Later that day Martin convened a special meeting with the remaining advisors and officials in the palace's war room. The room was stark, its walls lined with maps and strategic plans. The heavy oak table at the center was strewn with documents and reports detailing the recent upheaval in the kingdom. Martin stood at the head of the table, his demeanor serious as he addressed his advisors.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Martin began, his voice resolute, "the recent conflicts and transitions have left us with a pressing need to stabilize our regions and secure our resources. Today, we must address the issue of Snowveil and its wealth."
A murmur of agreement and anticipation swept through the room. Martin's eyes were fixed on a detailed map of Obelia, his finger pointing to the Snowveil region.
"The Snowveil family," he continued, "amassed considerable wealth that now falls under our control. This wealth can be a vital asset in stabilizing the region and ensuring our continued prosperity. We will seize their assets and use them to bring order to other regions."
One of the advisors, a young man with a keen interest in finance, spoke up. "How do you plan to handle the distribution and management of Snowveil's resources?"
Martin nodded thoughtfully. "The wealth will be carefully audited and assessed to determine its value and potential. We will establish a provisional administration in Snowveil to manage these assets and oversee their distribution. This will include setting up a local council composed of trusted officials and representatives from the region to ensure that the transition is smooth and that the resources are used effectively."
He paused to let the information sink in. "Our goal is to stabilize the region, support its economy, and ensure that Snowveil remains a strong and loyal part of our kingdom. The wealth will be utilized to rebuild infrastructure, support local businesses, and enhance security."
Another advisor, a seasoned diplomat, raised a question. "And what of the other regions? How will you ensure they are properly represented and managed?"
Martin's gaze shifted to the broader map. "For the other regions, I will personally appoint interim leaders who will be responsible for overseeing the transition and implementing the new ministerial system. These leaders will be chosen based on their expertise and loyalty to our kingdom. They will work closely with the local populace to ensure that their needs are addressed and that the transition to the new governance structure is executed smoothly."
He leaned forward, emphasizing his next point. "These appointments are crucial for maintaining stability and preventing power vacuums during the transition. Each leader will be given the authority to establish local councils and prepare their regions for the upcoming elections."
The advisors nodded in agreement, recognizing the strategic importance of Martin's plan.
"With these measures," Martin concluded, "we will strengthen our kingdom's unity, ensure effective governance, and harness the resources necessary for our continued growth. Your cooperation and diligence in implementing these plans will be vital to our success."
The meeting adjourned, and the advisors dispersed to carry out Martin's directives. As Martin remained in the war room, reviewing the plans and strategies, he felt a sense of purpose. The path to rebuilding and stabilizing Obelia was set before him, and he was determined to see it through with the strength and vision required for a kingdom on the brink of transformation.
Martin sat at his chambers, the soft glow of candlelight casting shadows over the papers strewn before him. As he reviewed the plans for economic recovery, his thoughts turned inward, reflecting on the immense magical power he had recently harnessed.
"The sacrifice of my life force was a steep price to pay," Martin mused to himself, his expression resolute. "But the power it granted me is undeniable. The mana I've generated is ten times more potent than usual. This strength—this extraordinary boost in magical energy—has provided me with the means to execute the boldest of plans. I won't be constrained by the limitations of ordinary magic at least for now."
He leaned back in his chair, a grim smile touching his lips. "The economic situation is critical. The city's stability hinges on decisive action, and the power I now wield gives me the leverage to enforce sweeping changes. The sacrifice has been worth it. I'll use this power to implement the policies needed to restore order and prosperity."
Martin's gaze drifted to the maps and documents detailing his strategy for economic stabilization. "With this enhanced mana, I can now create fields of grain over hundred of miles wealth and redistribute it to stabilize the region. It will be crucial in shoring up our economy and rebuilding from the turmoil. It's a necessary step to ensure our long-term stability and control."
He continued internally as he stood up,"My rule will be firm but fair. The old council has been dismissed, and I will implement a system where ministers are elected by the people. This new approach will align the government more closely with the needs and will of the citizens, while still allowing me to maintain ultimate authority. I'll oversee the process, ensuring that the policies align with my vision for the kingdom's recovery."
In the dim light of dawn, Martin crept through the echoing corridors of the royal palace. The grandeur of the palace was undeniable, with its high ceilings and opulent decor, but Martin was focused on his mission: the royal treasury.
Martin reached the heavy, ornate doors of the treasury. With a careful touch, he unlocked the doors using a set of keys he had acquired. The massive doors groaned open, revealing the shimmering wealth within.
The treasury was a vast room lined with shelves and chests brimming with gold coins, silver ingots, and precious gems. Martin's eyes quickly scanned the glittering array of treasures. He had been told that the royal vault contained a collection of rare gemstones, and he was here to find one suitable for storing magic.
He approached a display case housing an assortment of gemstones—emeralds, sapphires, rubies, and diamonds—each more dazzling than the last. Martin's heart raced with anticipation. He carefully selected a large, clear quartz crystal from the collection, its flawless surface catching the light and reflecting a myriad of colors.
With the gemstone in hand, Martin retreated back to his chambers. He would use enchantment on it to store magic, this way even after Frostfall he would be able to use magic.