The Guardian gods-Chapter 242

Lord Greystone nodded in agreement. "We must tread carefully. If we reveal our inability to save the infected too soon, we risk losing the trust and cooperation of the people."

Jonas spoke up, his tone thoughtful. "What if we focus on finding a "cure"? We can present the quarantine zones as research and treatment centers, emphasizing our ongoing efforts to discover a way to neutralize the parasite. This way, we maintain hope and cooperation while buying ourselves time."

Erik looked around the room, seeing nods of agreement. "A sound strategy. We will frame the quarantines as part of a larger research initiative aimed at saving lives. This narrative will help maintain public trust and support."

Lady Althea sighed but nodded. "Very well. We will need to prepare our healers and researchers to support this narrative. They must be ready to explain the situation and manage the expectations of the families."

Sir Roland added, "We should also ensure that our security forces are trained to handle any unrest that may arise. If families become desperate, they might try to breach the quarantine zones."

Erik nodded, feeling the gravity of the situation. "Agreed. We will increase our security measures and prepare for any eventualities. But we must also ensure that our approach remains compassionate and humane."

Jonas looked at his father, determination in his eyes. "We need to act swiftly. The longer we wait, the more difficult it will be to control the situation."

"Indeed," Erik replied. "Let’s outline our immediate actions. First, we will initiate the kingdom-wide health check campaign under the guise of a new health protocol. Next, we will establish the quarantine zones as specialized treatment and research centers. Our healers and researchers will be briefed on the narrative we are presenting to the public."

He turned to Sir Roland. "Increase security around these centers and prepare your men for potential unrest. We must maintain order without resorting to unnecessary force."

Erik then addressed Lady Althea. "Work with our communication teams to develop a strategy for managing the narrative. We need to convey hope and progress, even as we face this dire threat."

Finally, he looked at Jonas. "You and I will oversee the implementation of these plans. We must be visible and proactive, showing our people that the royal family are committed to their safety and well-being."

The council members nodded to Erik’s words. Erik seeing everyone in agreement said "Now we all have come to an agreement, where should we use as the quarantine area"

"A place big enough to take in all those quarantined, ’’ Erik said as he looked around.

A lord who has been silent spoke up "I would like to offer my territory as a place of quarantine, it’s big enough to take in all those infected and since it’s developed, it will better convince our people that we really are trying to help them"

The room fell silent as everyone turned to the lord who had spoken. Lord Eldric, known for his vast and prosperous lands in the northern part of the kingdom, met their gazes with a determined look.

Erik considered his offer carefully. "Lord Eldric, your generosity is appreciated. Your territory is indeed well-suited for such an endeavor, both in size and infrastructure. Are you prepared for the potential risks this entails?"

Lord Eldric nodded solemnly "I understand and I am doing all this for my own selfish reason. My brother should have been in the one sitting in this seat but he unfortunately met his end with his family during Silas attack. Since we are planning of killing those dead, I want it to be done in the land my brother led"

Erik nodded "I am sorry for your loss" Looking at everyone, Erik said "Since lord Eldric has offered his place, we are responsible for the safety of those not infected, we are to make sure that they are led away safely from Eldric territory before we begin moving those found infected".

Lady Althea spoke up, her voice steady. "We need to organize an evacuation plan immediately. This will require the cooperation of local authorities and a clear communication strategy to avoid panic."

Sir Roland nodded in agreement. "I’ll dispatch my men to assist with the evacuation. We need to ensure that those leaving do so in an orderly manner."

Jonas added, "We should also provide temporary housing and support for those displaced. Ensuring their well-being will help maintain public trust."

Erik then addressed Lord Eldric. "Your leadership will be crucial during this transition. Your people will look to you for guidance and reassurance. Make sure they understand the necessity of these actions."

Lord Eldric bowed his head. "I will do my best to honor my brother’s memory and protect my people."

As the meeting concluded, Erik turned to Jonas. "You did well, my son. Your insights were invaluable."

Jonas smiled slightly, a look of determination in his eyes. "Thank you, Father. We will get through this together."

Erik nodded, placing a hand on Jonas’s shoulder. "Yes, we will. Now, let’s get to work. There’s much to be done."

a scout approached and bowed. "Your Majesty, the first group of evacuees is ready to depart from the outskirts of the capital."

Erik took a deep breath. "Very well. Let’s ensure their journey is safe and orderly. Lady Althea, please accompany the healers to oversee the relocation. Jonas, coordinate with the local authorities in the capital to manage any immediate concerns."

Lady Althea and Jonas both nodded and set off to their tasks. Erik watched them go, feeling a mixture of anxiety and determination. This was only the beginning, but the wheels were in motion.

Later that day, Erik joined the first convoy of evacuees at the city gates. He saw families clinging to one another, faces etched with worry and uncertainty. He approached a woman holding a small child and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

"We are doing everything we can to keep you safe," Erik said softly. "Your cooperation and bravery are vital to our efforts."

The woman nodded, tears in her eyes. "Thank you, Your Majesty. We trust you."

Erik hearing her word, clenched his fist hard as he showed her a smile before turning away, his steps heavy.

As the convoy began its journey, Erik mounted his horse, riding alongside Sir Roland at the head of the procession.

They traveled through the kingdom, passing through towns and villages where more evacuees joined the procession. At each stop, Erik spoke with the people, offering words of encouragement and reassurance. The presence of the royal family provided a beacon of hope amidst the uncertainty.

Finally, as they approached Lord Eldric’s territory, Erik saw the preparations in full swing. Temporary shelters were being erected, and healers were setting up their stations. Lord Eldric stood at the entrance, greeting the arrivals with a somber yet welcoming expression.

"Welcome to my lands," Lord Eldric said, his voice carrying over the crowd. "We are here to support you and find a way through this crisis together."

Erik dismounted and approached Lord Eldric. "Your leadership is invaluable, Lord Eldric. Together, we will see this through."

Lord Eldric nodded. "For my brother and for our kingdom."

In the same continent, Silas who has been healing up since his encounter with Ursula can be disguised walking around his whole territory.

Ashes can be seen trailing behind him with each step he takes, moving like living things and seeping into the earth, leaving no trace.

Crepuscular, who was paying attention from his realm, sees something different with his divine eyes. Silas’s walk around his territory isn’t random but deliberate.

Almost like he was drawing something on the ground, "A magic circle?" Crepuscular thought to himself in confusion.

"What does he plan on doing with a magic circle that big?" Silas’s territory, while not as big as Erik’s, was still large, so a magic circle this size isn’t a good thing, no matter how you look at it.

Every time Silas took a step, he muttered something. This went on for days. With Silas’s speed, he walked all the way back to his capital city.

The site where his previous home stood had become a place that aroused greed in those who saw it from afar only to be disappointed once they got closer. After the fire burned out, it turned the scorched land into glass.

It looked like a diamond mine as the sun rays shone down, sending out glitters. Above the hole was the new floating home of Silas.

The door to the castle opened before closing again as he walked inside. Before the door closed completely, Silas looked back at the sky, where the sun was still shining bright.

"Not yet," he said as he walked further into the castle, filled with purple-colored flames acting as a source of light. Sitting on his throne in silence, Silas smirked evilly.

"The young elf has grown up. It is quite the right time and moment to savor this dish that has been cooking for a long time," Silas said out loud to the empty palace.

He knew it was only a matter of time before his method was figured out after he noticed how the harpies were helping Erik. Fast forward to last week, he began noticing movement among his puppets.