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.

Arthur's thoughts returned to the present, and he spoke with authority. "I don't care if your uncle or godfather is a Count. You have broken the law by abusing your power to oppress the weak. As such, you will pay a fine of 20 gold coins and serve five months in prison with labor."

A wave of murmurs swept through the crowd. Many could hardly believe that the king was actually punishing a noble for bullying a commoner.

Arthur raised his voice to address them, cutting through the chatter. "As I said before, from today onward, I, King Arthur Jr., will transform Keldoria into a better kingdom. This begins with changing unjust laws and reforming flawed systems. I know I have been an incompetent king in the past, but I promise you this: I will earn your trust and rebuild this nation. All I ask is that you believe in me."

The crowd's murmur grew louder, their voices a mix of skepticism and cautious hope. Some doubted that the king could truly change, given his past indifference. Yet most recognized a shift in Arthur demeanor and were certain that this was not something the King Arthur Jr. they once knew would do."

After handling things in the central square, Arthur and his guards headed back to the castle. 

…

Later that evening, in the king's chamber, Arthur let out a contented sigh. "Ahh, this is refreshing," he murmured, rubbing his hair dry with a towel. He strolled over to his study desk and sank into the chair, his gaze drifting to the window.

Night had fallen completely, and the moon hung high in the sky, its silver light bathing the room in a soft glow. Arthur smiled faintly. "Even when it's not full, the moon still shines bright," he mused aloud, his voice tinged with quiet admiration.

He leaned back in his chair, letting his thoughts wander.

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

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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.