You stood in the central square with your group as the morning bustle of the growing city continued around you. The new shops and guilds were already drawing excited crowds — people signing up for work, merchants haggling over stall space, and children peeking into the Adventurers' Guild with wide eyes.
Suddenly, a group of twenty elite royal guards (the same ones who had escorted you to the palace weeks ago) marched forward in perfect formation. They stopped before Lukas and Liora, then knelt as one, spears planted firmly on the ground.
The captain spoke with clear respect:
"Your Majesty King Lukas, Your Highness Queen Liora… from this day forward, allow us to serve you as the Royal Guard and City Guard of this new city. We will protect the people, enforce fair laws, and defend these walls with our lives. We have seen the truth of the Goddess's betrayal. Our loyalty is now to you and this growing realm."
Lukas glanced at you once for silent confirmation. You gave a small nod.
Lukas stepped forward and placed a hand on the captain's shoulder.
"I accept. Rise. From today, you are the official Royal and City Guard of Eldenwood. Protect our people well."
The guards rose with pride, saluting sharply. The crowd cheered loudly — the city now had its own dedicated protectors.
Lukas then turned to the square and raised his voice so everyone could hear.
"Since we are building a true city, we need proper facilities. I will create them now."
He raised both hands. Cosmic shadows swirled around him as he used his unrestricted power.
Snap.
Several new buildings rose smoothly from the ground along the main avenue:
A sturdy Guard House with barracks, armory, and command offices.
A large Training Ground with obstacle courses, sparring rings, and archery ranges.
Additional training fields for mounted combat and group tactics.
And most importantly — a grand School of Sword and Magic, complete with classrooms, practice halls, a library of basic spellbooks and sword techniques, and training dummies that could regenerate.
Lukas turned to Miya with a respectful bow.
"Lady Miya… you are the strongest sword mage we know. I place you in charge of the School of Sword and Magic. Train our people — young and old — in combat and magic so they can protect themselves and grow stronger."
Miya's emerald eyes widened for a moment, then she smiled proudly, tail swishing with honor.
"I accept, King Lukas. I will teach them well."
The crowd erupted in even louder cheers. The four heroes immediately volunteered to assist as instructors. The new citizens began signing up for training and guard duty on the spot.
Lukas looked back at you with a satisfied grin.
"Big brother… the city is truly taking shape. What do we do next?"
Miya stood tall, already mentally planning the school's first lessons. Liora smiled warmly at her husband's leadership.
The city of Eldenwood was no longer just a village — it now had its own guards, training grounds, and a school of sword and magic under Miya's charge