The city of Eldros moved under the watchful eyes of a presence no one could see.
The Veiled Doctrine had begun to take root, threads of influence stretching through alleys, markets, and homes. Kael moved confidently among the citizens, subtly guiding conversations, planting suggestions, and ensuring the patterns unfolded exactly as Arin had predicted.
Arin observed from the shadows of a rooftop, Riven at his side. "The first test succeeded," Arin said, his voice calm. "Now we escalate. Influence must spread beyond observation. It must create results the city cannot ignore."
Riven nodded. "How do you intend to do that?"
Arin's eyes narrowed slightly. "By orchestrating events. A minor disruption, unnoticed by most, will reveal who truly follows and who resists. We will test the Doctrine's strength, and strengthen our threads where they are weak."
By evening, the plan was in motion. A festival in the city square, normally peaceful, became the stage for Arin's subtle maneuvers. Merchants were nudged to act nervously, guards to hesitate, and citizens to react unpredictably—all guided by whispered directions from Kael and the Doctrine's growing network.
One minor argument erupted between vendors over a misdelivered shipment. Normally trivial, it escalated just enough to draw attention, but the outcome remained entirely under Arin's control. Through carefully placed gestures, whispers, and manipulations, he ensured that the disturbance highlighted his unseen authority.
Authority +41
By the night's end, the city had unknowingly demonstrated obedience to the Doctrine's design. The temple's enforcers, investigating the incident, found confusion, misdirection, and a sense of inevitability in the citizens' actions. Nothing was traceable back to Arin, yet his power was now undeniable in subtle ways.
Kael returned to the hidden courtyard, exhilarated. "It worked exactly as you predicted. Everyone acted as we guided them. The temple doesn't even suspect us."
Arin allowed himself a faint smile. "This is only the beginning. Every action, every hesitation, every thought influenced is a step toward the city moving entirely under our direction. Patience and subtlety are stronger than swords."
Outside, Eldros slept restlessly. The Watcher's influence had spread further than anyone could see. The Doctrine was no longer just a network—it was a force, shaping the city quietly, invisibly, and inevitably.
And in the silent night, authority grew stronger.