Morning sunlight glinted off the walls of Frostwind as Arin surveyed the troops gathered in the central square. Today was different from routine training. Today, he would see how his closest candidates performed in a real-world mission, testing not only their skills but their judgment and cooperation under pressure.
Kael approached with a report.
"My lord, scouts have reported minor bandit activity along the eastern border. Small groups are raiding villages, but nothing that exceeds the capacity of our elite squads. This is the perfect opportunity to test your candidates in the field."
Arin nodded thoughtfully.
"Very well. Elara, Mira, Seren—you will each lead a squad. Your objective: protect civilians, neutralize the threat, and return without casualties. Use strategy, magic, and combat skills as you see fit. Observation of your decision-making is as important as your success."
The candidates saluted, their determination evident.
Elara's calm authority radiated confidence. Mira's analytical gaze scanned the surroundings. Seren's fiery grin conveyed energy and readiness.
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Field Mission Initiated]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Candidate Tactical Evaluation Active]
The squads moved quickly to the affected villages. Arin watched from a vantage point, noting the coordination, communication, and adaptability of the candidates.
Elara assessed the situation calmly, assigning squads to protect civilians while taking calculated offensive actions. Her combination of swordsmanship and elemental magic created a defensive perimeter that minimized risk to villagers.
Mira used predictive strategies to anticipate bandit movements. Magical wards and traps were deployed, ensuring ambushes were avoided and enemy forces were efficiently neutralized. Her calm, precise instructions kept multiple squads coordinated under pressure.
Seren took the most aggressive approach, leading the vanguard to intercept bandits directly. Her reflexes and combat skill allowed her to neutralize threats swiftly, and her energy inspired the soldiers under her command to push past fear.
Arin observed silently, noting their strengths and differences. Together, they formed a balanced force: discipline, foresight, and courage combined seamlessly.
After the mission, Arin approached them in the village square. The bandits had been captured, civilians were unharmed, and the squads had returned efficiently.
"You have performed admirably," he said. "Elara, your calm and precise command minimized risk. Mira, your foresight ensured efficiency and coordination. Seren, your courage and initiative inspired your squads to excel under pressure."
Elara inclined her head respectfully.
"Thank you, my lord. I will continue to improve."
Mira's serene gaze met his.
"Observation and anticipation are valuable only when applied. Frostwind benefits from its people acting wisely."
Seren grinned brightly.
"I'll keep getting stronger, Sixth Prince. There's no one I can't face with the right team."
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Candidate Field Mission Success +15%]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Candidate Loyalty +7%]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Army Cohesion +6%]
Kael whispered beside Arin.
"My lord, their abilities complement each other perfectly. If they continue to work together, the bonds forming will make your army even more formidable."
Arin allowed himself a faint smile.
"Good. True strength lies in the combination of talent, loyalty, and trust. Today proved not just their skill, but their value as pillars of Frostwind's rising dynasty."
As the sun set, casting a warm glow over the village, Arin and his candidates stood together. Soldiers cleaned their weapons, civilians expressed gratitude, and the bonds between them deepened subtly yet undeniably.
The Sixth Prince knew this was only the beginning. Trust, respect, and shared purpose would continue to strengthen, and the foundations of loyalty, influence, and the dynasty itself were being laid—one mission at a time.