I Reincarnated as a Prince Who Revolutionized the Kingdom-Chapter 73: The Beginning of the Transformation

The city of Elysee had finally quieted. The grand celebrations of the coronation and royal wedding had come to an end, and as the first light of dawn crept over the rooftops, the aftermath of the festivities was visible throughout the streets.

Discarded garlands hung limply from lampposts, musicians packed up their instruments, and weary laborers began the task of cleaning up the remnants of feasts and celebrations. The people had enjoyed their moment of joy, but now, life would return to its usual rhythm—though under a new ruler, with new expectations.

Inside the royal palace, the mood had already shifted from celebration to governance. King Bruno sat in his study, dressed in a simple dark tunic, a stark contrast to the regal attire of the previous night. The large wooden table before him was covered with maps, documents, and reports—the real work of a ruler.

Across from him, Antoine Leclerc, Jean-Baptiste Moreau, and Captain Vallier sat in their respective seats, awaiting the first official council meeting under the newly crowned king.

Bruno exhaled, running a hand through his hair before speaking.

"The people have celebrated. The nobility has made their toasts. But none of that secures Elysea’s future. Now, we begin the real work."

Moreau, the Finance Minister, adjusted his spectacles and leaned forward. "Your Majesty, the celebrations were a necessary gesture, but the treasury has suffered significantly. The cost of the coronation and wedding was enormous—while the National Bank is stabilizing the economy, we must improve revenue collection to prevent future deficits."

Bruno nodded. "Then let’s begin with tax reform. The nobility can no longer hoard wealth while the people carry the burden."

Moreau smirked. "You’ll be making powerful enemies."

Bruno smirked back. "They already despise me. That hasn’t stopped me before."

Leclerc chuckled but quickly turned serious. "What do you propose, Your Majesty?"

Bruno tapped a document on the table. "A standardized tax system. No more arbitrary fees imposed by individual lords. All taxation will be conducted by the state, through appointed Prefects overseeing each province."

Moreau exhaled. "A centralized tax collection system will increase efficiency, but the nobility will resist—they see taxation as part of their right to rule."

Bruno’s expression hardened. "Then they will learn that those days are over."

Bruno turned to Moreau. "How soon can we expand our industrial base? If we want Elysea to compete with the great powers of Europe, we must move beyond agriculture and traditional craftsmanship."

Moreau flipped through his notes. "Our textile production is already increasing thanks to the power loom, and large-scale steel manufacturing has begun. However, if we want true industrialization, we must invest in mining, shipbuilding, and mechanized production."

Bruno nodded. "Then begin immediately. Allocate funds for industrial infrastructure—factories, railways, and machine workshops. If we do not advance now, we will fall behind."

Moreau hesitated. "This will require massive capital investment. Investors will hesitate if they do not see immediate returns."

Bruno’s gaze was firm. "Then the state will lead. Establish a National Industrial Fund—use it to finance the development of factories and transport networks. If private investors see the crown supporting industry, they will follow."

Leclerc smirked. "A bold move. If it succeeds, Elysea will be unrecognizable in a decade."

Bruno leaned forward. "That’s the plan."

Vallier finally spoke, his arms crossed. "Your Majesty, while economic expansion is necessary, we must also focus on our military. If Elysea is to grow in strength, we must ensure that no external force threatens our development."

Bruno nodded. "Agreed. The army must be modernized. Our current forces are still structured like a feudal army—dependent on individual lords and their personal levies. That must change."

Vallier smirked. "I was hoping you’d say that."

Bruno placed a military reform proposal on the table. "We establish a standing professional army. No more noble-led regiments acting as independent factions. The crown will control recruitment, training, and supply."

Vallier grinned. "This will give Elysea an army truly loyal to the state."

Bruno continued, "Additionally, we must invest in modern weaponry—artillery, muskets, and disciplined formations. The days of knights charging into battle are over."

Moreau looked over the proposal. "This will be costly, Your Majesty."

Bruno smirked. "Everything worthwhile is."

Bruno turned to Leclerc. "What of our foreign standing? How do the other nations react to my coronation?"

Leclerc folded his arms. "Germania has sent formal recognition, but they watch us cautiously. The Orosk is considering an alliance. The Eastern Sultanates are indifferent—for now."

Bruno exhaled. "We need to expand our influence. If Elysea is to industrialize, we need resources. And resources mean one thing—territory."

Leclerc raised an eyebrow. "You’re planning expansion already?"

Bruno smirked. "Not through war—not yet. First, we consolidate trade agreements, ensuring Elysea has access to coal, iron, and other necessary materials."

Moreau nodded. "Trade agreements will strengthen our economy before direct military action is even necessary."

Bruno tapped the map. "Good. But be prepared—if negotiations fail, we take what we need."

As the meeting continued, the doors opened, and Queen Amélie entered, walking with her usual grace. The men at the table stood briefly, acknowledging her presence.

She glanced at Bruno. "I assume you’re already reshaping the world?"

Bruno smirked. "Just Elysea—for now."

She took a seat beside him, scanning the documents. "I have received letters from several noble families—some eager to align themselves with the new court, others... hesitant."

Bruno nodded. "Expected. Let them hesitate. The future waits for no one."

Amélie turned to the council. "If the nobility resists, they must be shown that their survival depends on adaptation. The ones who embrace reform will thrive—the ones who resist will be left behind."

Leclerc chuckled. "You truly did marry well, Your Majesty."

Bruno smirked. "That was never in doubt."

Bruno stood, looking over the map of Elysea. The coronation was over. The celebrations had ended.

Now, the real work began.

"From this day forward, we move with purpose," Bruno declared. "Elysea will no longer be a kingdom of outdated traditions and stagnant politics. We will be a nation of progress, strength, and order."

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The council members exchanged glances. They had followed Bruno this far—now, they would see just how far he intended to go.

Bruno exhaled, placing his hands on the table. "Gentlemen, the next chapter of Elysea begins today."

Leclerc smirked. "And something tells me it will be... unforgettable."

Bruno chuckled. "Let’s get to work."

And so, the transformation of Elysea truly began.