The days that followed the establishment of Ironwood Village saw Eldrin’s domain expand rapidly. With valuable information gleaned from captured adventurers and emissaries sent to neighboring demi-human tribes, alliances were forged and territories secured. Orcs, beastlings, goblins, and even a few trolls pledged their allegiance, swelling Eldrin’s ranks and transforming his dominion into a burgeoning barony.
The captured adventurers, eager to secure their freedom and impressed by Eldrin’s burgeoning power, provided crucial insights into nearby resources and strategic locations. Among the wealth of information, they revealed the existence of an oasis teeming with life and a nearby gold and iron mine. Eldrin wasted no time in dispatching scouts to verify these claims, and upon confirmation, he ordered the construction of a small town at the oasis.
Under Eldrin’s guidance and with the expertise of Soren and Grathor, the town flourished. The oasis provided ample water for extensive fields and pastures where crops and livestock thrived. Barns were erected to house animals, and breeders were tasked with breeding mounts and other creatures suitable for war and transport.
Meanwhile, the discovery of additional copper mines bolstered Eldrin’s resource base, ensuring a steady supply of essential metals for weapons, armor, and infrastructure. With the mines secured, the blacksmiths and artisans of Ironwood Village began crafting bronze full plate armor and weapons for the growing army.
Bronze-clad soldiers patrolled the borders, maintaining vigilance against any threats to Eldrin’s expanding domain. Those deemed more elite were outfitted in iron full plate, a testament to Eldrin’s burgeoning military might and growing influence.
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As the town near the oasis flourished, Eldrin summoned a council of his most trusted advisors. Seated in a makeshift hall, built from stone quarried from nearby cliffs, they discussed the next steps in solidifying their hold over the wastelands.
“Resources are plentiful,” Soren remarked, poring over maps spread across the council table. “But we must ensure our defenses are strong. Reports suggest neighboring kingdoms are taking notice of our expansion.”
Grathor nodded in agreement, his eyes flickering with a shrewdness born of years spent navigating the wilderness. “Our alliances with the tribes have strengthened our position,” he added. “But we must remain vigilant. Not all view our rise with favor.”
Eldrin listened intently, his mind already racing ahead to future challenges and opportunities. The council’s discussion turned to diplomatic missions to neighboring kingdoms, proposing trade agreements and alliances that could further bolster their defenses and resources.
“We must also continue to expand our agricultural and breeding programs,” Eldrin interjected, his voice firm. “And increase our efforts in training and equipping our forces. We cannot afford complacency.”
The advisors nodded in agreement, their expressions reflecting determination and resolve. The road ahead was fraught with challenges, but Eldrin’s vision and leadership instilled confidence in his council.
As the council meeting drew to a close, Eldrin stood, his gaze sweeping over the assembled group. “Our conquest has just begun,” he declared, his voice echoing with certainty. “Together, we will shape the future of these wastelands and secure our place among its rulers.”
With that, Eldrin led his council out into the gathering dusk, their minds already focused on the tasks ahead. The expansion of Eldrin’s domain was far from over, and the challenges awaiting them would test their strength, unity, and resolve like never before.