While political alliances formed, Arin knew that influence alone would not secure Frostwind or the dynasty's future. A strong army was essential—not just soldiers, but elite units capable of responding to any threat.
He called Rynor and Kael to the fortress courtyard early in the morning.
"Rynor, you will lead the creation of an elite corps," Arin said, spreading a map of Frostwind and surrounding provinces. "They will be faster, stronger, and more disciplined than any regular troops."
Rynor's eyes lit up. "Finally, I get to build them my way."
Kael added, "We'll need to recruit from multiple regions. Talented recruits, not just mercenaries. Those who show potential for both strategy and combat."
Selene and Lyra joined, discussing magic support. Lyra suggested establishing a layered mana grid for the elite troops: barriers for defense, mana channels for attacks, and detection arrays to prevent ambushes. Selene recommended training the troops in combined tactics—magic and melee together.
Recruitment began immediately. Scouts located promising candidates—teenagers with latent mana, young swordsmen with high potential, and even artisans capable of crafting improved weapons. Every candidate underwent testing.
Arin personally oversaw several drills.
Strength, Mana, Speed, Endurance, Intelligence, Tactical Awareness—all were measured carefully.
[SYSTEM PROMPT: New Military Recruitment Activated]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Talent Scouting +10%]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Elite Unit Formation Initiated]
Rynor pushed the soldiers hard. "If you can't survive a week under my training, you won't survive in the field!"
Lyra coordinated mana exercises, while Selene taught battlefield strategies. Within weeks, the corps showed remarkable growth. Even soldiers who were initially weak now displayed advanced skills.
Arin smiled as he watched a young swordsman, barely fifteen, deflect a full-strength strike from Rynor's practice blade.
"Potential," he murmured. "They will become legends."
Kael presented the latest report.
"My lord, with training completed and the elite units in place, Frostwind's military strength has increased by thirty-five percent. Local lords are impressed and more willing to submit to your authority."
Arin nodded. "Good. But this is just the beginning. We will need more if we intend to expand beyond Frostwind and Trevik."
Far away, in the imperial capital, whispers grew louder.
"The Sixth Prince… consolidating power… raising armies… forming alliances…"
Some nobles laughed nervously.
Some scowled.
Some began quietly preparing.
And in the shadows, the hooded figure observed, smirking faintly.
"He's stronger than expected… Phase Two approaches faster than planned."
Arin stood on the northern walls of Frostwind as snow swirled around him.
The elite army trained below.
Villages flourished.
Allies were loyal.
Enemies were aware.
And the Sixth Prince, once considered weak, was no longer a pawn in the imperial game.