The sun was already hot when I stepped out of the manor. New month, new season — Solara, the start of summer.
Natalia handed me a cup of tea. "You look more awake than usual."
"It's hard to sleep when half the town's reports pile up overnight," I said.
She smiled. "You wanted responsibility. Now you have a mountain of it."
"Yeah, yeah," I muttered, sipping the tea. "Let's just hope today's news isn't worse than yesterday's."
In the office, Oswin and Zevra were already going through documents.
"Morning," I said. "What's new?"
Oswin looked up. "Couple things. First — the war between Paale and Bermouth just started again."
Zevra didn't even look up from her papers. "Again? Didn't they fight last year too?"
"They fight every few years," I said, waving it off. "It's not our problem. They're too far to matter."
"Then we move on."
Oswin leaned closer with a grin. "Now for the second part — our little rumor is doing its job."
"Which one?" I asked.
"The bandits," he said. "Traders spread the word just right. Two nearby villages are already asking to join Orshek for protection."
Zevra raised an eyebrow. "You two actually went through with that rumor?"
"Worked, didn't it?" I said. "We need people. New hands, more workers, faster growth. Bandit fear just gives them a reason to join."
Oswin chuckled. "They think we're the safest place in the region now. Food, walls, guards — everything they don't have."
Zevra sighed. "You're both devious."
"Efficient," I corrected. "How many people are we talking about?"
"Two to three hundred," Oswin said. "Farmers, miners, woodcutters, carpenters, and hunters."
"Perfect," I said. "Oswin, handle settlement. Make sure they understand town laws and get temporary housing. Zevra, register them officially — citizens by next week."
"Got it," Zevra said, already writing notes.
Oswin stretched. "This will bump our population close to three thousand, maybe more."
"Exactly what we need before summer trade begins," I replied.
Zevra smirked. "You sound like you planned this from the start."
"I did," I said. "Every village that joins makes Orshek stronger."
A knock came on the door. A courier stepped in and bowed.
"A letter from the capital, my lord."
The room fell silent. I took it carefully. The royal seal was unmistakable.
Zevra frowned. "From the king?"
I broke the seal and read it aloud.
To Leonard Greyborne, Lord of Orshek,
News has reached the capital regarding the passing of Sir Garreth. His death is regrettable. Reports suggest it was caused by a lingering wound worsened by infection, though some claim bandits may have been involved. Whatever the case, it is a loss to the Crown and a reminder that even loyal knights are not immune to fate.
Should you find it necessary, you are permitted to appoint a replacement. A lord's safety and the order of his domain must never be left to chance. Choose one with experience and discipline — the realm has too few of such men these days.
Concerning Orshek, word of your progress has reached my council. I am told the settlement grows swiftly — new workshops, active trade, and organized labor. Some attribute this success to the financial support provided by Lady Cendralis Wildthorn. I trust that your progress is the result of sound governance, not merely borrowed fortune. The Crown appreciates results.
I also wish to inform you of matters concerning your kin.
Eldric continues his campaigns in the Principality of Pospia. His victories have secured multiple villages under our banner. Aurielle has increased maritime security, expanding the royal fleet and restoring safe passage through the southern trade routes. Kastor has begun development of a new city near Bolworth, supported by merchant guilds and noble investors. It will serve as a hub for weapon and goods production and will aid in strengthening the kingdom's defenses. Nymeria remains active in the academies, promoting scientific studies and cultural arts, and has overseen the expansion of the Royal University's archives.
The realm grows stronger through the diligence of its heirs. I expect you to contribute in kind. Orshek may be distant, but it remains part of the kingdom's heart.
Lastly, I request your presence in the capital on the anniversary of your mother's passing. The court will gather in remembrance, and your attendance is expected.
The Crown acknowledges your efforts. Continue proving that your leadership was not a misplaced gamble.
May the summer of Solara bring prosperity to you and your people.
— Alaric Greyborne, King of the Duchy of Greyhart
Leonard unfolded the letter carefully. The room fell silent as Oswin and Zevra watched.
Oswin exhaled, leaning against the desk. "Majestic seems to think the town's progress is thanks to the noble's coin, not your effort."
Zevra crossed her arms. "And yet his Majesty lists their achievements in detail. Eldric conquers villages, Aurielle secures trade, Kastor builds infrastructure, Nymeria advances science. All while subtly reminding you you're far away and… not enough."
Natalia, standing by the window, added softly: "He's neutral, not cruel. He's acknowledging what he sees, and letting you know he expects results. He's not insulting you outright — he's testing you."
Leonard leaned back in his chair. "Testing me. That's polite wording for 'prove you're not a failure.'"
Oswin smirked. "In the language of kings, yes. Politically, it's neutral — he's neither praising nor condemning directly. He's watching, measuring… evaluating."
"I remember in court, the king and other courtiers thought Leonard was a fool, so it's natural the king assumes Orshek's progress was due to Cendralis Wildthorn's gold," I said. "This works in our favor — others will suspect less, giving us more time to grow strong. We don't want unwanted attention."
Oswin smirked. "Clever. That way, you're free to act without the capital breathing down our necks."
Zevra crossed her arms. "Then what's the plan?"
Leonard folded the letter. "Simple. You each return to your duties. Oswin, ensure the new settlers are properly settled and integrated. Zevra, continue managing trade and registration. Natalia, keep the miners safe and production steady. I'll oversee overall progress and make sure the town grows without anyone noticing the true scale of our work."