And so, the Kingdom of Verdant Vale once more had peace, day in and day out the kingdom was flourishing. And so, the days turned into weeks and weeks turned into months until months turned into 1 year.
In this one year, the kingdom was able to have a major increase in strength and population growth. The population expanded from 15,000 people to a staggering amount of about 25,000 people, of which most have heard of the battle of Jubi river and tried their luck by coming to the Vale. Most of which are merchants and vagabonds. In order to manage this amount of people two new towns was constructed namely Mistwood Town in the west just beside the Great Elvenwood forest and Misty Haven Town to the east of the forest of Elpine a few hundred kilometers away from Blackthorn Town.
Then when it came to the ships and water trade, the town of Misty Haven was made the trade center for the river, where a few Sea Sprite boats were used, reaching about 10 boats. The Oceanic Caravella has increased its number to 4 ships boosting their trade ability.
Now, with all the expanded territory and expanded populace the army size was increased to about 2000 which, for a Tier 5 was extremely huge. Ethan came to the realization that advancing fast is not always a good thing so instead of rushing toward a Tier 4 level he commanded his soldiers to steady himself and to accumulate. So that when they are in Tier 4, they would at least be able to protect themselves.
So, because if that order Asher was told to slow down and he need not rush to advance to Mortal level. The increase in strength is absolutely monstrous. First off Ethan decided to expand his Knight Orders and establish 3 more. The Emerald Falcon Knight Order was a knight order solely made up of archers- This order is composed of highly skilled archers, masters of long-range combat. They are often employed as scouts and protectors of the kingdom's borders. Ethan realized that as the kingdom expanded not all of them would become axemen and as such he wanted to create an independent order for them which suited them.
This Knight Order would work in conjunction with every order except the Ravens as they are the best scouts and trackers. The Azure Dragon Knight Order is dedicated to the protection of the kingdom's rivers and waterways. They excel in naval combat and are often tasked with defending coastal regions. And finally, the Order of the Eternal Oath: This knight order is known for their unbreakable vow of loyalty and their unwavering commitment to their King. They would be the elite of the elite, nurtured from a young age with the sole purpose of protecting the king. This Order is only known to 2 individuals, and they are Ethan himself and Asher.
So, with the establishment of the new Knight Orders the strength of the kingdom looked as follows:
Dragons Fang:
1 Peak
5 Late stage
10 Mid-stage
22 Early-stage
300 Trainees
Obsidian Guard:
1 Peak
6 Late stage
17 Mid-stage
23 Early-stage
600 Trainees
Dawnbringers:
1 Peak
5 Late stage
12 Mid-stage
19 Early-stage
450 Trainees
Ravens Shadow:
1 Peak
7 Late stage
15 Mid-stage
14 Early-stage
150 Trainees
Emerald Falcon:
4 Late stage
4 Mid-stage
12 Early-stage
150 Trainees
Azure Dragon:
4 Late stage
6 Mid-stage
13 Early-stage
200 Trainees
Eternal Oath:
8 Mid-stage
Which in total made 3 Lord Commanders, 31 Knight Captains, 72 Knight Lieutenants, 103 Knights and 1850 Trainees. That was an absolute ludicrous number for a Tier 5 because a newly advanced Tier 4 woul need 1 Mortal, 10 Late stage, 25 Mid-stage and 60 Early-stage knights, maybe only average or strong Tier 4 kingdoms would have the strength they now had.
Well, it would be 4 Lord Commander level knights as Ethan had advanced to Peak apprentice about 4 months ago and he has been slowing down his cultivation ever since then. Now almost everything was covered except that not only has the knights level increased the Knight Orders had even gotten their own mount or companion- the Obsidian Dreadbear for the Obsidian Order, with its dark, obsidian armor, this bear mount strikes fear into the hearts of enemies. The hardened black plates increase the resistance against heavy blows as they act as heavy armor.
Jade Talon Falcon for the Emerald Falcon Knight Order, with feathers that resemble polished jade, the Jade Talon Falcon is a symbol of strength and resilience. This falcon possesses incredible speed and sharp talons, making it a formidable ally in battle. Knights who choose the Jade Talon Falcon gain a loyal companion with an air of mystery.
Titanium Tusk Seal for the Azure Dragon Knight Order, The Titanium Tusk Seal has a muscular body covered in shimmering, metallic scales that provide it with natural armor. It boasts two massive tusks made of enchanted crystal, which emit a soft, ethereal glow. These tusks are used for defense and intimidation and even with its large size it is incredibly swift in the water.
The Royal Wardens for the Eternal Oath Order are majestic, mythical beings that embody strength, loyalty, and grace. Standing at an imposing height, they possess a regal and noble presence, with a physique that combines the power of a lion with the elegance of a wolf. Their fur or feathers are in rich hues, reflecting the colors associated with the royal family and the kingdom.