The imperial summons arrived without warning.
A golden-edged letter, sealed with the dragon emblem.
Only direct orders from the Emperor carried such authority.
Kelsin's hands trembled slightly as he passed it to Arin.
"This… is serious."
Arin broke the seal calmly.
Inside was a short message.
Prince Arin Eldoria,
Report to the Imperial Capital within thirty days.
— Emperor Valerius
No explanation.
No excuses allowed.
Silence filled the room.
Rynor spoke first. "This could be dangerous."
Selene nodded. "The capital is full of enemies."
Lyra added, "And powerful experts."
Arin folded the letter carefully.
"It was inevitable," he said. "If I kept growing, he would notice."
Preparations began immediately.
A diplomatic convoy was arranged.
Elite guards selected.
Documents organized.
Kael memorized regional data.
Before departure, Arin toured Blackridge and Trevik one last time.
He visited farms.
Training camps.
Workshops.
Hospitals.
He encouraged people personally.
"Trust us," he said. "We'll protect this land."
The citizens bowed deeply.
Some cried.
To them, Arin was no longer just a prince.
He was their lord.
Three weeks later, the convoy reached the capital.
Imperial City – Aurelion.
A city of marble towers, floating mana platforms, and ancient walls reinforced by Grand Archmages.
Thousands of soldiers patrolled.
Nobles filled the streets.
Power radiated everywhere.
Even Rynor felt pressure.
"So this is the center," he muttered.
At the palace gate, officials received them.
"Prince Arin, follow us."
They were led through countless halls until reaching the Dragon Audience Chamber.
The emperor sat upon a throne of golden crystal.
Tall.
Calm.
Eyes like still water.
Valerius Eldoria.
Grandmaster Swordsman.
Grand Archmage.
Supreme ruler.
Arin knelt respectfully.
"Greetings, Father."
Valerius studied him silently.
Long.
Uncomfortable.
Then he spoke.
"You've done well."
Gasps echoed.
Praise from the Emperor was rare.
"You stabilized two territories. Improved trade. Suppressed corruption. Expanded influence."
Valerius leaned forward.
"But tell me… what do you want?"
Arin raised his head.
"I want a realm where strength protects the people."
Silence.
Then the emperor laughed softly.
"Good answer."
But his eyes remained sharp.
"Let's see if you deserve it."
The system pulsed.
[SYSTEM PROMPT: Imperial Trial Triggered]
[SYSTEM PROMPT: High-Level Destiny Event Activated]
Arin felt pressure descend.
The real test…
Had begun.