Months passed. The Vale Clan's hierarchy began to show cracks. Trust between conspirators faltered, and confusion spread like wildfire. Aron moved like a shadow, quietly tightening his grip. He expanded his network, mentoring overlooked disciples while planting seeds of loyalty, doubt, and fear.
He also intensified his study of forbidden techniques. Mind-forging, energy redirection, and manipulation of perception became second nature. He could now predict actions several steps ahead, subtly influencing decisions without revealing himself. The clan had begun to rely on his guidance unknowingly, a testament to his growing unseen influence.
But danger remained. Kael, humiliated and enraged, returned once more—this time with an outside sect's backing. Aron anticipated the challenge. Using his allies and the environment, he devised traps and contingencies that neutralized Kael's raw power while exposing vulnerabilities in his new allies. The confrontation was precise and devastating: Kael and his cohort were forced to retreat, their strength rendered ineffective by foresight, positioning, and the careful orchestration of events.
The outcome cemented Aron's reputation. Fear and respect now mingled wherever his name was whispered. Talentless? Perhaps—but lethal in ways no one had expected. His position was no longer peripheral; he had become a force that the Vale Clan could not ignore.