Building a Modern Nation in a Fantasy World-Chapter 50: Tax Revenue

Ben quickly responded, "This includes the top three regions—Eldoria, Solarny, and Ironhearth. Reports from the remaining two regions are delayed due to logistical challenges, but they should arrive soon."

Arthur nodded in understanding. "That’s fine. Now, compared to the old tax system, how much has our revenue increased?"

Ben’s lips curled into a slight smile. "According to the data from these three regions alone, our revenue has increased by 80% compared to the old system."

Arthur let out a pleased hum. "That’s a significant jump. And what about our expenditures? We’ve hired more tax collectors, scribes, and officials to ensure the system runs smoothly. How much has been spent on maintaining the Keldorian Tax Office?"

Ben flipped through his documents before responding. "Yes, Your Majesty. Our spending on the KTO has tripled compared to the old system. We are offering above-average salaries to ensure loyalty and reduce corruption among tax officials."

Arthur nodded in approval. "A necessary cost. If it means maintaining an honest and efficient system, then it’s well worth the expense." He tapped a finger on the desk, deep in thought. "However, winter has begun. Tax revenue will naturally decline as trade slows. Work with the Department of Finance and prepare an estimate of our expected income—from income taxes, tariffs, and other revenue sources. Then, calculate the projected costs to maintain the military, the KTO, and other governmental departments. I want a detailed financial report."

Ben bowed slightly. "Understood, Your Majesty. I will see to it immediately."

Arthur leaned forward. "Good. Now, tell me—have there been any issues or resistance to the new tax system?"

Ben’s features softened slightly. "Among the common folk, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. The tax-free threshold has allowed many struggling families to afford food without the fear of collectors seizing their last coins. Some have even begun saving for the first time. Trade among small vendors is thriving, and optimism is spreading across the kingdom. As for the middle-income earners, there’s little complaint—their taxes remain largely unchanged from what they paid before."

Arthur allowed himself a small smile. "That is exactly what I intended."

However, Ben’s expression darkened as he hesitated before continuing. "That being said, the merchant guilds and some wealthy aristocrats are… displeased. Many resent the fact that they now contribute a greater share of their earnings. Merchants, in particular, are struggling to adjust to the new tariffs. Before, they could easily dominate the market by importing cheap foreign goods, but with tariffs leveling the playing field, local businesses have become viable competitors."

Arthur chuckled. "So the merchants finally have to compete fairly? How tragic."

Ben nodded. "Yes, and because of this, complaints against you and the new tax system have become a common topic among them. Some of the merchants have even begun voicing their frustrations more openly."

Arthur’s amusement faded. "That was expected. And what about the nobility? How are the higher-ranking and more influential figures reacting?"

Ben shook his head. "For now, they have complied with the new tax reforms without outright resistance. Many have voiced their grievances in private, but none have taken any direct action against the crown."

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Arthur leaned back in his chair, his thoughts turning inward. That’s to be expected. I’m taking nearly 40% of their income—of course, there will be resentment. But I can’t afford to grow complacent. With winter approaching, I need to solidify my connections with the many powerful nobles before their dissatisfaction turns into something more dangerous.

Pushing those thoughts aside for now, he refocused on the matter at hand. "Good. And what of tax evasion? Have there been any cases worth noting?"

Ben hesitated for a brief moment before replying, "Yes, Your Majesty. As expected, there have been cases of tax evasion—some merchants attempted to underreport their earnings, while a few landowners tried to hide their wealth through false ledgers. However, our investigators have been through. Those caught evading taxes have been punished accordingly, either through heavy fines or asset seizures."

Arthur nodded, his expression unreadable. "And what of our own people? Any corruption within the tax offices?"

Ben’s face darkened. "Unfortunately, yes. A handful of tax officers were found accepting bribes in exchange for lowering tax assessments. Some even conspired with merchants to falsify records. But rest assured, Your Majesty, they have been dealt with."

Arthur’s gaze sharpened. "Dealt with how?"

Ben met his eyes without hesitation. "As per your decree, they were publicly executed if their crime is too severe. Corruption within the system cannot be tolerated, especially at this crucial stage of reform. Their deaths serve as a warning to others who might consider the same path."

Arthur exhaled slowly. "Good. If we are to build a just system, we cannot afford corruption among those who enforce the laws. Ensure that the executions are well-publicized. The people must see that justice is impartial, that no one—rich or poor—is above the law."

Ben nodded. "It has already been done, Your Majesty. The message is clear."

Arthur nodded, "Good, now let me review these documents. You may leave for now."

Ben bowed respectfully and turned to go, but before he reached the door, Arthur added, "Also, inform Klein that I wish to speak with him. Tell him I’ll be waiting here."

Ben inclined his head. "I will deliver the message, Your Majesty."

As Ben exited the chamber, Arthur turned his gaze back to the stack of reports.

A few moments later, the door creaked open once more. Klein stepped inside, bowing deeply. "Your Majesty, what can I do for you?"

Arthur wasted no time. "I need an update on the search team. It has been a week since they discovered the sulfur deposits. Where are they now, and how much longer will it take for the shipment to arrive?"

Klein thought for a moment before replying. "They are still in route, but based on their last report, they should arrive at the capital within five to ten days."

Arthur nodded. "Good. That resource is crucial. Also, how is our military progressing? I allocated additional funds to recruitment and improving our training facilities—have there been any results?"

Klein gave a small smile. "Yes, Your Majesty. We have successfully recruited a significant number of new knights and mages. Training facilities have been upgraded, and the troops are progressing well. Morale among the soldiers is high."

Arthur nodded, satisfied.

Klein then hesitated before adding, "Your Majesty, there is another matter—your Accession Day is in ten days. Have you given any thought to how you wish to celebrate it?"

In just ten days, Arthur Jr. would mark his first full year as King of Keldoria—a reign that began under tragic circumstances after the assassination of his father, king Arthur III. Though Moe had only inhabited this body for about six months, the original Arthur Jr. had already ruled for half a year before his arrival. Thus making it a year.

In this world, royal heirs who inherited the title "Jr." were required to keep it until they turned thirty, regardless of whether their parents were still alive. However, Accession Day was an exception. On this day, Arthur had the rare opportunity to change his name—a significant moment in his rule. He could choose to honor tradition and remain Arthur IV, adopt a new surname to mark a fresh beginning, or even create an entirely different title for himself.

For Arthur Jr., this was more than just a formal celebration. It was a pivotal moment that would define his reign—a chance to solidify his rule, shape his own identity, and assert his vision for Keldoria’s future.

Arthur leaned back, his gaze distant. "Accession Day, huh…?"

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Not part of the story.

Sorry, I’m not sure how to remove privilege chapters since it was set automatically. I’ll try to contact WN and request that the chapter isn’t put into privilege mode. Sry for the last two day since chapter 49 and this chapter should come out together but due to privilege chapter it was messed up.