C-06: An Announcement

Morning came in a flash. Morning rituals were done, breakfast was eaten, tea was drunk, and I'm back at my desk reading the report of the Hassan.

It seems that my thoughts were right. The people in the city couldn't wait to leave. The only reason most haven't is because no lord would accept runaways and refugees. Though that didn't deter some courageous one to venture into parts unknown.

I rang the bell and Marcus appeared. "Marcus, gather the twonsfolk. I have an announcement to make this noon."

"Very well, Master Elric." Marcus bowed and left.

"System, can I summon units away from me?"

(Yes)

"Then summon the Dai Li and the Battlemages outside. Make it look they arrived in the city from far away."

As I've read last night, the Battlemages have a mass teleport spell in their arsenal but it takes a long time to cast.

The Hassan can also convey information instantly between bodies I can use them in tandem to make a large information network.

Time passes by and I found myself standing in front of hundreds of people. I may call it a city but it's more of a large town with less than a thousand inhabitants.

"Citizens of Everfield, as you have known, the monster wave will be upon us in less than two weeks!"

At my words murmurs broke out in the crowd.

"Furthermore, we have no walls to protect our city! No army to fight! No gold to spend!"

The chattering becomes louder. I raised my hand and the crown immediately went silent.

"Everything points to the destruction of this town but I have a plan! Those who want to leave, I give you permission! Those who want to stay and put their trust in me, you can stay! Those who wish to leave will be given 50 gold coins, those who stay will be given land and riches once the monster wave is over!"

At my words, the people became exited. Ten gold is can feed them for a decade. I have no doubts that everyone will leave. Once they do, I can proceed with my plan.

I don't need citizens who won't listen to me. I don't need dissidents who will challenge my authority. I can get my people from the system, who's loyalty to me is unwavering.

I have trust issues, I know.

As expected, my coffers were 3,920 Gold lighter and the town was barren by nightfall save for the Dai Li and Battlemages who took residence in the abandoned buildings.

"Was it a wise choice, Master Elric?" Marcus asked.

"Yes. They're used to not paying taxes. Once I start again, they will resist harder. I don't need useless people." I replied.

"Hmm... Will we be also vacating the territory?" Marcus asked.

"No. We'll hold ground. If we leave, the other Lords will descend like vultures and pick off what remaining land we have." I answered. "In a few days, a small army will arrive. When the wave starts, I'm confident we can defend this city."

"I won't ask where you found an army, or the Ruld," Marcus said. "But I'm overjoyed that you decided to defend what remaining land your grandfather has."

"I might not have much memories about grandfather, but those I have are filled with joy. I owe it to him." I said as I looked outside the window where the Wisp danced around the large tree in the courtyard.