Chapter 14: Propaganda and Illusions

The late morning sunlight streamed through the grand windows of my office. I, Lord Valerius Thorn, stood leaning against the polished mahogany desk, sipping an exquisite red wine from a finely cut crystal goblet, satisfaction curling at the edges of my lips. In my other hand, I held the prototype of a new enchanted announcement plaque that Malchor had just presented.

The plaque displayed a mesmerizing moving image: a lush, green forest gradually transforming into a thriving city. Sturdy stone buildings rose in place of trees, roads paved with fine stone expanded gracefully, and well-dressed citizens beamed with contentment. Bustling marketplaces brimmed with goods, a massive textile mill powered by water magic whirred in the background, and a rustic family received a new, well-built wooden home—one that promised security and prosperity. As the vision unfolded, golden letters shimmered into existence, forming the slogan I had personally devised:

"From the Whispering Forest to a New Era of Prosperity—A Development Project for the Kingdom's Future, by Lord Valerius Thorn."

I nodded approvingly. "Magnificent, Malchor. This illusion is remarkably convincing, a perfect instrument for inspiring hope. The simple-minded masses will surely be enthralled by the bright future we are showing them."

"Indeed, my lord." Malchor bowed slightly, a thin, icy smile on his pale face. "The illusionary magic woven into these images is laced with subtle persuasion enchantments—just enough to guide those who see it, helping them overlook any minor doubts that may arise."

"Excellent," I said. "Order the production of these enchanted plaques in great numbers. Have them installed in the main squares across the capital and dispatched to the major towns as well. Ensure that every citizen sees the glorious progress I am about to bestow upon them."

I strode back to my chair, setting down my wine glass. "And what of the 'information' I ordered to be disseminated?"

"It proceeds as planned, my lord," Malchor reported smoothly. "The latest issue of The Arcane Gazette features an article on 'Radical Nature Worshippers'—a group of extremists attempting to obstruct national progress for their own misguided beliefs. Though the article does not mention Lady Meadowlight by name, it strongly implies her involvement."

"As for the Stonehand boy," Malchor continued, "we've spread rumors through our informants in the taverns and marketplaces that the incident last night was nothing more than a drunken brawl or the work of debt collectors he had angered due to gambling. Additionally, we've seeded a more intricate rumor—that he might be receiving financial support from our northern enemies, seeking to stir unrest within our kingdom."

A chuckle rumbled from my throat. "Brilliant! Contradictory rumors will only deepen public confusion. When people don't know what to believe, they will choose the simplest narrative—or the one that aligns with the image of the 'visionary leader' we have carefully crafted for them."

I swirled the wine in my goblet, watching the deep crimson hues catch the flickering candlelight. "Control of information is the true power, Malchor. Not swords, not destructive magic, but the ability to shape thoughts, beliefs, and fears."

"But… my lord," Malchor hesitated briefly. "There are reports that Lady Meadowlight continues to act despite our pressure and defamation. She persists in gathering evidence and researching the 'Core of the Wilds.' And as for the Stonehand boy… if anything, the attack on him has emboldened him. Some townsfolk have begun to sympathize with him more after the incident."

My brow furrowed slightly, my earlier satisfaction dimming. "Persistent vermin," I muttered. "No matter. Our plan moves forward. The enchanted plaques and the rumors will steadily erode their credibility in the eyes of the majority."

I gazed out the window, where the spires of the Grand Cathedral pierced the sky. "Soon, the great ritual will commence. Once we claim control over the Core of the Wilds, true power will be in my hands. By then, the feeble protests of these fools will be nothing but whispers lost in the wind."

Turning back to Malchor, I issued my final command. "Keep watch over them. Do not let them out of your sight. And if necessary… prepare for 'decisive measures.' But for now, let our propaganda and illusions do their work. Let the people revel in the beautiful dream we have painted for them—until the moment they wake to the truth…"

A cold smile stretched across my lips as I raised my glass once more.

The glorious future awaited.

And nothing would stand in its way.