Spring had fully returned to Frostwind, the mountains bathed in sunlight and the rivers running clear and swift. Soldiers drilled in precision, mages practiced coordinated elemental attacks, and trade flourished within the city. Yet today, the focus was different: integration of talent and leadership into one seamless force.
Arin stood at the central training ground, observing the candidates and elite units.
"Elara, Mira, Seren," he addressed them, "today we will conduct a combined exercise. You will each lead a squad, coordinating swordsmanship, magic, and strategic maneuvers against simulated enemy forces. Success will not depend on individual talent alone, but on teamwork, decision-making, and adaptability."
Kael gave a slight nod.
"My lord, this exercise will reveal both their leadership and ability to inspire cohesion under pressure."
The exercise began with simulated enemy squads approaching from multiple directions.
Elara organized her troops meticulously, integrating elemental barriers with close combat units. Her calm demeanor allowed her squad to respond efficiently, covering gaps and predicting enemy patterns.
Mira coordinated magic offensives and defenses across the battlefield, anticipating movements and managing resource allocation. She guided smaller squads strategically, ensuring that no attack went uncountered.
Seren, in contrast, charged forward, her speed and reflexes unmatched. She motivated soldiers to press forward, taking calculated risks that inspired courage in her squad and tested their adaptability.
Arin observed quietly, noting interactions, timing, and reactions. He saw how Elara's discipline complemented Mira's foresight, while Seren's daring pushed everyone to excel beyond their comfort zones.
The system updated:
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Candidate Integration +12%]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Army Cohesion +10%]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Tactical Flexibility +8%]
After the exercise, Arin approached the candidates.
"Elara, you anticipate threats and protect your team effectively. Mira, your foresight and coordination are exceptional. Seren, your courage and initiative inspire everyone around you. Together, your combined strengths form a balanced and formidable force."
Elara smiled faintly, a hint of pride in her calm demeanor.
"I will continue to improve and support Frostwind, my lord."
Mira inclined her head, serene but thoughtful.
"Coordination is most effective when trust exists. I will ensure this trust grows in both troops and allies."
Seren's grin was fiery, her energy undimmed.
"Sixth Prince, I'll push my limits and make sure the army grows stronger with every exercise."
Rynor, watching from the sidelines, chuckled softly.
"Looks like your dynasty is taking shape not just with soldiers, but with people who inspire each other. Strength multiplied by bonds."
Arin allowed himself a rare, faint smile.
"Yes. Soldiers fight for leaders they respect. Leaders shape soldiers who trust them. Frostwind will grow not just in size or power, but in cohesion—and those bonds will be the foundation of a dynasty that lasts for generations."
As the sun dipped toward the horizon, the training grounds echoed with the clang of swords, the hum of magic, and the laughter and cheers of soldiers and candidates alike. Harmony was forming—a subtle but powerful force that would carry Frostwind far beyond its borders.
The Sixth Prince understood clearly: the strength of a dynasty was measured not only in armies or magic, but in trust, loyalty, and shared purpose.
And with these first bonds forming, Frostwind's rise was unstoppable.