Chapter 24: Veldora's Proclamation: A World in Turmoil
The next day, Veldora set off with a sense of determined authority. As a legendary Storm Dragon, he knew that his presence alone would send shockwaves throughout the world, but this declaration would make it official: the Jura Forest was under his dominion.
Veldora wasn't just a mythical being hiding away—he had to make it known, loud and clear, that the world should not trespass into his territory unless he allowed it. His declaration was bold, brash, and absolute, and he was prepared to back it up with his might.
Veldora's day began with a powerful magical transmission to all the major kingdoms and factions of the Cardinal World. His voice boomed across the lands, his words carrying with the weight of his immense power. It was a simple message but one that demanded attention:
"I, Veldora, Storm Dragon, Lord of the Jura Forest, decree that my domain is closed to outsiders. No one may enter without my express permission. Anyone who dares trespass will face the full wrath of my fury."
"Jura Forest is now my territory, and it will be respected as such."
As Veldora traveled, each kingdom's reaction ranged from fear to anger. The power that Veldora exuded was undeniable, but it also raised many questions. His presence was not something people could ignore. Here's how different kingdoms responded:
The Eastern Empire (Ruled by Rudra) – The imperial court was thrown into chaos. Rudra, a powerful human ruler, had knows of Veldora's strength, but the declaration of ownership over the Jura Forest unsettled him.
Some of his generals suggested sending a group to test Veldora's claim, but Rudra was wise enough to know not to provoke such a mighty being. He quietly sent a messenger to Veldora, asking for clarification on any potential agreements or stipulations.
The Kingdom of the high humans – King Jahil, their ruler, was an ambitious and prideful leader. He saw Veldora's declaration as a challenge to his authority and was furious. His forces began to mobilize near the Jura border, preparing for a possible confrontation. Jahil was not one to back down easily, even in the face of overwhelming power.
Kingdom of Carnada – Carnada, known for its resource-rich lands, saw this as a potential opportunity. They were hesitant, yet fascinated by the idea of aligning with Veldora if he proved capable of protecting his territory. They considered sending an emissary to discuss terms of coexistence.
Flitwood – Flitwood's forest-dwelling people, who lived in harmony with nature, were in awe of Veldora's power but also intrigued by his offer. They saw him as a potential ally in keeping their forests safe. They sent a representative to establish a friendly relationship.
The Military Kingdom of Dolan – Dolan, ruled by the battle-hardened General Tyrus, responded with an approach grounded in respect. They understood the importance of territory and military might, but Tyrus saw Veldora's declaration as a reminder of who held the ultimate power in the world. He sent an ambassador to Veldora, requesting a formal agreement on non-aggression.
After hours of declarations and various reactions, Veldora returned to his territory.
That evening, after a long and exhausting day, Veldora returned to the Eminence of Shadow where Arion awaited.
As Veldora entered the grand central tower, his usual prideful demeanor took center stage. He puffed his chest out as if to say, "Look at me, the mighty dragon has done his job." But Arion could tell that Veldora had been surprised by the reactions from the kingdoms.
"So, Veldora, how did it go?" Arion asked with a hint of amusement, observing his companion.
Veldora scoffed, brushing off any concerns.
"Hmph, what do you think? Of course, it went perfectly. No one dares to cross the Storm Dragon!"
Arion raised an eyebrow, sensing a hint of pride mixed with uncertainty.
"Did you encounter any problems?"
"A few kingdoms dared to question me," Veldora muttered. "The high humans King Jahil was one of them, and the Eastern Empire, led by Rudra, didn't seem too happy about it either."
Arion chuckled. "It's good that they're not stupid enough to challenge you directly."
Veldora shrugged, but there was a small grin on his face, as if he was secretly pleased with the reactions. The world was clearly fearing him more than he had anticipated.
"Well, since you've been so impressive, I've got something for you," Arion said with a mysterious smile. He raised his hand and from the depths of his mind, summoned a collection of books. These weren't just any books, though—they were manga, science fiction, assassin novels, and many more genres. Arion had woven these from his memory, inspired by countless experiences and knowledge.
Veldora's eyes widened, and his first reaction was classic.
"Books? Me? I'm a mighty dragon, why would I need books?" he scoffed, as his usual tsundere pride flared up. "I don't need these to learn anything!"
But Arion, with his calm, patient demeanor, placed the books in front of him, teasing him lightly.
"You might find them interesting. Give it a try."
"Hmph!" Veldora huffed, but eventually, his curiosity got the better of him. He picked up a manga about a legendary assassin and started flipping through it, albeit with great reluctance.
The first few pages, Veldora's face remained rigid, his eyes scanning the text with little enthusiasm. But as he read further, his expression began to soften, his interest slowly piquing.
"What the hell is this…?!" he muttered under his breath, as he read a shocking plot twist in a science fiction novel.
"This assassin is so… clever! I never thought of using such techniques."
The pages began to turn faster, his fascination with these stories and tactics growing.
"This assassin character is so sneaky! He's using shadows to move undetected… Wait, I could do that! I can learn this!"
Veldora became so absorbed in the books that Arion couldn't help but chuckle at his companion's change in demeanor. The mighty Storm Dragon, once dismissive of such trivialities, was now deep into the pages, eagerly devouring every word.
"See? I told you," Arion said with a grin, watching Veldora lose himself in the assassin tactics, plots, and philosophies contained in the stories.
As Veldora read, he began to reflect on the storylines and strategies in the books. There was a sense of excitement and fascination in his heart—almost like he was learning a new art. He could see how the tactics in the assassin stories could be applied to his own territory and how subtle manipulation could help him maintain control over the Jura Forest.
"I'll use these methods… for the greater good, of course," he muttered, now fully engrossed in a strategic tale of empire-building.
"This could be useful. It's not just about raw strength... It's about control, patience... and shadow."
As the day drew to a close, Arion and Veldora shared a quiet moment of reflection. Veldora had found something new—something that made him feel more human, more like a strategist than just a creature of destruction. The books had opened a new path for him.
"You've done more than just help me find my place," Veldora said thoughtfully, looking at Arion with newfound respect.
Maybe these books will make me even stronger."
Arion smiled, feeling a sense of satisfaction at the thought.
"We're only just getting started," Arion replied, "The world is ours for the taking."
With Veldora's newfound passion for the books and Arion's growing power, it seemed that nothing could stand in their way as they plotted their next move.