Chapter 40: Chapter 40: Implementation of the New Tax System

    In the carriage, the rhythmic clatter of hooves against the cobblestone filled the silence as Arthur gazed out at the passing streets of Eldoria.

    Klein, seated across from him, studied his expression before asking, "How are you feeling, Your Majesty?"

    Arthur knew Klein was referring to the upcoming tax system announcement in the central square. He smirked slightly and replied, "Well, I''m not sick, so I''d say I''m fine."

    Then, with a chuckle, he admitted, "Honestly, I think I''ll be alright. This isn''t my first public address. But... this is one of the most important announcements I''ve made so far. So, to be truthful, I am a bit nervous."

    Klein nodded, his gaze steady. "You''ll do just fine. I''ve seen how hard you''ve worked these past months to improve the kingdom. The people will see it too."

    Arthur exhaled and tightened his grip on the parchment containing his speech. "Thanks for the encouragement."

    With that, Arthur turned his attention back to the document, quietly rehearsing his words, ensuring each sentence carried the weight and clarity needed for the occasion.

    The journey continued in relative silence until, finally, the carriage slowed to a halt. The faint murmur of a gathered crowd grew louder.

    Arthur took a deep breath as the door opened. Stepping out, he was met with the sight of Eldoria''s central square—packed with citizens, all awaiting the announcement that would shape their future.

    Straightening his posture, Arthur strode toward the podium, ready to address his people.

    As he looked over the crowd, a thought crossed his mind. Damn, this is a lot of people, got to be at least three times more than my last announcement. Well, that makes sense. This decision will affect their lives in a big way. Of course, they''d all come to hear it.

    Taking a deep breath, Arthur exhaled slowly, then stepped forward and spoke, his voice carrying over the hushed murmurs of the gathered crowd.

    "People of Keldoria," he began, his tone strong and authoritative, "I stand before you today to introduce a change—one that will not only shape our present but lay the foundation for a stronger future."

    The crowd listened intently, anticipation thick in the air. Arthur met their gazes, ensuring his presence commanded their attention.

    "For generations, The burden of taxation has been unfairly placed upon those who could least afford it. That changes today. No longer will a person struggling to feed his family be expected to pay the same as a noble who feasts in luxury."

    A wave of murmurs rippled through the crowd. Some exchanged uncertain glances, while others leaned in, hanging onto his every word.

    Arthur let the anticipation build for a moment before continuing, his voice steady and resolute.

    "From this day forward, our kingdom will adopt a progressive tax system—one designed to be fair and just. Each citizen will contribute according to their means. No longer will those who struggle to make ends meet bear the same burden as the wealthy."

    The crowd''s murmurs grew louder, a mixture of curiosity and cautious optimism spreading among them. Arthur raised his hand slightly, signaling for their attention before explaining the tax further.

    I''ve trained them well enough. Now, I can shift my focus more to industrializing Keldoria and to modernize this kingdom.

    —

    In the grand palace of Elysia, a man dressed in elegant attire stepped forward and bowed. "Your Majesty, King Arthur has introduced a tax system unlike anything ever seen in his kingdom."

    He carefully placed a document detailing Keldoria''s new tax structure into the hands of John Berry, the King of Elysia.

    John scanned the document for a moment before letting out a hearty laugh. "I must admit, his plan is well thought out and meticulously calculated. But in the end, he''s still the fool he''s always been. He may have changed, but he truly believes the nobility will accept this without resistance? Preposterous."

    A sly smirk crossed his face as he leaned back on his throne. "This works in our favor. We need only wait for the inevitable infighting among his own ranks. Once their forces are weakened, that will be our moment to strike. Even with Chronos aiding Arthur, our chances of victory will be far greater."

    The man nodded, a glint of admiration in his eyes. "As wise as ever, Your Majesty."

    —

    In the grand palace of Elysia, a woman dressed in an elegant gown stepped forward. "Father, I''ve heard that King Arthur has introduced a new tax system in his kingdom. He calls it a ''progressive tax system''—something we''ve neither seen nor used before. Here is the document detailing his reforms."

    Brandon Rivas, King of Chronos, clad in a regal, finely tailored suit, took the document from her hands and began reading.

    As his eyes scanned the pages, his expression darkened. "Is Arthur a complete fool?" he scoffed. "There have been rumors of his change over the past three months, but I suppose that''s all they were—just rumors. How arrogant must he be to demand a 40% tax from the most powerful and influential figures in his kingdom? There''s no way he''ll keep the nobility under control. A war between him and his own lords is inevitable."

    He set the document down with a sigh, his fingers tapping against the armrest of his throne. "Fetch me a messenger bird. I need to send that fool a warning—if he doesn''t tread carefully, he''ll get himself killed. And if that happens, Elysia will waste no time invading. I still have use for him and his military... not to mention the nine million he owes me."

    Without hesitation, the woman hurried off and returned moments later with a messenger bird. Brandon swiftly penned his letter, attached it to the bird, and sent it soaring toward Keldoria.

    ---

    Not part of the story.

    We have finally completed the purge of corruption within the royal palace, cleared 80% of Arthur''s reputation as an incompetent king, and secured the support of most nobles—whether they liked it or not—including the backing of two powerful dukes. These were all crucial steps in Project Stabilization.

    With the kingdom now stable enough to withstand major reforms, we have officially announced and implemented the new tax system without risking collapse. With this milestone achieved, our next step will be advancing Keldoria toward industrial development.

    Thank you for sticking with the story so far!

    However, I''ll be taking a short break—around a week, maybe up to 1.5 weeks max. See you soon!