The Modernization Plan Part 1

Three days after King Edward witnessed Oriel glowing beneath electric light, Ernest returned to the Royal Palace.

This time, the invitation had not come from the king alone.

The Royal Council had been summoned.

By the time Ernest entered the council chamber, nearly every seat surrounding the long table was occupied. Prime Minister William Ashford sat to the king's right, while the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Public Works, the Minister of Health, the Royal Treasurer, and several senior council members waited with ledgers and reports arranged before them.

The atmosphere felt different from his earlier meetings.

There was no curiosity this time.

This was government.

Every man present understood that the discussion could affect the kingdom for generations.