Ranking System

[Third-Person POV]

The news of Gontz's swift takeover in just an hour sent shockwaves through the neighboring nations.

Such a rapid conquest was unheard of, marking it a historic achievement. It became abundantly clear to all discerning minds that Chrome, with its newfound might, was now a force to be reckoned with more than ever before.

Details about Charles were scarce and highly sought-after. For many, their knowledge of him was rooted in hushed whispers and rumors. Among those tales, the predominant narrative painted him as a ruthless lord, driven by his insatiable desires and willing to go to any length to fulfill them.

Etellia, which had breached its agreement with Charles, was deeply alarmed. If the stories of his severe nature were true, the war declaration might only signal the start of their worries.

On the other hand, Riona, which shared a border with Gontz, became increasingly wary of this rising leader. Despite Gontz's potential waning might, Riona understood the looming challenge of contending with this new force for control over the mine.

Eurgesh, another nation, plotted a renewed assault on the city of Chrome. Having an informant within the city's walls, they were tipped off about the troops being dispatched to distant locations.

Although the news had spread far and wide, the forces heading towards Chrome weren't fully informed.

Their assumption was that the troops from Chrome would remain in Gontz, perhaps celebrating their victory or engaging in some festivity.

The citizens of Gontz were engulfed in uncertainty. With their nation's fall, they wondered about their future. The unpredictability of their impending fate filled them with anxiety and dread.

"Everyone! Go to the city square! The lord of the opposing sides wants to make an announcement." The soldiers dispatched throughout the city relayed this message to every citizen.

Upon hearing this, the inhabitants of Gontz swiftly made their way to the city square in anticipation. The air was thick with curiosity as everyone eagerly awaited the arrival and proclamation of this new lord.

Within minutes, the crowd's patience began to wane. But then, with an authoritative presence, Charles made his entrance, immediately capturing the gaze of all present.

For a single individual, the ability to command such attention effortlessly was truly remarkable. Even more astonishing was the silence he induced without even intending to.

Upon reaching his destination, Charles positioned himself atop the city square's podium, casting a discerning gaze over the multitude below.

"Let me first introduce myself before addressing the state of affairs," Charles began with measured calmness. "I am Charles Anderson, the lord of Chrome and now the new ruler of Gontz."

"Rumors have circulated that Chrome initiated an assault on Gontz and successfully took control. I can confirm that these rumors are accurate. This city is now under my dominion." His forthrightness was evident; he saw no reason to sugarcoat his words.

"I have no intentions of drastically harming your daily lives. Rest assured, there will be no hike in taxes or any unjust measures imposed upon you. At most, there should be change in the city's culture."

"For those who have lost loved ones and their properties, compensation will be provided. In a few hours, I will bring workers in from my nation, and I hope you will treat them as any other person."

Although the majority of the civilians listened and took in Charles' words, their resentment ran deep. Even with Charles' promise of compensation for their losses, it did little to quell some anger brewing within them.

For many of those seething with anger, they had suffered the irreplaceable loss of homes and loved ones, and no compensation could bring them back.

"Additionally, with Gontz now integrated into my territory, its inhabitants will experience fewer restrictions when entering or leaving the domain."

"Lastly, I foresee substantial trade exchanges between Chrome and Gontz. A cultural exchange, I believe, will be mutually beneficial. While some of you might be resistant to these changes initially, they are designed to enhance the quality and convenience of your lives." Charles stopped thereafter, saying what he needed to say.

Charles gracefully exited the podium without glancing at the crowd's reactions. As soon as he was out of sight, murmurs filled the air as the crowd began to discuss and speculate about their new ruler.

"Can you believe that? I was expecting some gruff barbarian based on the rumors. He seems more grounded than what the rumors  paint." A female citizen remarked, her gaze still fixed on the podium from which Charles had departed moments ago.

"Looks can be misleading. Sure, he's got charm, but remember how effortlessly he overpowered our city. People of his caliber shouldn't be provoked. Who knows how he'd retaliate if someone angers him?" Beside her stood a young man, appearing to be in his early twenties. A hint of jealousy was evident in his demeanor, but he was wise enough not to openly disparage Charles.

"I've never seen such a low rank before. I usually ignore the rankings since numbers tend to get inflated with the sheer population of this realm, but such a low figure is oddly pleasing to the eye."

"Seriously? Do you all buy into his words? Why even put these rules in place? After conquering us, I won't be shocked if he lets this place descend into anarchy."

The crowd's response to Charles' address was varied. While some felt he might govern justly, there were others who distrusted him deeply and wanted him gone.

Nevertheless, time will be the true judge of Charles's leadership. The perceptions and opinions of the citizens would inevitably evolve based on his future decisions and actions.

Following the announcement from the new lord, the crowd gradually dispersed, returning to their daily routines. Meanwhile, Charles began the process of opening a portal, intending to travel back to Chrome.

His responsibilities were vast, and with every day that passed, new challenges arose. It wasn't an easy path, but Charles was driven by a deeper purpose. He believed that achieving his goals would ultimately lead to contentment.