Mikhail knew he had begun changing the future of House Armanov.But gathering power required more than strategy; he needed to understand the enemies hiding in the shadows. The empire was unraveling—noble alliances shifting, secret meetings spreading, and the royal family rapidly losing control.
Early that morning, the system issued a new mission:
[New Quest: "Shadow Hunt – Identify the Disloyal"]• Observe anyone with loyalty under 50%• Gauge external noble houses' opinions• Investigate information leaks in trade networks• Prevent the first potential betrayal
Mikhail exhaled."So… the game begins."
Unexpected Visitors
That afternoon, three noble families requested a private meeting with the young heir. Unusual—normally a 13-year-old would never be included.But Mikhail was no ordinary child.
The first representative was from the Yegorov Family. His posture was stiff, and his hands trembled slightly.
The system whispered:
[Loyalty: 48% – Likely to betray][Intent: Testing Armanov strength]
"Your house is rising in influence," the man began."Many nobles believe the empire is nearing collapse. What is your stance on this chaos?"
Mikhail held his gaze coldly."Armanov does not collapse. Armanov rises."
The representative forced a smile, but fear glimmered in his eyes.
The second meeting was with the Kozlov Family.This time the system showed:
[Loyalty: 76% – Loyal, but cautious]
"We are concerned about the instability," said the representative."If House Armanov can bring order, we are prepared to support you."
This was valuable. Allies would be essential.
The First Attempted Betrayal
Late that night, while writing plans for future reforms, Mikhail heard a faint sound outside his door.Barely perceptible footsteps.Metal brushing against wood.
The system triggered:
[Danger Detected – Unknown Intruder Approaching]
Mikhail muttered,"So soon…"
The door burst open.A masked attacker lunged.
But the system activated:
[Temporary Stat Boost: Agility +2]
Mikhail dodged aside, and the attacker crashed into the wall.Guards stormed in moments later, tackling the intruder.
The system analyzed the source:
[Betrayal Source: Treasury Division – Berezin][Goal: Eliminate the heir, create power vacuum]
Mikhail's expression darkened."So the snake finally showed itself."
Berezin, with 34% loyalty, had crossed the final line.
"Throw him in the dungeon," Mikhail ordered."And bring me every accounting record he touched."
He did not sleep that night.This was his first true test.
The Balance Shifts
At dawn, the system updated:
[Loyalty Map Updated]• Berezin – 0% → Traitor (Imprisoned)• General Rostov – 92% → Increased trust• Uncle Viktor – 49% → Warning level• Commander Oleg – 78% → Loyal
Then a new notification appeared:
[Kingdom Formation Probability: 57% → 63%][Threat Level: Moderate]
Mikhail looked into the mirror and whispered:"So the nobles are taking me seriously now…This can be good—or dangerous."
He added a new chapter to his notebook:"Betrayal Management and the Shadow Security Network"
From now on, he wasn't just building power.He was hunting the shadows that threatened him.
And nothing would be simple ever again.