Raylo's life remained calm on the surface, but only he and a few core members knew what kind of storm was brewing beneath the placid waters.
He continued to inspect the territory, handle administrative affairs, and would occasionally watch with great interest the spontaneous duels the Knights held in Knight Plaza.
His subjects saw a composed lord, full of confidence for the future, which put them at ease. Even the work chants from the construction sites seemed to ring out louder.
However, beneath this veneer of prosperity, an invisible net was slowly tightening.
Atop the castle's highest tower, Raylo stood leaning against the railing, his gaze sweeping past the bustling construction sites and into the distance.
On the stone table beside him lay a military defense map of Black Stone Territory, marked with several conspicuous crosses in red ink.
Master Barnaby's Alchemy Workshop had also received Raylo's orders.
