General Anglius was also surprised by the old man’s composure. There was no hesitation or doubt in his words. He did not try to use tricks but explained his reasons clearly and humbly, acknowledging his limitations and respecting greater power.
No matter how you looked at him, Alonz was clearly a trained diplomat and someone who could be very helpful in the next phase of their plans.
The middle-aged general turned toward Vlad, and upon seeing the young man nod and smile, his imposing aura relaxed, and a friendly expression appeared on his face. "Sir Alonz, there is no need to worry. Your actions are not considered an insult to our King. In fact, we need someone like you in the next phase of building our kingdom, and we are willing to give you a meaningful position and authority."
Alonz’s eyes widened as he heard these words. Seeing the young man who was supposed to be their King smiling at him, all the worries that had weighed on his shoulders began to fade. However, it did not take long before a sharp light appeared in his eyes, and he spoke in a serious voice. "Could I know more about what the next phase would entail and what is expected of me? Specifically, what are the challenges we will face and how do we plan to overcome them?’
Vlad’s smile widened as he heard those words. The old man was not rash, nor did he lose himself in the glamor of power. He asked what type of responsibilities the new position would entail before anything else.
"Soon, we will start a massive rescue operation, sending our soldiers to different towns and rescuing as many people as possible," Vlad said, standing up and walking toward the old man, looking into his eyes as he explained their goal.
"As our numbers grow, a clear set of rules and government must arise. I will be the head of state, the King, and while my word will be final, there are much better uses of my time than attending meetings or managing daily affairs. General Anglius will become the Grand Marshal and control the military, security, and defense. But that leaves civilian matters such as education, infrastructure, community, foreign relations, and so on." Vlad’s voice had a profound meaning and intent as he explained his goals. While military power was crucial in a world full of enemies, it was not all that mattered.
Civilians could not be tossed aside, left useless and without value. Doing so would waste potential and weaken any organization’s foundation.
A meaningful light appeared in the old man’s eyes as the thrill of purpose filled his heart with excitement upon hearing Vlad’s words and intent. A goal, something to strive for, was crucial for a man, and what could be more exciting than becoming one of the first pillars of a new civilization?
Although his last position was that of a councilman in a small town, the truth was that in his youth, Alonz was part of the senate of Constantine Country. Back then, he was an incredibly influential figure, but his passion waned due to the state of politics in the country, where arguing with the other side became more important than helping the people.
Those years had weakened his ambition and drive, but now, in this world full of chaos, that flame started to burn again. The old man smiled before performing a deep bow. "I understand, Your Highness. I am willing to offer the full range of my ability for the growth and safety of the Xaos Kingdom."
Vlad smiled before waving his hand, making a metallic tablet and seven black gems appear. "From now on, you are the Chief Councilor of the Xaos Kingdom. This is a memory tablet with information detailing all I expect from you and guidance on achieving those goals. As for the black gems, they are communication artifacts, similar to the phones of the old world. They allow for instant communication between key members of the kingdom, ensuring efficient coordination and decision-making.’
Alonz was a little confused by the metallic tablet and black gems as they did not seem like anything he had seen before. However, the moment he focused on the memory tablet, a wave of information appeared in his mind, like a book.
The old man was shocked by such a surreal experience and could not help but go through the information. Immediately, a sense of awe filled his heart as the information and guidance were impressive, making him look at the young man in front of him as if he were a monster.
He had never doubted Vlad’s courage and power, as he had seen it clearly when the young man saved Good Side Town. But governance was something entirely different.
One could be an epic general and warrior, leading soldiers across dangerous terrain and defeating every enemy in their path. However, ensuring a kingdom would prosper and rise on its own was entirely different.
The information on the tablet was so detailed and precise that even a fool could use it. Alonz couldn’t help but feel awe at Vlad’s governance skills, which were superior to those of even some presidents. His admiration for Vlad’s abilities was clear, and everybody could see it.
Vlad couldn’t help but show an awkward smile as he saw the way the old man was looking at him. The truth was that the kingdom guide in that memory tablet was generated by the A.I. Chip. Of course, he would not reveal that and took the credit instead.
"I think everything is in order now. You two have your missions, and I will leave you to discuss them. You can contact me through the communication gems if there is any conflict between your goals or need help."
Now that a Grand Marshal and Chief Councilor were declared, Vlad could focus his time on the things that only he could do, pushing this small kingdom of less than one thousand people to become a force that would rise over the country.