With Frostwind secured and intelligence networks in place, Arin turned his gaze outward. He had allies and loyal troops—but controlling only Frostwind and Trevik was not enough. To survive the political games of the empire, he needed more power.
"Kael, map the neighboring provinces," Arin instructed. "Find weaknesses, opportunities, and potential allies."
Kael spread the map across the table. "Three provinces are semi-independent. Two are loyal to the Emperor. The semi-independent ones have internal strife—noble rivalries, corrupt officials, and minor monster infestations. Easy targets for influence, but risky if mishandled."
Selene leaned in. "We can offer assistance under the guise of aid. Help them manage internal conflicts, provide military training, improve infrastructure. Make them dependent on Frostwind."
Lyra added, "Mana infrastructure improvements can tie them to us. Once connected, loyalty will be hard to break."
Arin smiled faintly. "Very well. Prepare the plan, but quietly. No one must suspect we are expanding our influence so rapidly."
Over the next two weeks, envoys were sent to the semi-independent provinces. They brought gifts, trade agreements, and technical aid. Small units of elite troops traveled with them under cover of being trainers and advisors.
Kael reported constantly. "Lords in Province A have accepted our advisors. Minor conflicts resolved. Trade routes stabilized. They are willing to pledge allegiance if given further assistance."
Rynor smirked. "And the ones who refuse?"
Arin's expression hardened. "We don't force them… yet. But we make sure they understand the cost of rejection."
Meanwhile, Frostwind's elite army continued training, preparing for rapid deployment if any threat arose. New recruits demonstrated remarkable progress, their talent growing daily under Rynor's brutal but effective methods.
Lyra established advanced mana relay points in the provinces. Each node reinforced barriers, enabled communication, and provided early warning of hostile activity.
The system updated silently:
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Provincial Influence Expanded]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Elite Units Deployed Strategically]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Network Efficiency +10%]
By the end of the month, two semi-independent provinces had pledged loyalty. Trade increased, military coordination improved, and Arin's reputation as a capable and fair leader spread quickly.
Even loyalist nobles in the capital began whispering.
"The Sixth Prince… he is no longer weak."
The hooded figure, observing from afar, spoke softly:
"He grows faster than predicted. Phase Two must accelerate."
Arin stood on the northern wall of Frostwind, looking at the horizon. Snow-covered mountains stretched endlessly, yet his mind reached even farther.
"Trevik. Frostwind. Provinces beyond. Step by step… the dynasty rises."