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Chapter 6 - Chapter 6: The Rise of Naravoss Mantear

Months after securing his noble title, Lord Naravoss Mantear had significantly expanded his trade network, stretching his commercial tendrils to four great cities: Caemlyn, Tar Valon, Tear, and Ebou Dar. Utilizing Saidin with discreet precision, along with his burgeoning intelligence network, his wealth began to rise dramatically.

In Caemlyn, his investments reshaped the city's infrastructure. Lord Mantear commissioned the construction of a new military academy, public schools, and numerous workshops and warehouses. His acquisition of extensive farmlands on the outskirts of the city not only boosted his agricultural holdings but also solidified his status as a benefactor of the people and a pillar of the realm.

During his rise, Lord Mantear had identified over a hundred Darkfriends—secret adherents to the Shadow, serving various Forsaken. The Forsaken, once leaders in the Age of Legends, had turned to the Shadow during the War of Power, becoming commanders of the Dark One's forces. Now, reborn into the world, they sought to establish bases of power, manipulating events and people to their will.

Infiltrating their networks proved easier than expected for Lord Mantear. His agents, compelled to unwavering loyalty, penetrated these circles with ease. The hard part was maintaining his facade and determining which Forsaken might choose Andor as their playground. Yet, there was no rush; his position allowed him the luxury of patience.

With his increasing wealth and influence, recognition from the throne was inevitable. Summoned by Queen Morgase, Lord Mantear approached the royal audience with his characteristic blend of confidence and calculated humility.

"Lord Mantear, your endeavors have brought much prosperity to our lands," Queen Morgase commended, her voice echoing in the opulent throne room. "Your investments in our military and education systems have not gone unnoticed."

With a graceful nod, Lord Mantear responded, "Your Majesty, it is my greatest honor to serve Andor and contribute to its enduring legacy."

Impressed by his dedication, Queen Morgase elevated his noble rank. "Henceforth, you shall be known as the Duke of North Caemlyn, a title befitting your contributions."

Noble ranks in Andor were clearly defined, ranging from Lords of minor estates to Dukes who controlled vast lands and held great influence in the royal court. As a Duke, Naravoss now stood among the highest echelons of society, his counsel sought by many and his favor courted by all.

Accepting congratulations from various houses, Lord Mantear's mind was already weaving new plans. His eyes, always watching, missed nothing—a flicker of envy here, a concealed dagger there.

"Ah, to be loved by so many," he mused sarcastically to a nearby lord, "and yet, I sleep so soundly at night!"

With his elevated status, Lord Mantear wasted no time in expanding his spy network beyond Andor's borders. Compelled spies were now placed in strategic positions across neighboring cities, their reports flowing back to him like tributaries feeding a great river of information.

Nodding to himself in satisfaction, Lord Mantear retreated to the privacy of his estate. Behind a facade of opulence, hidden doors and secret passages led to a basement where the true source of his power lay concealed.

Within this secluded sanctum, Lord Mantear practiced the art of channeling Saidin, the male half of the One Power. Here, away from prying eyes, he could fully unleash his abilities, weaving complex flows of Air, Earth, Fire, Water, and Spirit.

He practiced the Weave of Fireballs, sending bursts of flame across the room, and the Shielding Weave, which could block another from accessing the One Power. He honed the Delving Weave, used to sense the physical condition of another, and experimented with Compulsion, subtly bending others' wills to his own.

The Healing Weave, though less often used, was perfected to maintain appearances; the Mask of Mirrors, altering his appearance at will; and the Warding Weave, protecting his secrets with invisible barriers no ordinary man could cross.

"The versatility of Saidin," he chuckled to himself, "makes even the most intricate dances at court seem like clumsy stomps at a farmer's gathering."

Twelve weaves in total, each mastered to perfection, ensured that Lord Mantear was not just a political powerhouse but also one of the most formidable channelers of his age.

As he stood amidst the remnants of his latest practice session, Lord Mantear reflected on his journey—from a calculated usurper of a noble title to a Duke with unmatched influence and power. His gaze hardened as he looked towards the future, a future where he would not just play the game, but dominate it entirely.

"And so, the board is set," he whispered, his voice echoing off the stone walls. "And I hold all the pieces."