I Reincarnated as a Prince Who Revolutionized the Kingdom

December 26, 1695.

The first light of dawn crept through the windows of the Royal Palace of Elysea. The grand halls, once filled with music and laughter the night before, were now quiet, save for the occasional sounds of servants tidying up after the grand festivities.

King Bruno stretched as he sat up in bed, rubbing his temples. His body felt sluggish from the amount of food and wine he had indulged in the previous night. He glanced over to his side, where Amélie still lay, her breathing soft and steady. She had been the one to convince him to truly enjoy the holiday, and for once, he had allowed himself to let go of his worries.

But now, Christmas was over.

Bruno exhaled and carefully got out of bed, not wanting to wake his wife. He washed his face with cold water from a nearby basin and dressed in a simple tunic before stepping into the hall.

Outside, the palace was slowly coming back to life. Servants were already at work clearing the remnants of the feast, polishing the silverware, and ensuring everything was back in order. Some nobles who had stayed overnight were beginning to leave, their carriages lining up at the main entrance.

Bruno made his way to his private study, where a stack of reports awaited him. Even during Christmas, the affairs of the kingdom had not paused.

Bruno sat at his desk and opened the first document, a report from the African colonies. General Roux had sent an update on the progress in Carthage, detailing the construction of additional outposts and new trade agreements with local tribes. However, there were also reports of resistance in some regions, particularly from tribal leaders who were not eager to cooperate.

Bruno frowned. He had expected some opposition, but the details suggested that outside forces might be influencing these tribes—perhaps Germania, Orosk, or Iberia, who had been watching Elysea's expansion with growing concern.

A knock at the door interrupted his thoughts.

"Come in," Bruno said.

The door opened, and Chief Minister Antoine stepped inside. "Your Majesty, I hope you had a restful Christmas."

Bruno smirked. "For the most part. But now it's back to business."

Antoine placed a few more documents on the desk. "Reports from the African territories, as well as economic updates from the mainland. The new Christmas policies were well received, but there are some complaints from the nobility and merchants about the mandatory bonuses."

Bruno expected this. "How serious are these complaints?"

Antoine adjusted his spectacles. "Some merchants claim they suffered losses, but based on our treasury records, trade and spending actually increased because of the bonuses. The common folk spent more, which benefited businesses overall. I suspect these complaints are simply nobles trying to avoid sharing their wealth."

Bruno leaned back in his chair. "Then we don't change anything. If anything, this proves that the policy worked."

Antoine nodded. "Very well, Your Majesty."

Bruno tapped his fingers on the desk. "What about our military preparations? Have there been any unusual movements from Germania, Orosk, or Iberia?"

Antoine hesitated. "There have been reports of increased naval activity from Germania in the Mediterranean. They haven't made any aggressive moves yet, but it's clear they are positioning themselves for something."

Bruno narrowed his eyes. "They're testing the waters. Keep an eye on them. If they start interfering with our supply routes, we'll need to respond."

Antoine bowed. "Understood, Your Majesty."

Later that day, Bruno decided to visit the military barracks in the capital. The soldiers had also celebrated Christmas, but training and readiness were never neglected.

As he arrived, he was met by General Auguste, the commander of the city's garrison. The older man saluted. "Your Majesty, to what do we owe the honor?"

Bruno surveyed the soldiers practicing in the courtyard, their movements crisp despite the cold air. "I wanted to see how our forces are doing. With the situation in Africa and the growing tension in Europe, I need to know we're prepared."

General Auguste nodded. "Our men are disciplined and ready, Your Majesty. We've increased recruitment efforts, and the new training methods have improved their efficiency."

Bruno walked past a group of soldiers practicing their aim with the bolt-action rifle. "Good. We may need them sooner than expected."

As they continued their inspection, Bruno observed the various units—infantry, cavalry, and artillery crews. The kingdom's military was strong, but he knew that if Germania or Iberia launched a coordinated attack, Elysea would need every advantage it could get.

Bruno turned back to Auguste. "Make sure the officers are preparing their men for all scenarios. We don't know when the next war will come, but I'd rather be ready before it does."

The general saluted. "As you command, Your Majesty."

By the time Bruno returned to the palace, the sun was already setting, casting a golden glow over the snow-covered rooftops. The city was still lively, with people enjoying the final moments of the holiday season before returning to their normal routines.

Inside his private quarters, Amélie was already waiting for him, a book in her hands. She looked up as he entered. "You were gone all day."

Bruno sat beside her with a sigh. "I had to check on a few things. The kingdom doesn't stop just because Christmas is over."

She placed the book aside and studied him. "You're thinking about Africa."

Bruno nodded. "We're making progress, but there are signs that our enemies are preparing to interfere. Germania's moving their fleets, and some of the local tribes are starting to resist."

Amélie reached out and took his hand. "You knew this wouldn't be easy. But you've always been good at staying ahead of your enemies."

Bruno smirked. "I hope you're right."

For a moment, they sat in silence. The warmth of the fireplace flickered across the room, casting soft shadows.

Amélie broke the silence. "Tomorrow, what's your plan?"

Bruno leaned back. "I'll meet with the council and go over our next moves. We need to strengthen our naval presence in Africa and ensure our trade routes remain secure. If our rivals are preparing to act, we need to be one step ahead."

She nodded. "And after that?"

Bruno chuckled. "After that, I'll try to have dinner with my wife before she accuses me of being married to my work."

Amélie laughed. "I'll hold you to that."

As the night deepened, Bruno allowed himself a moment of calm. Tomorrow would bring new challenges, but for now, he could rest, if only for a little while.