From the top of the hills, the dragons gazed at Verdalis. The plain stretched out before them, vivid and radiant, almost unreal. Rivers sparkled under the sun, and the trees seemed to rise with newfound strength.
A murmur ran through the crowd:
> "It's… impossible…"
"Even the gods could never reclaim these lands… and they're… fertile?"
A young dragon, jaw tight, shook his head:
> "Lord, look… these lands should be cursed, infested with monsters… how is this possible?"
Other dragons exchanged worried glances, some shivering, unable to look away from the perfect expanse before them. A louder whisper rose, tinged with defiance:
> "Who says this isn't a trap? Even our combined forces could never hope to conquer this place."
Ryo observed the people, impassive, his voice resonating over the hills:
> "People of Ashen… these lands are now cultivable. Their name is Verdalis. Approach with caution and respect, and you will find food, shelter, and prosperity. But remember, their wealth depends on your vigilance and labor."
The dragons instinctively recoiled, incredulous. Some reached out their hands hesitantly, as if to check whether the ground was an illusion. Others whispered among themselves, skeptical:
> "No… it's impossible… how could a single lord accomplish this miracle where even the gods failed?"
"Perhaps we will never see the truth with our own eyes…"
Kaelen, silently hovering above the plains, observed every movement, ready to intervene if corruption dared to emerge. But for now, the miracle was complete, and even the skeptics could not look away from Verdalis.
A light breeze carried Ryo's voice one last time:
> "These lands are your heritage. Take care of them, but remember: what seems impossible can become real in devoted hands."