EPISODE 179: AGE’S DAWN 1
— GREAT EDRYAN, YEAR 7291. SEASON: COLOR FADING.
Minister Livia Abara stepped forward, her gaze sharp, but deep within, there was an excited light that kept itself well contained. She met Prince Lawruthian’s gaze, and Madris’s Chosen moved aside to allow her the floor.
[Prime Overseer] Livia Abara spoke, her voice measured and words calculated. She paused after every sentence, allowing the people time to digest her words before moving on.
“ When I was but a young girl , the Edryan I knew was still experiencing the effects of the death of Princess Carina. We had lashed out, punishing her killers—enough to the point their entire race was eradicated and their God’s protection lost—the remnants changed into monsters and worse.”
Livia’s gaze traveled around as she told her story, the silent crowd listening to those they voted to secure their future—their way of life. “ I say this , because I want to stress that I’ve seen Edryan at its lowest. I’ve seen it when the eyes of its people are hopeless and uncertain of the future. I’ve seen it when the highest amount of beggars existed on the streets—beggars not crippled by disease or bodily afflictions but by poverty and hopelessness .”
Prince Lawruthian watched her silently. It was here that he truly felt a sense of who Livia Abara was. He’d read her profile and liked her overall as a candidate. She was a woman who was steady and held many friends and allies, but above all else, she made sure her allegiance could never be questioned. Not allegiance to the crown or a third party—but to the country of Edryan itself. No matter where she governed, Livia Abara was effective in ensuring the people didn’t suffer. The homeless rates were low, crime nearly nonexistent, and the peace kept. She was an admirable choice and one that Lawruthian believed would create a firm foundation for the rest of Edryan to stand upon.
He hadn’t manipulated the vote in any way—he would not, no matter what. The [Prime Overseer] position was important, but Lawruthian held his integrity.
“ When I was but a young woman , I entered the court of King Titan and began my path as a minister of this great nation. I did my best in the duties I was assigned, but my reach was only so, and in the end, we all know the outcome of the events that followed.”
Livia’s words were careful; perhaps she obtained the position of [Prime Overseer], but she wasn’t dumb enough to believe she could say whatever without consequence.
“ I say this , because I’ve seen Edryan as it struggled to recover from the effects of losing its greatest minds—its brightest leaders. Yet, no lion begets a dog son—a dog daughter. Lions are borne of lions, and our Queen was able to get our country back on track—its path headed toward a brighter future. Yet, it was not enough—not quite to push us over that step needed to truly shine as a gem within the Elrunian Continent.”
The Hall of Heroes murmured at her words, some in disagreement with her last statement. To many, Edryan would always be a shiny gem on the continent called Elrunian. It was their home, and most had never stepped foot outside the vast land—most hadn’t needed to. Not when Edryan could provide them with all their wants and needs.
“ When I reached this age , and the [Chosen of Madris]—our Crown Prince was born—I was initially like many of the magi who were told a representation of the Goddess would arise on the Mortal Plane. A representation that would lead us into a glorious future—a glorious age. Like many of us, I was confused but acceptant. I was excited but reserved—and so much more. I didn’t fully understand what the future held, but I knew something major was coming, guided by the hand of the Goddess.”
While she spoke, many gazed toward Prince Lawruthian, who silently stood a few meters away—fully allowing the new [Prime Overseer] her spotlight. His face remained calm, but a slight smile was present. Archbishop Femi remained in his previous position, his face impassive, but it was clear he was listening to his opponent’s speech.
“ I say this , because it represented that change was coming. Not a change that would rarely be recognized—but one that would be swift and decisive. A change that would shape Edryan into a new identity and remove the stigma this world holds of the magi. Our world is in chaos, and our [Chosen] is the guiding hand sent by our Goddess to correct it.”
Livia Abara’s voice grew stronger, sharper, with a decisive edge in it. Her voice cut away the low murmurs and fully captured the attention of everyone present. “I have been a Minister of Edryan most of my life, and I can firmly say no amount of change has been represented at such a monumental level than when the [Chosen of Madris] was born and began to implement it. Today, it is with honor that I’ve received the opportunity to continue this change—not just continue it, but be the guiding hand for generations to come. In these three months, as I temporarily assume the [Prime Overseer] position, I ask that you help me—help me forge the change our [Chosen] has already implemented. Help it rise to a new height, a new level, and forever leave our mark in Great Edryan’s history. Today… Rise Now and show the world the excellence of magi and the dominance we hold. We are the anvil on which a new age—a [Golden Age] will be forged!”
In the Year 7291, during the second to last season in which color fades—[Prime Overseer] Livia Abara was elected into office through a popular vote. This vote was not held throughout the Nation of Edryan, but by a small minority of nobles who were able to arrive in the capital the following week after the Imperius Grand Summit. A celebration occurred after Livia Abara received favorable advice from Prince Lawruthian and many others.
“What is one piece of advice you believe I should never forget as I assume this mantle?”
The question was open-ended and allowed for general input from any in range. Slightly over half the leaders of the Great Houses were present, and below, many nobles chattered and intermingled as they celebrated the rising of the first [Prime Overseer].
“Be effective in the establishment of the ministries,” Lawruthian spoke first, his tone measured and deliberate. “The documentation of the Class-Based Constitutional Monarchy is extensive, but the smaller details—how these ministries are structured and who leads them—fall to you. The future of Edryan hinges on those decisions.” Livia Abara nodded at the words of the [Chosen], absorbing them with the gravity they deserved. The Great Houses had placed their faith in her, and a critical meeting of the ministries awaited her the following day.
“Do not underestimate the power of the Overseer position,” Kabal Dioni added, her voice calm but firm. “It governs Edryan’s resources, which grants it immense soft power. But remember—resources do not equate to full control of the nation. Balance will be key in ensuring the country remains functional on all levels.”
“You are already a master at fostering relations between different parties—with varied goals and visions for Edryan's future. Continue with this mindset, and you will shape the Overseer branch into a force for stagnation,” Queen Titiana suddenly spoke, bringing an immediate hush over those around her. “As the [Prime Overseer], you represent the people of Edryan—your voice must be the loudest. Every branch will rely on your support. Understand this responsibility, but do not let your personal wants and needs overshadow the greater good. Be the decisive hand Edryan needs.”
***
The Queendom of Edryan underwent a rapid shift in the following months as the color faded and the final ending approached. Spurred on by [Prime Overseer] Livia Abara’s swift but decisive actions, seven new ministries were established. The next few months of Livia’s life were hectic but rewarding as she directed Great Edryan in a way she believed to be right.
The first to be established was the Ministry of Resource Allocation , directly under the purview of the [Prime Overseer]. Under Livia’s leadership, she swiftly took control of Edryan’s natural resources, supported by a labor force provided by the Great Houses, which relinquished control of several key mines to help fund the new government. Citizens of Edryan watched as familiar faces donned new uniforms, their renewed attitudes signaling a hopeful outlook on the future. This infectious enthusiasm inspired others to consider how they, too, could contribute to the nation’s prosperity.
Prime Overseer Livia Abara gathered the Regional Overseers, many appointed by the leaders of the Great Houses that once held sway over their regions. Though their roles were temporary, they would play a significant part in shaping regional responses to the new governance. The first thirty-three Regional Overseers convened in Edrya, which continued to serve as the nation's focal point at Livia’s insistence. Plans for constructing a new central government building in Edrya were underway, with construction expected to begin by the start of the New Beginning.
“Every region of Edryan has its specialty, whether it’s the Mines of Mu’ja Mud Plains overseen by [Regional Overseer] Narl Ode or the logging of the Marah Bamboo Forests under [Regional Overseer] Jaida Koi ,” Livia said sharply, pacing as she spoke. “To maximize efficiency and truly unify Edryan, we must expand our Rail Systems, connecting not just Edrya but the entire country.” Her words were impactful, but to get such actions started, another of the seven imminent ministries was necessary.
The second ministry to be established, and nearly the forerunner of the most important, was the Ministry of Finance . Livia Abara strategically placed figures from both the Adel and Dioni Houses within it, partially fulfilling her promises to those who had helped her rise to power. The Ministry of Finance would oversee Edryan’s Treasury, managing donated and loaned resources, including the forging of Edri Coins. Their responsibilities extended far beyond this, including taxation, budget allocation, and fiscal oversight of the regions.
As Livia Abara oversaw the establishment of the Ministry of Finance, she understood the critical importance of financial stability for the new government. It drew more of her attention overall as the funds, employee pay, and much more would be directly handled by this ministry—not just for the Overseer Branch, but they would hold a hand in all branches under the Class-Based Constitutional Monarchy.
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The [Prime Overseer] entered the room, her presence commanding immediate attention. “Thank you all for joining me today,” she began, her voice firm yet encouraging. “As we navigate these uncharted waters, our financial integrity will be paramount. I have entrusted each of you with not only oversight of our treasury, but also the responsibility to cultivate trust among our people.” Her gaze was strictly focused on a few of the previous government ministers she placed securely here.
Both the Ministry of Regional Affairs and the Ministry of Social Services arose next in Livia Abara's plans. The PO was confident in setting up the responsibilities of the Ministry of Regional Affairs but remained slightly uncertain about the Ministry of Social Services. Regional Affairs was the branch all [Reginal Overseers] held a hand and interest in. It was critical for overseeing the governance of regions, ensuring compliance with new upcoming national policies, and maintaining the balance of power among Regional Overseers. They were all competitors, and any one of them could arise as the next [Prime Overseer].
As for the Ministry of Social Services… Livia Abara was stumped at the documents that overviewed the outline of the CBCM. She’d followed the documents nearly to the letter and established the ministries recommended, but she had a difficult time truly seeing the value of this ministry. Thus, Livia Abara decided to go directly to the source and the one who planned this new government.
“Good afternoon, Prime Overseer Livia, how may I offer my assistance today,” Prince Lawruthian said, a slight smile on the corner of his lips as Livia Abara entered the room. The two exchanged a few pleasantries before Livia immediately got down to business. Her schedule was rapidly packed every day as she began the establishment of this new government. Yet, no matter, Livia was enjoying every second of it.
Livia presented the documents outlining the Ministry of Social Services while presenting her questions to the mastermind behind this new government. “I’m not sure if the Ministry of Social Services will hold a position in this government. This ministry…,” Livia hesitated but spoke her mind regardless—the advice given by the leaders of the Great Houses on her mind. “…it feels redundant with the Church already handling most healthcare. I can’t see its purpose clearly. Why should we divert resources to this when the Church has done so for centuries?”
Prince Lawruthian leaned back in his chair, the desk before him cluttered with documents and small figurines of golems. His slight smile never faded as he gestured for Livia to take a seat. “A fair question, Prime Overseer. The Church has served us well in matters of divine healing, but consider this—its focus is on major afflictions, those requiring divine intervention or miracles. But what about the common cold, broken bones, or fevers that spread through our cities?” He paused, letting his words settle. “These may seem trivial, but they comprise the vast majority of cases across Edryan. The Church's focus will shift as the Bellum is established.”
Livia pursed her lips, her skepticism not easily shaken. “And what of the local alchemists and herbalists? Aren’t they meant to deal with such things? Simple remedies for simple ailments.”
“True,” Lawruthian acknowledged with a nod, “but they are scattered, unregulated, and often too costly for the common folk. What I envision is a structured system—a network of alchemists, healers, and eventually medically trained individuals, all under the state's supervision. They would provide affordable, accessible care for everyday needs.”
Lawruthian swiveled his chair toward a large map of Great Edryan directly behind him—on it, roads and railways weaving through its regions. “With the rail systems we’re developing, people will move faster and in larger numbers than ever before. Illnesses will spread more quickly, too. We need an infrastructure that can handle that—especially in areas where the Church’s reach is limited or where its focus lies elsewhere.” He tapped a finger on the map, emphasizing his point. “This ministry is our safety net, ensuring that no citizen, no matter how remote, falls through the cracks.”
With her newfound understanding, Livia Abara wasted no time. She quickly set to work, dispatching workers to contact alchemists and other assorted health professionals across the regions. Her eyes widened in surprise when a new document appeared on her desk, much like the prince’s own, though without the golem figurines. Law’s Sweet Golems and several other institutions under His Highness Lawruthian’s purview had generously donated several thousand personnel—each trained in the basic arts of health and ready to staff the clinics Livia had envisioned.
'Just how long has His Highness been planning this?' Livia wondered.
Livia pressed forward with her work, the days blurring into weeks, and weeks into months. Under her steady guidance, the final three ministries were brought to life. The Ministry of Infrastructure and Development , the Ministry of Education and Cultural Affairs , and the Ministry of Trade and Regional Economies posed some of the greatest challenges but proved to be among the most rewarding. A sprinkle of personnel tied to the Great Houses could be found across each ministry—a subtle fulfillment of promises she’d made along the way.
The Ministry of Infrastructure and Development was perhaps the most immediate in its impact. Charged with expanding Edryan’s growing network of railways and ensuring the modernization of roads and public works, this ministry faced immense pressure. Livia called forward the queendom’s greatest minds, known for their prowess in all fields. The Musa clan, led by Demigoddess Margret Musa, was happy to offer their services alongside houses such as House Coal, House Ode, and more who specialized less in martial traditions and broader fields. A new meeting with the [Regional Overseers] began—each Overseer head task with the beginnings of a grand plan to unite all of Great Edryan.
Livia Abara stood at the head of the large round table, surrounded by the Regional Overseers, members of various houses, and key figures from the Ministry of Infrastructure she’d appointed. The room buzzed with anticipation as plans to modernize Edryan’s roads and railways were laid out. Demigoddess Margret Musa, representing the Musa clan, leaned forward, her sharp eyes scanning the documents as she waited for the [Prime Overseer] to speak.
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“This expansion is going to require an immense amount of steel, stone, labor—and magic,” Livia began, her tone firm but pragmatic. “We’ve calculated that the resources needed for the railways alone will cut deeply into the reserves this branch is only just looking to build.”
Margret Musa gave a slow nod, her fingers tapping against the table. “That’s no small feat. Let's take a step back and look at how the current Rail Systems were built and their impact since. Trade and travel between the houses connected have increased drastically—and the new dimensional crates produced by the [Dimentional Mages] of Starglow Valley have only just been deployed, and the number of goods traveling has increased by ten. The original rails were built by the students of Imperius Academy and took roughly the entire season of Central to complete. The cost of this was completely funded through the pockets of Prince Lawruthian as a total of forty large Edri.”
There was a sharp intake of breaths at the astronomical number Margret stated. A murmur rippled through the room—discussion breaking out at the cost. The Overseer branch was young, nearly a month and a half at this point. The season of Color Fading was at its end, and the first few flakes of snow emerged from the sky.
Margret continued, undaunted by the murmur of those present. “That is only the material cost, the equipment used to lay the tracks, labor, all of it was completely provided by His Highness Lawruthian. Should I roughly estimate the total cost, then it would be triple the amount of Edri coins,” she said with finality.
[Regional Overseer] Narl Ode frowned, arms crossed over his large belly as he glanced at the cost projections—a number that far outstripped the one Margret uttered. “I don’t question the necessity of uniting our regions with rail, but at what cost to our other infrastructure? We must still consider roads, water systems, and the planning of public works—clinics, more accessible schools…,” Narl waved his hand to make his point. “This plan could bankrupt us if we’re not careful. We should lay the groundwork for these plans now, but allow them to begin in a few years.”
Livia Abara frowned—she didn’t have three years—she had three months to prove her worth beyond just being the one to open the Overseer Branch. Livia held designs on being the first true Prime Overseer, and should she be able to start these projects, then perhaps her chances of success would rise.
“We cannot afford to wait,” she said, her voice firm. “Delaying the expansion of the railways for years would stall the very progress we are trying to build. We need this infrastructure now , not just for economic growth but for political unity. We’ve already seen the benefits of connecting the regions. Trade, communication, even the movement of troops, all have increased efficiency…” Livia paused, and a new thought entered her mind. The other branches were under their initial construction during this period. Perhaps this could be a joint opportunity for all five branches of the Class-Based Constitutional Monarchy to come together.
“How about this…,” Livia began, her eyes scanning the room. “We bring in the other branches—the Justiciary, the Templum, and even the Bellum. They all stand to benefit from this infrastructure, and by combining resources, we can lighten the burden on each individual ministry. The railways won’t just serve economic purposes; they’ll aid in legal enforcement, the spread of divine services, and the rapid mobilization of our forces. Everyone gains something from this expansion.”
Margret Musa’s eyes gleamed with interest, but she stayed silent. While Narl Ode raised an eyebrow, considering the proposal. “Pooling resources across the branches… it could spread the cost,” he mused, rubbing his smooth-shaven chin. “But that also means bringing in more players, more agendas.”
Livia nodded. “True. But if we manage this right, it will set a precedent for collaboration between the branches—a united effort for the good of Edryan. And in return, it strengthens each branch's influence in ways that align with their goals.”
With renewed determination, Livia began to delegate responsibilities, noting that everyone in the room represented someone from another of the nascent branches of government. She was confident this project’s costs could be shared, lessening the financial burden on her Overseer branch.
As she moved on to the final two ministries, Livia's thoughts turned to the Ministry of Education and Cultural Affairs. This branch required a more delicate touch; it wasn’t merely about organizing schools, but about unifying a diverse nation under a shared sense of identity. His Highness Lawruthian had already established a strong foundation for this task, but Livia was determined to put her mark on it, ensuring her name and legacy would be remembered.
Working tirelessly with scholars and historians such as [Maiden] Braya of the Scholar’s Abode and more renowned experts, Livia aimed to develop a curriculum that balanced regional traditions with a new, national narrative. Livia was particularly keen on fostering loyalty to Great Edryan, instilling in the younger generation a deep sense of national pride—one that transcended the pride all magi held for their magical heritage. This ministry also served as a safeguard against cultural fragmentation, promoting art, history, and education that would bridge the gap between the old and the new.
That task accomplished, Livia looked to the last ministry as the new year approached. The Ministry of Trade and Regional Economies posed its set of difficulties, capturing the interest of all Great Houses. This ministry would serve as the driving force behind establishing the rules and regulations of trade, both within and outside the country. It bore the heavy responsibility of balancing the interests of the Great Houses, merchants, and regional economies.
Livia spent long nights poring over trade routes, tariffs, and production data, meticulously seeking to optimize the flow of goods and wealth. With the new rail system set to become operational, the ministry's role in expanding Edryan’s economic power was critical. She made it a priority to ensure that trade policies favored national unity, while providing each region the opportunity to flourish in its own right.
The matriarch of the Abara House calmly observed the large building that would serve as the headquarters of the Overseer Branch under construction. This year’s heavy snowfall did little to deter the [Prime Overseer], who insisted that the outlines of the project be completed before her term ended. Livia Abara felt a deep sense of satisfaction with her accomplishments over the past three months. Her name was ubiquitous —found in every document, every new establishment in Edryan, and more. The people would recognize it as her legacy. Yet, she couldn't shake the hope that she hadn’t done enough; the first elections of the Overseer Branch were approaching. As the year drew to a close, a New Beginning awaited all of Edryan. Livia Abara prayed it would be under her guidance.
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AN: I hope this chapter is giving you an idea of why Livia won the popular vote over Femi. I actually considered how most nobles would vote at this time period, and realized most would be conservative and would vote for a person who they feel aligns with them.
