charge of the citadel, along with two hundred warriors and fifty archers.
"Michael, I want you to select the hundred best men and equip them with elite armor. In two months, we will have our elite company. Can you do it?"
"Yes, brother"
Michael replied with determination.
"I'll try my best!"
"Use our family's basic technique. Even if they are not knights, it will make them stronger. All the big families do this with their warriors. I want to see what they are capable of."
With that, Drake left, confident that his army would soon be a formidable force, while his brother worked tirelessly to transform those men into warriors who would make a difference in the coming battles.