Though the square held merely over two thousand people, its scale rivaled the massive rallies of later generations. Roland marveled inwardly at how remarkably effective the echo technology was.
The selection of these individuals primarily aims to set an example for the people. None of the three are Nobles: Iron Axe is a Sandfolk from the Southern Lands; Kaimo, though the Chief Alchemist, comes from an unremarkable background and rose through the ranks from apprentice; and Nana Wa is a Witch.
With foreign elements, commoners, and witches—by today's standards, it's downright politically correct.
Through this ceremony, Roland aims to instill his philosophy in all residents: Border Town values merit over lineage.
The first to receive the honor was Iron Axe. Roland personally presented him with a golden medal bearing the Graycastle Tower emblem, gears, and a wheat ear border. The First Army soldiers in the audience raised their hands in applause, and many whistled in celebration.
"You must all know his name—the First Musketeers 'commander, Iron Axe!" Roland turned to the crowd. "Before the Demon's Moon arrived, he was just an ordinary hunter in the town. He never missed a single battle in Border Town's history, and just last month, he led the First Army to the capital to rescue refugees from the Eastern Frontier besieged by the Demon Plague! The six thousand settlers now sheltering outside the walls were all brought back by him!" The square was mostly filled with natives and First Army soldiers, with only a few hundred serfs and refugees. Yet, under Roland's incitement, the atmosphere was anything but cold. As he paused, the refugees 'cheers erupted in unison, their intensity rivaling the First Army's applause.
The Iron Axe was equally thrilled, probably never having imagined that as a Mojin, he could win Prince's favor. He first performed the military salute Roland had set, then knelt on one knee to pay the Knight's homage to the kingdom. Had Roland not steadied him, he might have gone on to perform the Sha people's five-body prostration.
"Get up, as a soldier, just give a military salute," Roland said with a laugh.
"Thank you... Your Highness," he said, his voice trembling as he struggled to contain his emotions.
Prince gave the iron axe a reassuring pat on the shoulder, handed him a hundred golden dragons, and then had Kaimoschuir step onto the stage.
"This is someone you may not recognize—his name is Mr.Kaimoschuir, the Chief Alchemist of the Alchemy Workshop in Chishui City, located in the central kingdom!" The words sent a chill through the populace.
"Chief Alchemist? Isn't that the very sage who commands respect even before the King?" "Just like royal astrologers?" "No, alchemists hold an even higher status. After all, no one can predict whether astrologers' prophecies will come true, while alchemists create tangible results." "And he's from the Crimson Waters City Alchemy Workshop! I heard only the Royal Alchemy Association can rival him!" "..." In the Four Great Kingdoms, alchemists and astrologers enjoy transcendent status. For commoners, these revered sages are more worthy of being passed down than nobles and lords. Roland was pleased with the crowd's reaction. He pressed down his hand and continued: "Though Mr.Shuir didn't personally participate in every battle, his chemical laboratory played a crucial role in improving muskets—from single-shot to rapid-fire models. This was key to the First Army's victories. Without these alchemical innovations, Border Town couldn't truly achieve peace and stability." Prince paused briefly. "By the way, the chemical laboratory is currently recruiting apprentice alchemists. Any citizen who completes basic education and passes the assessment can apply. Successful candidates will receive generous rewards and the chance to become an outstanding alchemist like Mr.Shuir!" The crowd erupted in renewed clamor. Kemo himself looked impatient. He took the medal and said irritably, "You summoned me for this very matter?" "What a waste of time! I could do more experiments." "This is a prime opportunity for promotion. Don't you always complain about the lack of staff?" Roland shrugged. "Once the lab doubles in size, I'll have 'Intermediate Chemistry' ready for you to teach." "Intermediate... chemistry?" Kemo immediately bowed. "Thank you, Your Highness!" While focus is crucial, nurturing successors is equally urgent. The larger the community, the more likely the project will succeed—this holds true for scientific research as well. Roland doesn't want to put all his eggs in one basket. With such a perfect promotional opportunity, he certainly wouldn't let it slip away.
The last one is Nana Wa.
As Roland watched the girl who had approached him, her nervousness was evident, and he couldn't help but feel deeply moved.
Unlike his evasive tactics during the Moonlight era, he now resolved to publicly present Witch. After nearly six months of groundwork, the town had reached its most favorable moment. Choosing Nana Wa as its representative was a deliberate decision: in the First Army, she was revered as an angel by soldiers, her prestige surpassed even Iron Axe's, ranking second only to himself. Many townspeople had also received her healing—whether from mining accidents or mechanical injuries, they had developed the habit of seeking treatment from the Little Angel whenever injured.
After watching the play "Witch Story" repeatedly, the serfs no longer resisted the witch as before. The heroine's tragic fate and courageous resistance won the sympathy of many.
The refugees survived solely because of Lily's powers. Even those who despised witches wouldn't speak ill of them after being rescued, let alone the fact that they weren't vulnerable individuals chased by the Church—especially in Border Town, where these women with extraordinary abilities were protected by Lord.
Most crucially, even if the Church's followers attempted to expose the truth, they would struggle to stir any significant unrest in the Western Frontier. The town was now entirely under their control, the church at Changge Fortress had been razed by Tifei Ke, and the Church had lost its stronghold for monitoring the Western Frontier. Unless they ventured further to the Dragon Falls and Red Water City, they would find no trace of the God officials under investigation.
"Who is this—" Before Roland could begin his introduction, thunderous cheers erupted across the square.
"Miss Nanawa! Miss Nanawa is here!" "Angel, thank you for healing my husband!" "Young lady, you must come to my house for dinner when you have time. I've raised two chickens specifically for this—perfect for steamed egg custard or stewed chicken soup!" "Nanawa is looking at me!" "No, she's actually looking at me!" Nanawa couldn't help covering her mouth, her eyes welling up with tears. Roland believed the other Witches felt the same—finally free from the evil identity imposed by the Church, they could now walk under the sun like ordinary people. Roland smiled and patted her head. "Don't worry, just respond to their enthusiasm. Remember, you're now the representative of the Witch Alliance." "Hmm..." She sniffed, wiped away her tears, and bowed. "Thank you... thank you all!" Chapter 0242: New Architectural Domain The first award ceremony lasted until noon. Roland, serving as the presenter, commentator, and host, stood exhausted at the end. Fortunately, the ceremony concluded perfectly with the noon bell and salutes. Drenched in sweat, he returned to the castle. As soon as he stepped onto the third floor, he saw Anna leaning against the office door with a smile.
"What's wrong?" "You'll find out when you go in." She blinked her beautiful lake-blue eyes.
It couldn't be some prank show, Roland thought, pushing the door open in confusion. He froze—twelve witches stood in two neat rows, with Shurian and Wendy leading the way. At Prince's appearance, they all lifted their skirts, knelt, and bowed in unison.
"Ahem, you're..." Shujuan spoke first. "Your Highness, your actions speak louder than words. Your sisters are deeply grateful for everything you've done. Our gratitude is beyond words, and we'll continue serving you." "I see," Roland sighed. "I thought you were all leaving." "Pfft," Wendy couldn't help laughing. "How could you? Your Highness, this is the holy mountain every Witch dreams of. As long as you don't drive us out, we hope to stay here forever." "That's exactly what I wanted to see..." "Actually, you don't need to be so formal. I'm helping you and myself at the same time. Don't be too serious—I prefer your relaxed demeanor." "Hmph, I told you to be less formal," Lily grunted. "Look, he still thinks we're too serious." "What's the matter? Didn't you just agree right away?" Muyue muttered. "Traitor!" "Alright, let's go to the dining room. Your Highness needs to change clothes," Shujuan said, resting his hand on his forehead. "By the way, Miss Anna mentioned you've been staying up late lately. Take care. Don't fall before the goal is achieved." "Don't worry," Roland smiled. "I'm in good health." After the witches left in formation, only he and Anna remained in the office.
"How, are you going to thank me too?" Roland teased her.
"Um... I mean the same thing as they do," Anna said with a smile, "No words can express my gratitude." "And... do you want to stay in Border Town forever?" "Not necessarily," Roland said, his heart pounding.