With his new title as Provincial Lord, Arin wasted no time. Frostwind was still fragile—villages returning, trade routes barely functional, and monsters lurking in distant mountains. He knew that without strong foundations, authority would remain fragile.
He called a council meeting immediately.
"First," he said, spreading a detailed map of Frostwind, "we organize the territory into administrative districts. Each district will have a local steward. All must report directly to me."
Kelsin raised an eyebrow. "Do you have enough trustworthy people for that?"
Arin smiled faintly. "We'll train them. Anyone incompetent will be replaced immediately."
Selene nodded. "And the military?"
"Elite units in every district," Arin replied. "Two hundred soldiers minimum. Train the locals as militias. Every citizen should feel protected."
Lyra added, "I can install smaller mana nodes in each district. It'll help with defense, communication, and local energy supply."
Rynor grinned. "Finally, I get to train them properly."
Within weeks, Frostwind began transforming. New roads connected districts. Guard towers sprouted along mountain passes. Small markets reopened under strict supervision. Local officials were trained personally by Arin's core team.
Kael managed intelligence networks across the province, ensuring that any subversive activity or smuggling was reported immediately.
Meanwhile, Arin personally led training sessions. Not just for soldiers, but also for gifted citizens. Children and young adults with potential were identified and assigned mentors. He wanted Frostwind's future to be strong—not just militarily, but economically and politically.
One afternoon, Lyra approached him with a faint smile.
"My lord, I've located rare mana deposits under the western ridge. If mined carefully, it could double our energy output."
Arin nodded. "Good. Begin preparations."
That night, Arin stood on the balcony of the main fortress, looking at the snow-covered land.
"Two territories," he thought. "Trevik and Frostwind. They call me a prince of the weak. Soon… they'll see otherwise."
Kael appeared beside him.
"My lord, local nobles are beginning to respect you. Some even ask for guidance."
Arin's lips curved slightly. "Respect earned, not bought."
Far away, in the imperial capital, whispers spread among nobles.
"The Sixth Prince…" they murmured. "He's no longer insignificant."
And in the darkness, the hooded figure watched once more, eyes glowing faintly.
"He's building a dynasty," the figure whispered. "But every dynasty attracts predators. Phase two begins soon."