Chapter 13: The Architect of Fate: Rise of the Dark Fortress
As Ares embarked on this new phase of his life, the horizon stretched out before him, a vast landscape teeming with possibilities. He had conquered the trials of Aelio Island and become its true master, but now, his ambitions reached beyond mere survival or mastery. He desired something grand, something that could stand as a testament to his strength, his determination, and his unyielding will. He dreamed of a castle—no, not just any castle, but a fortress that would reflect his journey, his victories, and his future reign. He envisioned "The Great Tomb of Nazarick," a cold, dark, and imposing structure that would inspire both awe and fear. Ares had been fascinated by the majestic tomb of Ainz Ooal Gown ever since he'd first seen it in the anime. Its towering spires and shadowy corridors spoke to him on a deep level, embodying everything he sought in a place to call his own.
The island was a canvas, and he was ready to paint his masterpiece. With the resources he had gathered over the years and his unmatched skill set, Ares began his work, using the Shadow Clone Jutsu to summon thousands of copies of himself. Ten thousand clones appeared in a puff of smoke, each one a reflection of his will and ambition, ready to assist in the monumental task ahead. Ares laughed maniacally, his excitement barely contained. "Mwahaha! I'm the king of the world!" he shouted, his voice echoing through the island's vast expanse. It wasn't arrogance—it was pure joy. The thought of living in a castle, ruling over the island, filled him with boundless excitement. His body trembled with anticipation as the foundations of his dream took shape.
As the clones worked tirelessly, Ares had help from his loyal Little Ely and Fenrir flitted around the construction site, they transformed the island's landscape into a domain fit for a king. Alongside them, Ares' summoning beast, a slime, proved to be an unexpected yet invaluable assistant. Though small and seemingly harmless, the slime had an innate ability to assist with the finer details of the castle's construction, absorbing materials and reshaping them with its gooey form. Its efficiency added to the overall speed of the project.
Years passed in a blur of hard work and relentless dedication. The island, once a place of mystery and isolation, slowly transformed into the domain Ares had envisioned. Every day, he pushed himself and his companions harder, refining the structures, enhancing the foundations, and adding intricate details to his castle. It wasn't just about the physical aspects; Ares infused the very spirit of his journey into the castle's walls, creating something that was not only a building but a living reflection of his experiences, his struggles, and his triumphs.
After countless years of blood, sweat, and tears, Ares stood at the gates of his completed castle, a sense of fulfillment washing over him. The Great Tomb of Nazarick had risen from the island like a dark jewel, its towering spires reaching into the sky, casting long shadows across the land. The walls, built with his blood, his resolve, and the unwavering support of his companions, stood firm and proud against the elements. The cold, imposing architecture was now a part of the island, a symbol of Ares' dominance.
The journey wasn't just about constructing a castle—it was about building a legacy, one that would stand for all time, a reflection of his undying ambition and the strength he had forged through his trials. Ares smiled, his heart swelling with pride. He was no longer just a survivor or a wanderer. He was the master of this island, the ruler of his own fate, and the architect of his future.
With his companion, and his summons loyal and true, Ares now looked toward the horizon with a new sense of purpose. The world was vast, and there were battles to be fought, enemies to face, and challenges to overcome. But for now, in the quiet solitude of his castle, Ares allowed himself to savor the moment. It was the calm before the storm, and he was ready for whatever came next. His slow life had begun, and with it, the rise of a new legend.