In the days that followed, thunder broke in Dregaria—not of war, but of reform.
Emperor Velkarth announced sweeping changes that shocked his nation and terrified his court.
He dissolved centuries-old labor taxes. He dismantled hereditary council seats. He redirected royal wealth into what he called the Laborium Guilds — an empire within an empire where the common man could rise by merit, not blood.
Each worker received land deeds. Food tokens. Medical access. And a voice.
He summoned emissaries from Navaleon — Sharath's engineers, teachers, planners — not as prisoners, but as honored guests. They arrived wary… and left inspired.
At first, nobles rebelled in quiet circles. They sent assassins, fomented sabotage. But Velkarth struck with fury — public hangings, property seizures. His iron hand did not loosen — it changed direction.
Now, it built.