Return to the Red Palace (4)
"First, tell me about the current situation in the city," Erik said. "How is the situation Volkov's forces are?"
Principal Van Dyke stroked his chin. "Volkov's power seems secure for now," he said.
"He controls the government, the military, and the city guard. But beneath the surface, there's a simmering discontent. "
"How did he consolidate his power despite your presence? "
Van Dyke sighed. The man did a lot, but for sure most of his success was because of the blackguards.
"Volkov used a combination of tactics. He silenced any dissenting voices in the media, labeling them traitors and fear-mongers. Public gatherings were banned, and anyone caught speaking out against the regime faced harsh consequences—imprisonment, exile, even worse, knowing his taste. "