Spring sunlight warmed the training grounds of Frostwind. Soldiers and mages practiced drills in precise coordination, but today Arin had a different purpose.
Kael approached, holding a scroll of plans.
"My lord, I have designed exercises for the candidates. They will test combat skills, magical aptitude, and teamwork under pressure. Observation will reveal their potential for both army integration and governance roles."
Arin nodded.
"Good. Let them show not just ability, but judgment. The dynasty requires talent, loyalty, and initiative."
The three candidates—Elara Veyris, Mira Solen, and Seren Althar—stood at attention. Their eyes gleamed with anticipation.
Arin addressed them calmly:
"You will lead a squad in a simulated mission. Your task: secure a location, protect civilians, and respond to unexpected threats. Success depends on strategy, coordination, and adaptability. Casual mistakes will be noted."
Kael stepped aside as the exercise began.
Elara moved her squad with quiet authority. Every command was precise. She combined swordsmanship with elemental magic, creating barriers while coordinating attacks. Her calm, analytical mind ensured that her squad reacted efficiently to simulated ambushes.
Mira orchestrated magical shields and traps, predicting enemy movements before they happened. Her strategic insight allowed her to coordinate squads at a distance, optimizing resources and ensuring minimal risk to civilians. Her calm demeanor inspired confidence.
Seren acted on instinct, her reflexes and swordsmanship unmatched. She darted through the battlefield, neutralizing threats with precision and daring. Her raw courage motivated her squad, but sometimes her impulsiveness created minor risk—yet her ability to recover quickly impressed Arin.
The system quietly updated:
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Elara Veyris – Potential Loyalty +10%, Leadership +12%, Combat Efficiency +10%]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Mira Solen – Strategic Insight +15%, Magic Control +12%, Team Coordination +10%]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Seren Althar – Reflexes +15%, Combat Skill +12%, Morale Influence +10%]
Arin observed silently from the tower balcony, noting their strengths and weaknesses. He appreciated Elara's discipline, Mira's foresight, and Seren's courage.
After the exercise, Arin descended to the training grounds.
"You have performed well. Talent is not enough—judgment, loyalty, and cooperation are equally important. Those who excel will find their place within Frostwind's inner circle."
Elara bowed respectfully.
"My lord, I will continue to prove myself."
Mira's calm gaze met his.
"Observation is valuable. I intend to remain of use to Frostwind, and to you."
Seren's fiery smile lit her face.
"Sixth Prince, I will not fail, and I will fight alongside your soldiers if you allow it. I live to improve and protect."
Rynor smirked beside Arin.
"Looks like your dynasty's foundation isn't just power—it's talent, loyalty, and maybe… a bit of charm."
Arin allowed a faint smile.
"Indeed. The dynasty is built not just with armies, but with people of exceptional skill and trust. We cultivate strength, loyalty, and—over time—bonds that will shape generations."
Outside, Frostwind continued its rhythm: soldiers drilled, merchants traded, and citizens thrived. But within the walls, the seeds of a new era had been planted—one where talent, loyalty, and personal alliances would intertwine to create the foundation of a rising dynasty.
The Sixth Prince was no longer merely expanding his territory—he was shaping the people who would stand beside him in both war and governance