Release that Witch Episode 4: Episode 4

The episode opens in a dimly lit chamber, where Lady Alice, with her enigmatic smile, oversees a pirate raid's success. She is a woman of quiet authority, her words carrying cold finality. A knight reports her triumphs, then the failure of an assassination attempt on Roland. Alice dismisses explanations, simply giving the would-be assassin one last chance. Her chilling command to "hang him" for the alchemy master whose poison failed underscores her ruthless efficiency.

The scene shifts to Border Town's bustling harbor, a place of constant activity. Kyle, a young man, oversees the loading of goods onto a ship, his expression focused. Guards stand nearby, watchful. The gray, overcast sky lends a practical, no-nonsense air to the operations. This is a town that works, a town with resources moving in and out.

Inside a study, Roland Wimbledon discusses Border Town's dire finances with Barov, his advisor. Despite ongoing construction and trade, Barov expresses concern over a severe deficit, funded largely by Roland's personal coffers. Roland remains calm, even confident, alluding to future ore sales as a solution. He prepares for the arrival of an envoy from Longsong Stronghold, ordering a lavish feast using newly arrived provisions.

Pedro, the envoy from Longsong Stronghold, arrives to a surprisingly opulent feast. He gazes at the spread with wide eyes, impressed by the abundance. Roland demonstrates the use of chopsticks, explaining their practicality and hygiene compared to expensive silverware. He declares his intention to popularize them in Border Town. Pedro is taken aback, realizing this feast's scale is a luxury even in his own stronghold.

Roland reveals his true game to a stunned Pedro, announcing that Border Town has sold its ore to Leaf Town and secured enough food for winter. He states that a recent mine collapse prevents them from supplying Longsong Stronghold with the agreed amount of ore. Pedro grapples with the implications, realizing Roland has bypassed the Duke entirely. The prince dismisses Pedro's concerns about the risks, declaring his intent to build city walls and defend Border Town, transforming it into a new frontier.

Back in Longsong Stronghold, Pedro relays Roland's bold plans to an enraged Duke Ryan and his dismissive lords. The Duke scoffs at Roland's ambitions, viewing them as a merchant's ploy. He asserts his authority, slamming his goblet and declaring that Border Town's fate is irrelevant; what matters is his control. Anyone who disobeys him will be punished.

Under a heavy, persistent rain, Roland Wimbledon addresses the distraught citizens of Border Town in the square. He speaks of the failed ore deal with Longsong Stronghold and the imminent, longer Demon Moon winter. He passionately reminds them of the past suffering, of friends, lovers, and children lost two years prior. His voice rises in anguish, challenging them: "This time, what more shall we lose?"

Roland's speech shifts from anguish to defiant hope. He vows, by his name, that the past tragedies will not repeat. He calls for all able-bodied citizens to join the militia, promising silver wages and golden pensions for fallen families. He announces a blacksmith from Leaf Town will forge steel weapons. The rain ceases, sunlight breaks through, bathing Roland in a heroic glow as he holds aloft a shimmering blue potion, promising strength. The crowd erupts in cheers, fully committed to his vision.