Chapter 190: Assimilating people
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.