A Kingdom Among Giants
The World Congress Summit was more than a formal gathering.
It was a battlefield — not of weapons — but of words, influence, and unseen power.
Every handshake concealed motives.
Every smile masked calculations.
And Ardyn knew this was his next arena.
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System Notification
> [New Questline Unlocked: The Diplomatic Path of Kings]
Objective: Establish Strategic Alliances or Counter-Rivalries
Rewards:
Access to Global Trade Routes
Influence Points (IP) for Congress Proposals
Special Summon: "Envoy of Caelora"
Side Quests:
Forge Trade Agreements (0/3)
Establish Defensive Pact (0/2)
Uncover Espionage Plot (0/1)
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The First Approach — The Free Island Coalition
Ardyn's first meeting came from an unexpected source — a small delegation of independent island nations.
They were minor powers — too small to stand alone — yet too proud to fully submit to the superpowers.
Their spokesperson, Lady Viera of the Emerald Chain, spoke openly.
"King Ardyn… Caelora gives us hope. We want independence — not domination. Will you stand as our shield?"
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Decision Point — System Choice
> [Option 1] Form a Protectorate Alliance — Gain loyalty of small islands (Reward: Resource Tribute)
[Option 2] Offer Technological Assistance Only — Maintain neutrality (Reward: Research Blueprints)
[Option 3] Reject Alliance — Focus on Major Powers (Risk: Lose Potential Allies)
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Ardyn's Choice
"I will offer my hand," Ardyn said, "but not chains."
"Let us form the Caeloran Island Pact — a defensive alliance based on mutual respect."
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> System Update: Caeloran Island Pact Established
Gained Influence over:
Emerald Chain
Silver Tide Isles
Coral Heart Nation
Reward: Access to Unique Marine Resources
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The Shadows Stir
Later that night — within the golden towers of Aurelia — a cloaked figure approached Ardyn's Intelligence Head, Selene.
"I bring news from our watchers…"
"Velstryn is mobilizing covert operatives. They seek to undermine Caelora's alliances."
Selene's eyes narrowed.
"Then let's set the bait."
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New Side Quest Unlocked
> [Espionage Counter-Plot]
Objective: Expose Velstryn's Spy Network
Reward: Global Reputation (Stealth + Influence Bonus)
Bonus Reward: Shadow Operative Summon Token
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The Major Powers Watch
Meanwhile, Ardyn's bold moves had drawn attention from the great powers.
The Lumerian Empire
Their ambassador, Lord Caldris, approached him.
"You have potential, King of Caelora. We value vision over bloodlines. Trade with us — technology for resources."
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The Federation of Althar
A technocratic republic — their representatives offered digital infrastructure deals — in exchange for shared data rights.
Ardyn declined politely.
"Caelora's data belongs to Caelora."
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The Maritime Guild
Wealthy, ruthless corporations — seeking monopoly over Caelora's emerging ports.
Ardyn made it clear — Caelora would not be another colony.
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System Notification
> Diplomatic Relations Updated:
Lumerian Empire: Friendly
Federation of Althar: Neutral
Maritime Guild: Wary
Velstryn Dominion: Hostile
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Final Scene — A Warning in the Dark
As Ardyn prepared to depart Aurelia, a sealed letter arrived — unsigned.
Its message chilled him.
"You rise fast, King of Caelora. But remember..."
"The higher the tide, the stronger the storm."
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