The moon rose over the vast territory of the Abyssal Dragon Empire. Lu Ming stood on the highest tower of his fortress, watching as the army prepared for the impending war. The flames of the torches illuminated the bustle of the dragonian workers moving precisely and quickly throughout the camp, reinforcing the defenses and building new structures under his command.
**[System Notification: Fortress Upgrade in progress.]**
**Lu Ming** took a deep breath, aware that every minute was crucial. He needed to prepare not only to defend his territory, but also to ensure that his troops at the front could conquer the enemy cities. The draconian soldiers worked tirelessly, moving large blocks of stone and wood, upgrading the walls, and erecting watchtowers. Everything had to be ready for the arrival of the enemy armies.
"We need more defenses on the western perimeter," Lu Ming said to **Draconian Priest Lyra**, who stood beside him after having been recently summoned for the defense of the fortress. "If the elves or dwarves attempt a surprise attack, that is the most vulnerable spot."
Lyra nodded. "Understood, master. I will have the dragonian workers fortify that area immediately. Also, I have been thinking of using magic runes to protect the weak points of the fortress. It could be an effective additional defense."
Lu Ming smiled at the priest's cunning. "Do it. We will leave nothing to chance."
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**Strengthening the Defenses**
With Lyra's advice, Lu Ming ordered the summoning of more dragonian workers to speed up the improvements to the fortress. These workers, with their enhanced skills, began to transform the structure, adding layers of protection and new barricades. The watchtowers were equipped with ballistas capable of firing huge projectiles, and the walls were reinforced with abyssal stone, resistant to both physical and magical attacks.
**[System Notification: 500 additional dragon workers have been summoned.]**
The sound of hammers and saws filled the air as the fortress took on a more imposing form. Meanwhile, Lu Ming made his way to the summoner's altar. He knew he needed more power to protect his territory while his armies were divided.
"I'll summon more soldiers," he thought out loud. "We need more troops to defend the fortress and protect the workers."
With a wave of his hand, he activated the altar. **[System Notification: Summoning 10,000 draconic soldiers. Cost: 100,000 gold coins.]** which he obtained from the deaths of the elven and dwarven soldiers. The green flames on the altar burned brightly, and one after another, draconic soldiers emerged, armed and ready for battle.
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**Two New Leaders**
With his army increasing, Lu Ming knew he needed more leaders. "It's time to summon a new general and a new priest," he said, looking towards the altar. He knew the cost would be high, but he also knew he needed trustworthy commanders to defend his territory in his absence.
**[System Notification: Summoning Draconic General and Draconic Priest. Total cost: 2,000 gold coins.]**
From the shadows of the altar, two imposing figures emerged. The new **Draconic General**, **General Thalor**, was a tall, muscular being with shiny black scales and a look that denoted experience on the battlefield. Beside him, **Draconian Priest Lyra** emerged with a mystical aura that radiated power. His cape fluttered in the wind, and his eyes shone with a silver light.
"General Thalor, Priest Lyra," Lu Ming greeted. "You will be in charge of the defense of our fortress. Each of you will command 5,000 soldiers and protect this territory with your lives."
Thalor beat his chest in respect. "We will protect this place with honor, master. No enemy will pass through these gates as long as we are here."
Lyra, in a soft but firm voice, added, "And no ally will fall as long as my magic can sustain them."
Lu Ming nodded, satisfied with his new reinforcement. "I trust both of you. The other generals and priests are in the field, conquering new lands. But our fortress must remain strong. We have an empire to protect."
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**Battles on the Front**
Meanwhile, on the front, the two halves of the army continued their advance towards the enemy cities. **General Varok** and **Priest Aleron** were about to launch their surprise attack through the underground passage towards the **Stone City**, facing rock creatures and underground traps.On the other side, **General Selene** and **Priest Zephyr** were preparing for a night raid on the **Silver City**, facing magic and elven guerrillas.
Each leader knew their mission was crucial. Lu Ming had given them a monumental task: conquer the cities and prove the strength of the Abyssal Dragon Empire.
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**The Mysterious Visitor**
Back at the fortress, a messenger came running towards Lu Ming. "Master, there is an emissary from the **Eternal Wind Nomads** here. He says he has a proposition for you."
Lu Ming frowned. "Interesting… Bring him before me."
The emissary, a shrewd man named **Kael**, was brought before Lu Ming. "Greeting, great lord of the Abyssal Dragon Empire," Kael began. "I come with a proposition that could benefit both of us."
"Speak quickly," Lu Ming said coldly. "I am in the midst of preparations for war."
Kael smiled. "That is precisely why I am here. We offer valuable information regarding the movements of the elves and dwarves, as well as a non-aggression treaty. In return, we only ask for access to certain magical resources that your territory possesses."
Lu Ming watched him carefully. "And why should I trust you or your people?"
Kael maintained his smile. "Because we know that an alliance with us could tip the balance in their favor. And because we know that if you do not accept, you will soon have to face more enemies."
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