The halls of Velmira's Black Rose Fortress echoed with subtle footsteps as Elias strode through them, flanked by Selene and Layra. Tension simmered beneath the stone walls—the kind that came before storms, before sieges, or worse… betrayals.
Elias felt it all.
The System pulsed softly in his mind, weaving notifications and updates with each breath he took.
> [System Update]
Territory Influence: 82% – Velmira nearing full control.
Harem Progression: 22/50 Core Members.
Special Notice: High-value target – Mordane, Lord of the Southern District, has issued a challenge. Outcome will influence city-wide control.
Suggested Action: Confront Mordane personally.
Elias exhaled slowly.
The days of hiding, of reacting, were over. He was no longer a pawn on the board—he was the one flipping the game.
"Selene," Elias said without slowing his pace. "Is Mordane truly a threat, or just another arrogant noble playing war?"