Chapter 15: Chapter 15: Nobility

    "Do you really think bribery can solve this?" Arthur asked, his tone sharp and unwavering.

    Ethan, consumed by panic and fear, stammered, "I''m sorry, Your Highness! I didn''t mean it like that. But if you spare me, my uncle—Count David, who''s like a godfather to me—would be most grateful. He''d even support you with whatever you need."

    Arthur''s eyes narrowed as he thought to himself ''Did he not just hear me say that bribery wouldn''t solve this? And now he''s doubling down, dragging his uncle Count David into this mess?''

    Drawing on the memories of the past Arthur, he reflected on the structure of nobility in Keldoria. The kingdom''s noble hierarchy consisted of four ranks: Baron, Count, Marquess, and Duke, with Barons holding the lowest rank and Dukes occupying the highest.

    To attain the title of Baron, one needed to be extraordinarily wealthy or possess exceptional magical talent equivalent to a B-rank mage or higher, or 3 to 4 star aura knight of considerable skill. However, most Baron are usually wealthy because most of the talented knights and mages without financial means often found themselves in the service of the king or wealthier nobles.

    Counts, however, required more than individual success. To ascend to this rank, one needed influential connections with nobles of equal or higher standing and a proven ability to aid the kingdom in meaningful ways. Families of Counts typically have multiple high ranked mages or aura knights within their family household.

    The title of Marquis was reserved for those whose families possessed extraordinary talents or commanded loyal subjects. This rank was also granted to retired heroes or those who had rendered unparalleled service to the kingdom during times of war.

    Regardless of their rank, nobles were invaluable during wartime, contributing wealth, troops, and strategic expertise. This dependence had given rise to the law forbidding commoners from disrespecting the nobility—a rule often abused to protect the powerful.

    Now that I''ve visited so many places in Eldoria, both urban and rural, I''ve learned a lot about the kingdom. Eldoria, much like the bustling business district, is where most of the kingdom''s trade happens. It''s also home to many of the nobles, given that it''s the capital of Keldoria. But other regions, like Solarny with its esteemed magic tower, or Iron Hearth with its rich deposits of iron ore, copper, and gemstones, are equally vital for Keldoria.

    Arthur exhaled slowly, his gaze returning to the moon. His thoughts drifted again.

    I should make time to visit those regions later. But for now, I need to focus on ways to generate more revenue to strengthen the nation. Implementing a progressive tax system could be a solution, but introducing it outright might destabilize Keldoria.

    He frowned, running a hand through his hair. The nobles and wealthier commoners would likely oppose paying more, while those with lower incomes would welcome the change. Such disparity could sow discord. The tax reform might be beneficial for the kingdom in the long run, but Keldoria is a nation constantly at war with neighboring nations. The nobles, who play a crucial role in funding and supporting the wars, might see the new system as a threat and withdraw their support. If they leave Keldoria, the consequences could be disastrous.

    Arthur scratched his head in frustration. He understood the theory behind the tax system and its potential to improve the kingdom, but implementing it in a way that satisfied all parties seemed an insurmountable challenge that he has to face

    —

    Not part of the story

    Thank you for all the comment and support in last Chapter and Merry Christmas to all the reader reading this story.