Gundar looked at the young man with renewed awe and respect. Leone might not be a warrior, but the old shaman believed he had the makings of a good ruler. It was apparent from how the young lion truly cared for his people.
"For now, hide and sharpen your claws," Gundar advised. "When the representatives of the middle-rank tribes arrive, don't let them see your men training. Don't let them climb up this cliff. Don't let them see you're digging a tunnel through the mountains.
"Don't show them anything that will make them think you are a threat to their rule. Bide your time. And when you've become strong enough to oppose them, there will be nothing they can do about it.
"You are on the right path, but that path will be a thorny road filled with many challenges and dangers. If you want to become a king, you should know when to fight and when not to fight your battles. Diplomacy is also a way of fighting."
