The morning in Frostwind was unusually quiet, a lull after the storm of battles and rival plots. Soldiers trained in the courtyards, but Arin found a moment to walk alongside his candidates in the palace gardens once more.
Elara adjusted her sleeve as they walked.
"Sixth Prince, the provinces remain stable thanks to your guidance, but… I must confess, I find myself checking on your welfare almost as much as I check on the troops."
Arin raised an eyebrow, a faint smile tugging at his lips.
"Is that so? And here I thought I was only responsible for strategy and defense."
Mira, carrying a folder of reports, tilted her head.
"Observation extends beyond mere data. Your safety and well-being affect the entire dynasty. Ensuring you remain… well, unharmed… is a natural concern."
Seren, laughing loudly, nudged Arin playfully.
"You two are way too subtle. Sixth Prince, I've been standing here all morning, and nobody noticed me feeling left out! Don't tell me I'm just here to cheer people on."
Arin chuckled softly, shaking his head.
"Your energy keeps us all sharp, Seren. And honestly… I would be lost without it."
Elara's soft smile and Mira's gentle gaze contrasted Seren's playful grin, and for the first time, Arin felt the weight of the emotional bonds he had built alongside the tactical ones.
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Candidate Emotional Bonds +18%]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Candidate Loyalty +12%]
Later, while reviewing provincial reports in the quiet library, Mira handed him a scroll. Their fingers brushed lightly—a fleeting, almost accidental moment, but both paused.
Elara, watching from nearby, gave a small, approving nod.
Seren rolled her eyes exaggeratedly.
"Whoa, whoa, Sixth Prince. Looks like someone's making sparks fly. Don't get distracted—we have armies to worry about, remember?"
Arin allowed himself a small smile, the warmth of subtle connection mingling with responsibility. Even amid looming threats, these quiet, teasing, affectionate moments reminded him of why he fought—not only for power or strategy, but for those who mattered most.
As night fell over Frostwind, the city glowed under lantern light. Soldiers rested, governors reported in, and the Sixth Prince sat quietly with his candidates. Laughter, subtle touches, teasing, and trust—all were threads weaving the dynasty's foundation, preparing Frostwind for battles and joys yet to come.