With Frostwind secured and the elite army growing stronger by the day, Arin's focus shifted to influence beyond his immediate territories. Trevik and Frostwind were now stable, but semi-independent provinces and rival nobles were restless. Some saw his rise as a threat, while others considered him an opportunity.
Kael presented his findings in the strategy room.
"My lord, three provinces are politically divided. Minor noble families are constantly vying for position. Any province left unattended risks chaos—or worse, falling under another lord's influence."
Arin studied the reports carefully.
"Identify which families are ambitious but loyal. Which are manipulative but powerful. Then we approach them strategically—not with threats, but incentives."
Selene added, "We can offer military training, mana education, and infrastructure projects. We build reliance before loyalty."
Lyra nodded. "And mana nodes will connect them to Frostwind. Energy dependence makes rebellion harder."
Rynor smirked. "So, diplomacy disguised as aid. Clever."
Arin's expression was serious.
"Clever or necessary. Remember, power without loyalty is fragile. Influence, once gained, must be maintained with vigilance."
Over the next month, Arin's envoys spread across the neighboring provinces. Small gifts, training programs, and technical aid were offered under the guise of imperial support. While some minor lords resisted, most were swayed by the combination of tangible benefits and Arin's subtle reputation for competence.
Kael reported quietly one evening.
"My lord, Province A and Province B now openly support your initiatives. Provincial C remains cautious but cooperative if we assist them further."
The system responded.
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Diplomatic Influence Increased]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Neighboring Provinces Under Observation]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Vassal Loyalty +8%]
Arin convened his council in Frostwind's central hall.
"We have influence, but it is fragile," he said. "We must continue strengthening our army, intelligence, and economy simultaneously. One weakness could undo all progress."
Selene interjected, "And the Emperor? Reports of your influence are reaching the capital. He may see this as an overreach."
Arin smiled faintly.
"Let him watch. As long as he thinks we are loyal, he will hesitate to intervene. We will expand our power quietly, but steadily."
Meanwhile, in the imperial capital, whispers among the court grew louder.
"The Sixth Prince… consolidating two provinces, expanding influence… building an army… forming alliances… The balance of power is shifting."
And in the shadows, the hooded figure watched Arin's every move, lips curled in a faint smile.
"Preparation… patience… adaptation. Phase Two begins soon."
Arin stepped onto the northern wall of Frostwind that evening, snow swirling around him.
The elite army drilled below. Villages thrived. Allies were loyal. Enemies watched nervously.
The Sixth Prince was no longer merely surviving. He was shaping a dynasty.
But the storm beyond the horizon had begun moving closer.