Frostwind had grown into a symbol of strength, stability, and opportunity. Traders, soldiers, and citizens alike admired the Sixth Prince, but beyond the borders, rival nobles were becoming uneasy.
Kael entered the war room with an intelligence dossier.
"My lord, Lords Veyron and Selmira continue to maneuver strategically. They have increased patrols, disguised training exercises, and seem to be testing not just our defenses, but our decision-making."
Arin studied the movements carefully.
"They are probing for weaknesses," he said calmly. "We will give them what they seek… but on our terms."
Selene raised an eyebrow.
"You mean set a trap?"
Arin nodded.
"Yes. Controlled engagements, minimal risk to civilians, maximum intelligence yield. We observe, record, and learn. Their arrogance will be their undoing."
Rynor smirked.
"Finally, some real action. Let's see if their tactics can stand against Frostwind's elite corps."
Lyra suggested subtle magical enhancements along border paths.
"Mana barriers and detection arrays will allow us to track movements without revealing our full capabilities. Any attempt to breach or scout will be recorded."
Arin instructed Kael to prepare strategic simulations for the troops.
"Units must practice multi-role combat scenarios. Combined swordsmanship, magic, and reconnaissance. We will simulate real engagements against opponents of varying skill levels."
The system responded:
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Tactical Simulation Initiated]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Border Security +10%]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Elite Unit Readiness +12%]
Over the next several days, Frostwind's elite units conducted complex drills. Soldiers learned to act independently yet coordinate perfectly with mages. Small squads could repel raiding parties, defend trade routes, and execute ambushes flawlessly.
One evening, Kael reported:
"My lord, our intelligence shows that Lords Veyron and Selmira are beginning to second-guess each other. Minor conflicts are arising internally—they are already being influenced by our subtle actions."
Arin nodded with satisfaction.
"Good. Patience and observation work faster than open war. By the time they act, we will already have planned every countermeasure."
Rynor grinned, watching soldiers drill below.
"Sixth Prince, you've turned Frostwind into a chessboard. And everyone else… they're still playing checkers."
Arin gazed toward the northern mountains, where snow and ice blurred the horizon.
"Every probe, every move, every mistake they make… it strengthens Frostwind, and it strengthens us. The dynasty rises quietly, imperceptibly… until it cannot be ignored."
In the imperial capital, rumors of Frostwind's rising power reached even the Emperor.
"The Sixth Prince… controlling two provinces, influencing trade, training an elite army… how far will he go?"
And in the shadows, the hooded figure whispered,
"He adapts… he observes… he grows too fast. Phase Two must begin. The world will notice him soon."
Arin stood atop Frostwind's walls, snow swirling around him.
Soldiers trained below. Citizens thrived. Trade routes moved steadily.
The Sixth Prince was no longer overlooked. He was becoming an unstoppable force—and the game of power had only just begun.