The Choice of President

Day fourteen.

The wind and waves remain turbulent.

The turmoil on the twelfth day was escalating.

On that day, Norman, the former governor of the Azure Waves Province, went to the Sound of the Tide Manor to beg for forgiveness, bowing three times and kowtowing once every three steps. Then, drones flew over the city and loudspeakers broadcasted in real time that the former and current rulers of the Distant Harbor were performing a comedy routine for the people of the city.

This play is titled "Mr. Kang Angrily Rebukes the Former Governor of Distant Harbor".

Those sharp words and harsh pronouncements were like a cold wind, blowing through the hearts of all the wealthy and powerful people in the Distant Harbor who harbored any hope of survival, making them feel a deep sense of despair.

This also allowed all the citizens of the Distant Harbor to hear, to hear His Highness Kang De's anger.

But nothing happened.

Most people were simply moved and grateful, but this feeling of being moved and grateful was no different from the feeling they had when they heard the governor "petition for the peaceful life of innocent citizens."

They are still a very, very long way from waking up.

Many people will never truly wake up in their lifetime.

But like a farmer, regardless of the weather this season, regardless of the harvest this year...

--Sows must always be made.

There may be pests, droughts, cold waves, storms, and heavy rains. Even if the ears of fruit ripen, the fruit may not all be good. The future is unknown, and the results of hard work and labor may not be satisfactory, but at least one thing is certain.

That is... the land is fertile.

All the farmer has to do is carefully water and fertilize the plants, protect them from pests, and pray silently.

--After hearing the final ultimatum, some nobles went mad and became ruthless. On that day, they attempted to create chaos in the city, set fires, and injure people, before trying to escape.

But they knew nothing of true power. With the Inquisition as an aid, Horus, through the information platform of the Knight Astolfo and a large number of information receivers, had already completed a degree of cyberization of the Distant Harbor city. The Big Brother's watchful deterrence had been initially established.

Two minutes after the arson occurred, the two dragons took off and arrived at the scene in twenty-three seconds. They used their powerful Magic Power to draw away a large amount of the local air element, instantly extinguishing the fire. The Traitor Suppression Society's rapid response team arrived later and used life detection spells to search for suspects hiding nearby. Horus used drones to scan faces and identify the criminals at an extremely fast speed.

Alset, who had been given the title "The Scourger" by Kang De, had already submitted his pledge of allegiance on the eighth day. At this time, as the chief interrogation expert of the Traitor Suppression Society, he tortured the arsonists.

Even though the instigators hid and concealed their orders to the greatest extent possible through layers of relaying commands, they were completely unaware of the power of big data.

Horus's drones have been roaming the streets for over ten days, specifically registering people without registered ID cards. Unless the mastermind planned to pull off a heist over ten days ago and specifically hired some private soldiers to hide in their mansions and castles for over ten days to prevent them from leaving, this level of separation and concealment is meaningless in the face of the computing power of artificial intelligence.

Horus identified several arsonists in milliseconds, retrieved the records from that time, checked the people who had been in contact with him in the area, and summoned them overnight to confirm their identities. He investigated layer by layer, uncovering clues along the way, and finally locked onto the suspects' identities.

Upon investigation, it was confirmed that they had indeed fled.

Since Brother Kang was watching the vicinity of the home of every powerful figure involved in the case, they must have used a covert method to escape. We continued our search along this line of thought.

They successfully intercepted the nobles involved in the case who were attempting to escape in several separate groups.

It took three hours and eighteen minutes.

During this period, big data networks, advanced artificial intelligence, the Skynet system, the Dragon Clan Air Service Corps, various departments of the Inquisition Traitor Suppression Society, the naval fleets of the three countries, and the Rangers of the Survey Corps were utilized.

Subsequently, Kang De signed the order to exterminate his entire family.

Another Goth noble family with a long history and rich heritage was uprooted, stripped of all honors and titles, abolished, all wealth, property and reputation were taken back, bloodlines were severed, and all records were erased.

Around 11 p. m. that night, all the powerful and influential people under house arrest in the Distant Harbor were visited by the Traitor Suppression Society to verify their identities, and then His Highness Kang De's decision on the traitors and the punishment plan were read out.

The entire disciplinary program lasts for one year.

The death penalty was carried out immediately, followed by a months-long investigation into the defendant's assets and property.

And finally... the Operation Annihilation.

"Erase all records and traces of the Garcia family in Distant Harbor, destroy related books, level the family cemetery, rename bridges, parks, and buildings named after them, and prohibit public mention of them. Over a year, ensure that the citizens of Distant Harbor completely forget this selfish, cold-blooded, insane, and hateful degenerate group, turning their rotten names into obscure words uttered only by a few equally rotten nobles."

"The Inquisition will pursue and liquidate the collateral branches of the Garcia family within Goth within one year, until they relinquish their titles, surnames, and all wealth, land, and property acquired in the name of Garcia, or face complete physical and spiritual annihilation."

"From this day forward, anyone who dares to act in the name of Distant Harbor Garcia, or in accordance with his bloodline and surname, is an enemy of Kang De, and will fight to the death. All those who are friends with him are enemies of Kang De, and will be exterminated."

Few of the powerful and influential could remain steadfast after hearing all the decisions made.

Because the Suppressors of Rebellion also read His Highness Kang De's admonition to all the listeners.

I have something to tell you.

"I killed their entire family, even scattered the ashes of their ancestors, not because they tried to escape, nor because they still resisted me, but because they didn't take what I said today to heart."

"What I said to Norman is also what I said to you. I told you that if you continue to ignore the suffering of ordinary people and even use them as tools to achieve your goals, then I will make you pay the heaviest price. He didn't understand, and even dared to set fires, kill people, create chaos, and harm innocent people in the city. Then I will let these noble lords know just how cheap their lives really are."

"All I'm asking are you to treat them like human beings. If you can't even do that, what's the point of you being alive?"

"And next time you're planning to do something, it's best to be more certain of your success."

The intimidation of force, stricter surveillance and patrols in wealthy areas, economic blockade, the dragon clan demanding repayment of debts, and Kang De's lackeys launching a major counterattack and seizing profits.

In their desperate situation of fear and despair, yet unable to resist, the powerful and wealthy became increasingly frantic.

On the fourteenth day, the gates of the Distant Harbor city opened, and a convoy roared in.

Kang De greeted them at the entrance of the Sound of the Tide Manor, accompanied by Han Zezheng, Kavisalong, Master Niola, and Colonel Henry. They watched as the alchemical war chariots stopped, puffing out smoke.

More than a hundred people, some travel-worn but all with enthusiastic expressions, jumped off the bus.

They all bowed to Kang De: "Sir!"

A Cathayan, dressed in white with his long hair tied back, jumped out of the car at the front. He smiled at Kang De, his smile as warm as the morning sun.

"Your Highness, you have accomplished something truly remarkable."

Kang De embraced him, then put his arm around his shoulder and turned to the men at the manor gate, saying, "Let me introduce you. This is Hong San, my chief strategist, chief secretary of the Shogunate, and the first ruler of the Second New Distant Harbor City, my representative in the Western Continent."

This was said to the fleet commanders of the three kingdoms.

They will report Kang De's words back to their home country.

Then the whole world will know that Kang De's chief minister has now stepped onto the continental stage, and he will clash with the famous ministers and generals of various countries for the benefit of his lord.

Everyone smiled warmly and exchanged courtesies.

Only Han Zezheng looked at Hong San, who stood side by side with Kang De, with a complicated expression.

Even standing beside a world-renowned and influential figure like Kang De, this gentle and refined young man's brilliance was not overshadowed. Standing together, with the same dark hair and bright eyes, they were both spirited and radiant, like two bright stars, so young, so dazzling...

But his temples were already gray.

The most sincere and passionate time of my life has long since faded into oblivion.

He was momentarily dazed, his heart aching, but then he saw a white figure swaying before him. The young man surnamed Hong had already come before him, smiling and bowing, "Mr. Han, I am Hong San, and I have yet to learn from you..."

Han Zezheng silent for a moment, then returned the greeting. "I wouldn't dare..."

For some reason, he suddenly thought of his foolish and unfilial son.

Perhaps they've been too lenient with the beatings these past few years.

Besides Hong San, there were 126 other people who came.

They all came from Valentan and were carefully selected by Hong San over the past ten days. They were both men and women, aged between sixteen and thirty, quick-witted, kind-hearted, and determined. Their hatred for the elves was not so deep as to be irreconcilable or to the point of losing their minds and preparing to fight to the death at the sight of pointy ears.

These young people will become the backbone of the Shogunate.

And the first batch of seeds.

Sound of the Tide Manor has ninety rooms, four people per room, which is more than enough to accommodate everyone in the guest rooms. Han Zezheng in charge of arranging this, which also makes the manor feel more human. Kang De took Hong San to the study on the third floor.

Less than two minutes after entering, Dragon Girl rolled her eyes and pushed the door open, saying, "Fine, fine, I'm leaving."

Kang De's puzzled voice came from behind the door. "No, I didn't ask you to leave."

Dragon Girl called out from through the door, "The atmosphere, the atmosphere!"

Then they walked away quickly.

In the study, Kang De shrugged. "That's really baffling."

He looked at Hong San, Hong San smiled and said, "Impressive, Your Highness, I knew it was her."

"... What's the meaning."

"It's out of respect."

Kang De rolled his eyes. "You guys always believe everything you hear. There's nothing between her and me..."

"Yes, yes, yes."

"You..."

"Your Highness, please tell me about the great things you have accomplished."

Hong San smiled and said, "Your Highness's rebuke of former Governor Norman was brilliant and deeply moving, no less than the Valentan National Cemetery Speech. It will surely be remembered by the world, and perhaps before long, an artist will adapt it into a play, which will be performed and sung all over the world..."

Kang De glanced sideways and said, "Is it really that exaggerated?"

Hong San smiled and said, "It's not an exaggeration, Your Highness. Whether it's a rebuke or a speech, both declarations came from the heart and from the heart. A compassionate heart and a virtuous nature will resonate with each other, especially the part from a few days ago, which was about establishing a life for the people; it's already the words of a sage."

Kang De, however, did not show any joy or pride upon hearing this.

He snorted, "I didn't say anything. What I said that day was just a warning. I simply told those nobles to treat the common people as human beings and not to abuse them at will to achieve their own goals, or I would crush them—that's all."

"Such a viewpoint, such a low moral standard, is actually considered the words of a saint? What a pathetic and distorted world."

Hong San comforted him, saying, "If we talk about caring for the people and cherishing all living beings, the sages and kings of ancient times have always been advocating this, and it remains the moral standard for emperors and those in power to this day. But it's easy to say, but hard to do. When I say that Your Highness is dedicated to the people, it is the word of a sage. I'm not praising your words, but rather that you put your words into action. You warn the powerful and challenge a vast class for the sake of the common people's joys and sorrows. What else could you be but a sage?"

Kang De waved his hand and said, "Alright, alright, stop praising me, it's completely useless."

Hong San said solemnly, "Who says it's useless? Otherwise, why would I be standing here? Otherwise, why would the 126 Valentan People downstairs be here? Your Highness is insightful and pragmatic, which is a good thing. Indeed, life is difficult; most people are cunning, selfish, and ungrateful, and need someone to awaken and teach them. But at the same time, there will also be noble souls who shine as brightly as ever, illuminating the darkness... Hope will always exist."

He said softly, "Your Highness's declaration will resonate throughout the world and will surely inspire these lost souls."

"--Let's talk about these things when progressive young people from all over the world appear before me and bow down in reverence." Kang De waved his hand. "Let's get down to business."

Hong San stood firm and said, "Your Highness, please speak."

Kang De said, "For a long time to come, our focus will be on West Goth."

"The development of the underground world, the construction of cities above ground, and the connection with Distant Harbor create a virtuous cycle of exporting goods, values, influence, and power. Therefore, I must break through the obstruction and monopoly of the old forces, restore the center of commerce, eliminate foreign enemies, compete with other nations, advance technology, expand production, awaken the people's wisdom, and liberate productive forces... There are many things to do."

"There are some things that only I can do, so I'll do them. There are other things that I don't have time to do, or that I'm not good at doing, so you guys will do them. That's why I called you here."

Kang De pointed to the map on the wall. "The Distant Harbor has rotted to the core. Bureaucrats, soldiers, nobles and merchants have overlapping identities and intertwined interests. I took advantage of the grain war to start anew, completely overthrow the old system, and used military and economic advantages to rapidly transform this city."

"In this process, you will assist me in governing this city, paying particular attention to details. You will be the first leader of the new government in Distant Harbor. The young people of Valentan that you brought with you must be made the backbone of Distant Harbor as quickly as possible. Horus will temporarily assist you. We will govern and develop this city with entirely new efficiency, concepts, ideas, and tools..."

Modern administrative systems, and even ultra-modern technological capabilities, advanced tools and ideas will greatly improve management efficiency. Now that we have control of the Distant Harbor, we certainly cannot allow it to operate as inefficiently as before.

Kang De had discussed these ideas with Hong San many times before, and with his wisdom, they were not difficult to understand.

Only...

Hong San asked, "Temporarily?"

Kang De shrugged. "Well, Horus doesn't really like doing this kind of tedious and boring work, so he's not very efficient. He prefers combat and military technology development."

The Cathayan hesitated and asked, "What will we do then?"

"I promised him I'd find an alternative as soon as possible. Leave it to me."

"Um."

Now that Kang De had said so, Hong San felt relieved.

"Then, Your Highness, I understand."

He pondered for a moment, then drew a few lines on the whiteboard beside him. "All political affairs are divided into domestic and foreign affairs. Domestic affairs include integrating Distant Harbor, mobilizing resources, and development and construction. What about foreign affairs?"

Hong San turned his head and asked, "Besides the upcoming three-nation negotiations, does Your Highness have any other plans?"

"Have."

Kang De nodded and said, "In the Distant Harbor economic war, foreign funds from the Broken Isles are stirring up trouble and causing problems everywhere. We've captured quite a few big fish, and we've already questioned Alset enough. It's a good time to settle old scores and new grudges all at once. Anyway, Distant Harbor wants to regain its position as a trade hub, and the Broken Isles will definitely do everything in their power to obstruct and sabotage it. Since there's no room for maneuver, let's just kill them."

Hong San considered for a moment. "We can try to negotiate some favorable terms—I don't recommend that Your Highness cast a Forbidden Spell to flood the entire Broken Isles."

Kang De nodded and said, "Of course, I understand."

Having nuclear weapons is one thing, but having them and using them frequently is quite another.

"In that case, only one last question remains."

Hong San nodded in satisfaction, then asked Kang De, "Your Highness's vision for the West Goth Company involves significant economic, technological, military, and even political tasks. It requires a capable and trustworthy person to serve as president. I am truly overwhelmed and unable to manage both. It's actually a good thing that Mr. Han wants to be an official; it wouldn't be good for his family if he were president of the West Goth Company —so, who should be chosen?"

Kang De shrugged. "I don't know... we can only try to find talent gradually."

Hong San suddenly revealed a subtle, enigmatic smile, "Your Highness has forgotten? There is indeed an old acquaintance here, perfectly suited for this position, and certainly more than willing."

Kang De looked bewildered, then, as if struck by a sudden realization, said, "You mean...?"

"Yes."

Hong San smiled and said, "Your Highness, let's send a letter of invitation. It should be more formal, don't you think?"

So after Hong San left, Kang De chewed on his pen, stared at the letter in front of him, and pondered for a long time—he even spent a long time thinking about the opening salutation.

Then he reluctantly wrote the first line.

"My dear friend..."

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PS1: After the thrill of the last chapter, it's time for some reflection... (gazing into the distance)