Inside the city of Eryndor, fear and unease had become the new normal.
Everyone walked as if on a trembling rope in the middle of a storm.
Although His Majesty Aurek had not continued the killing, the entire city remained trapped in a dreadful atmosphere, as though even the smallest mistake might bring about disaster.
At that very moment, a new proclamation from the imperial court spread across the streets, immediately catching everyone's attention.
"Imperial Decree No. 2287: From this day onward, a twenty percent reduction in all taxes shall take effect."
…
The news struck like a thunderclap.
In an instant, the whole of Eryndor City erupted into chaos.
"What? What did it say?"
"His Majesty Aurek… he's reducing taxes?"
"The Empire has actually passed a tax-cutting decree? How is that even possible?"
For months the Empire's finances had been in ruins. The treasury was nearly bled dry, and the court was scrambling for coin. And now Aurek had reduced taxes?
Was he insane?
