Although he had nothing to do with the Azarin Empire’s attack, and it was now clear that Orion was behind the appearance of those forces, it was still true that Vlad killed the angels and weakened the defenses of the Strong Hammer Military Base.
If people wanted to curse his name in the sorrow left behind by the death of a loved one, Vlad could accept it, but he needed to know who they were to keep an eye on them and ensure they would not interfere with the stability and growth of the kingdom.
"There was a considerable number who blamed you, my King, for the massacre at the Strong Hammer Military Base. But I already took care of that," Chief Councilor Aloz spoke in a calm voice, detailing every step of how he manipulated the information and shifted the focus of the survivors and soldiers of the Strong Hammer Military Base.
Aloz’s strategic approach to handling the situation was nothing short of masterful. He began by carefully gathering testimonies from the rescued soldiers, piecing together the chain of events that led to the attack. He discovered that the angels had invited the Azarin Empire forces, which he used to his advantage.
First, he spread the information that the angels had orchestrated the attack, painting them as the true villains; this was not entirely true, but it was close enough. This shift in narrative redirected the survivors’ anger away from Vlad and toward the deceased angels, who could not really defend themselves.
Next, Aloz intensified the vilification of the Azarin Empire. He ensured that every soldier and civilian knew about the atrocities committed by their forces. Detailed accounts of the massacre, the cruelty of the Azarin soldiers, and the bravery of Vlad and his Royal Guards were disseminated throughout the base. He highlighted the risks Vlad took to save as many lives as possible, along with the heroic sacrifice of Royal Guard Cazan.
Aloz also subtly reinforced the notion that Vlad’s actions, though controversial, were necessary for the greater good. He used public assemblies, discreet conversations, and strategically placed rumors to build this narrative. This multifaceted approach ensured that the majority saw Vlad as a hero who killed the angels for the greater good of humanity.
Finally, Aloz identified the dissenters, those who still blamed Vlad for the attack. He carefully monitored them, ensuring they were isolated and lacked the means to organize or spread their discontent. He used a combination of surveillance, strategic assignments to keep them busy, and psychological pressure to prevent potential uprisings.
The old ma knew that while dissent couldn’t be completely eradicated, it could be managed and contained. Killing those people would make them martyrs and incite hatred, so it was better just to keep them busy and too tired to do anything.
Aloz’s manipulation of information and his deep understanding of human psychology created a narrative that unified the survivors under Vlad’s leadership and redirected their anger toward their true enemies. This strategic brilliance not only stabilized the situation but also strengthened the cohesion and morale of Vlad’s forces.
The old man made it seem simple, but Vlad, Jormungandr, and Grand Marshal Anglius couldn’t help but gaze at him as if he were a monster. The way he was able to guide the masses was genuinely terrifying, demonstrating a deep and granular level of mass psychology that could do a lot of damage to an organization. The trio counted their lucky stars that he was on their side.
"You have done a great job, Chief Councilor Aloz. Keep working on improving the cohesion and integration of these people into the Xaos Kingdom. I want them to fully adapt to our norms and laws so they can contribute to the kingdom’s growth." Vlad smiled and nodded to the old man, making it clear how impressed he was with his abilities and dedication.
After that, Vlad turned toward Grand Marshal Anglius. "You will take the soldiers of the Strong Hammer Military Base that Chief Councilor Aloz has deemed no longer a threat and organize small military maneuvers around the Silent Wind Military Base, clearing all the monsters and demons you might find. Ensure they acclimate with the army and that there is no ill will among the military members."
Vlad’s eyes showed a sharp and solemn light as he emphasized the last point. The Strong Hammer Military Base had been considered an enemy fortress by the Xaos Kingdom’s military. While Grand Marshal Anglius made sure everybody knew their true enemies were the angels, it was easy for people to direct their anger toward all those living inside that place.
As the Xaos Kingdom grew and expanded, they were bound to clash with large organizations and powers. Unless they wanted to butcher every single soldier in them, they would have to learn how to adapt and make those old enemies into new friends.
Grand Marshal Anglius was, of course, aware of all that, and he performed a solemn nod. "I understand, my King. I will ensure an environment where cohesion and growth can be accomplished. There will not be bullying or denigration among my forces!"
Vlad could feel Grand Marshal Anglius’s resolution and knew the man could handle the task. "Good, both of you have your missions. I will call you again in a few days to grant you bloodlines to make your jobs much easier."
Grand Marshal Anglius and Chief Councilor Aloz couldn’t help but smile as they heard those words. Their Runic Sets had already granted them amazing abilities and helped them handle their responsibilities with excellent efficiency, no longer forcing them to overexert themselves, and they were sure the bloodlines would be just as incredible.
"My King, Lord," the duo clasped their hands and performed a deep bow toward Vlad and Jormungandr before leaving the underground level of the Xaos Tower.
After Grand Marshal Anglius and Chief Councilor Aloz left, a sense of coldness and immense brutality began to rise in Vlad’s eyes as he turned to the small yellow cat on his shoulder. "Jormungandr, how strong are your mind spells?"
The small yellow cat’s eyes narrowed as he focused on Vlad and spoke solemnly: "I should be able to overcome the brainwashing performed on those soldiers and gain access to the knowledge about the Goddess of the Azarin Empire."