Within two weeks, problems appeared.
Several major supply routes slowed.
Caravans were delayed.
Prices of iron, grain, and mana crystals rose suddenly.
Merchants complained daily.
Kelsin brought reports one after another.
"Three routes blocked by 'bandits.' Two ports delayed by inspections. Warehouses refusing storage."
Selene frowned. "This is coordinated."
Arin nodded. "A trade blockade."
Not with armies.
With money.
"They're testing us," Rynor said.
"And hoping we panic," Lyra added.
Arin remained calm.
"Then we adapt."
He issued rapid orders.
"Open emergency reserves."
"Redirect southern routes."
"Contact independent traders."
"Subsidize small merchants."
Within days, dozens of minor traders were given low-interest loans and protection contracts.
Many accepted eagerly.
New trade paths formed.
Old monopolies weakened.
Meanwhile, Rynor's Shadow Guard dismantled bandit groups along key roads.
Captured leaders confessed.
Paid by Iron Coin Union.
Arin collected proof.
Kael organized it carefully.
Then Arin struck.
He announced reduced tariffs for independent guilds.
Open markets.
Transparent fees.
Trade surged.
Small merchants flourished.
Consumers benefited.
Large guilds began losing profits.
Lorian panicked.
"Why isn't he collapsing?!"
Instead, Blackridge's economy strengthened.
Trevik City became a regional hub.
The system responded.
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Economic Warfare Survived]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Market Control +12%]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Merchant Loyalty Increased]
One evening, Lady Mira visited again.
"You outplayed them," she said with admiration.
Arin smiled faintly. "They underestimated the people."
She looked at him curiously.
"You really intend to build something lasting, don't you?"
"Yes," Arin replied quietly. "A dynasty."
Far away, the hooded figure observed.
"He wins without blood."
"Troublesome."
In the imperial palace, a sealed report reached the emperor's desk.
"Sixth Prince… expanding influence… economic reform… popular support…"
The emperor paused.
Then smiled faintly.
"Interesting."
The game was growing larger.
And Arin was no longer a minor piece.