Frostwind had transformed from a fragile, abandoned province into a stronghold of trade, discipline, and loyalty. The elite army trained relentlessly, villages thrived, and alliances were forming beyond its borders.
Yet, power always attracts scrutiny.
Kelsin approached Arin early one morning, his expression serious.
"My lord, reports from the neighboring provinces indicate unease among minor lords. They are watching us closely… and some are mobilizing small forces under the guise of training."
Arin studied the map.
"Let them watch. They cannot harm us if we act strategically."
Selene frowned.
"They may attempt to pressure our allies, spread rumors, or disrupt trade. Subtle sabotage could escalate quickly."
Lyra added, "And there's a fluctuation in mana flows near the northern mountains. It could be residual from the Frost Sovereign's awakening—or a new threat preparing."
Arin nodded.
"Prepare patrols, double intelligence sweeps, and maintain readiness. I want reports on all unusual activity immediately."
Over the next week, Frostwind's elite units intercepted several sabotage attempts: supply caravans targeted by rogue mercenaries, corrupted contracts in the markets, and even a few magical traps near key districts. Each time, Arin's team neutralized them before any real damage occurred.
Kael reported quietly one evening,
"My lord, these attempts appear coordinated. Someone is testing your limits, but they are clever—they haven't revealed themselves fully."
Arin's eyes narrowed.
"Good. Then we make them reveal themselves."
He convened a strategic meeting with Rynor, Selene, and Lyra.
"Our enemies expect us to react blindly," he said. "We will set traps. Force them into action where we have advantage. Territory, intelligence, and elite units—all synchronized."
The system responded quietly:
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Tactical Preparation Completed]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Enemy Reconnaissance Data Collected]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Strategic Advantage +10%]
Within days, subtle maneuvers began. Supply caravans were rerouted, patrols shifted unpredictably, and intelligence operatives spread false rumors about hidden reinforcements.
One night, a group of disguised mercenaries attempted to attack a small Frostwind village. They were ambushed instantly by Shadow Guard units. Only a few escaped.
Rynor laughed as the survivors fled.
"They never learn."
Arin observed silently, calm as ever.
"This is the rhythm of power. Those who underestimate it will fall. Those who adapt… will survive."
Far away, in the imperial capital, nobles whispered once more.
"The Sixth Prince… he is consolidating power faster than we imagined. Frostwind isn't just a province anymore—it's a fortress."
And in the shadows, the hooded figure's voice echoed softly:
"He grows stronger… but every dynasty faces its first real challenge. Soon, he will meet it."
Arin stood on the northern wall of Frostwind, wind whipping snow around him.
The elite army trained below. Villages were vibrant. Allies were loyal. Enemies watched and hesitated.
For the Sixth Prince, the dynasty's rise was no longer hidden.
And yet, the storm beyond the horizon had just begun.