Supreme BeastTamer: I Can Copy and Upgrade Skills 10x!

Nathan pointed to the spot where Cromwell was etched on the map as he said, "If we expand outward, merge with nearby towns, and build new trade routes to the south, this place can still serve as our capital."

The others might not have known it, but one of the reasons he wanted the capital to remain in Cromwell was because the place held a lot of memories.

And with the recent developments thanks to Nox's ant army, the old baron believed it was the most strategic location to build a capital.

Elvin, the archer, frowned and pointed out, "But Cromwell is surrounded by baby mountains. Trade caravans will find it difficult to reach us."

Nox's eyes gleamed as he chimed in. "Elvin, you're right, but at the same time, being surrounded by mountains could be advantageous to us."

"What do you mean?" Jack asked.

"One of the reasons the Vermilion royal capital was eventually captured was partly because of its terrain," said Nox. "These mountains would be a good place to build military outposts. Not only would it make it difficult for enemies to bypass them to reach the capital, it would also make it easier for us to fight them off."

"Nox is absolutely right." Aina nodded in agreement. "Besides, the Luminary Forest is pretty close to the sea. We can set up seaports there, facilitating trade between our kingdom and other kingdoms."

"How about building two separate cities? One close to the seaport, which can act as our trade and commerce center." Aina continued, "Back in Valhalla, we had something like that."

"Hm." A thoughtful expression crossed Nox's face. It wasn't a bad idea. Thanks to the settlements built by the Ant Queen, Cromwell could serve as a fortress and residential city, while the commercial hub would be the neighboring city located between the Luminary Forest and the ocean—from where one could even journey to the non-human continent.

"That's a great idea." He smiled faintly. "Also, I have an idea to make movement smoother between the two cities."

At his words, everyone sat up and listened attentively.

"We will build underground tunnels through the mountains, linking both cities. Of course, security would be placed in these tunnels to check anyone coming in and out."

Everyone nodded in agreement, thinking it was a clever idea. With the ants' hardworking nature, they were confident the tunnels could be built within a week.

"We'll dig the tunnels wide enough for wagons to pass through comfortably," Nox continued with an enthusiastic grin. "With torches or glowing crystals along the walls, travelers won't even realize they're underground. It'll be safe and easy to use."

Everyone's eyes lit up, and just imagining it made their blood boil with anticipation. There was a real possibility they were about to build the most well-planned and secure kingdom on the entire human continent.

Nox tapped the map where the tunnels would run. "The ant workers can start here at Cromwell and dig towards the coast," he explained. "They're fast and tireless. I'll coordinate with the Ant Queen to make sure the tunnels come out right near the new port site."

Nathan's eyes twinkled as he watched the younger members of the group banter. The older baron cleared his throat, bringing the discussion back on track.

"Alright, we have an excellent plan taking shape. Let's go over it once more and assign tasks." He looked around the table at each of them. "Cromwell remains our capital and fortress city. We'll strengthen it and expand it as needed. Near the Luminary Forest by the sea, we'll establish a new port city to handle trade and commerce. And we'll connect the two with these underground tunnels through the mountains."

Nyx tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear and nodded.

"It sounds wonderful. The capital will be safe and hidden in the mountains, and the trade city will be open to the world by sea." Her voice was gentle but filled with optimism. "We'll have the best of both worlds."

"Yes, and I've been thinking for a while." Nix suddenly spoke up. "The kingdom will be called Cromwell Kingdom. The capital will be referred to as the Crownhold, while the new city will be named Lumina Bay."

The others found the name simple and straightforward, so no one objected.

"To make all this happen, we need to divide the work." Nox placed both hands on the table, leaning forward slightly. Then he looked at his grandfather and said,

"Grandpa, Elvin, I want you and some Awakened to scout a safe path through the Luminary Forest down to the coast. We'll need a good road for supply wagons and travelers outside of the tunnels too, especially for those who prefer traveling above ground. Clear out any dangers in the forest—bandits, monsters, whatever might lurk there. Make it safe. Can you handle that?"

"Hahaha, consider it done. In fact, we'll leave right away." Nathan chuckled. "It's high time I got rid of the bandits in that forest."

"Thank you," Nox said appreciatively. His gaze shifted to Aina. "Mother, you were the one who brought up the seaport idea. I'd like you to lead the efforts for our new trade city by the sea."

Akira smiled. "You won't be alone, Aunt Aina. Back in Valhalla, I saw how a thriving trade city operates. I can help you design the layout—wide roads for carts, a big central market, and sturdy docks. We should also set aside an area for travelers from overseas to stay, maybe an inn or two near the port."

"That's an excellent idea," Aina agreed.

"Can I tag along too?" Serena asked softly.

"Sure." Nox didn't see any problem with it and gave her the go-ahead.

"Me too," Wendy added suddenly. "I'm pretty good with sketching."

"Then it's settled." Nox clapped his hands.

"As for Jack and Hans, you'll join forces with the ants to build and expand the walls."

"Boring task, but oh well, what can I say?" Jack shrugged.

When it seemed Nox was done, all eyes settled on him.

"What about you? What will you do?" Nathan asked.

Nox smiled as he proceeded to reveal his role in all this. "My task will be… to make sure our enemies never see this kingdom coming."