The Momentum of Progress Part 2

As the fourth year of reconstruction continued, the changes spread far beyond the boundaries of Helmarte.

The capital remained the center of the kingdom's economic activity, but it was no longer the only place experiencing unprecedented growth. Nearly every province in Belfast had found a role in supporting the reconstruction, and the demand created by the capital had begun reshaping industries that had remained unchanged for generations.

In the north, the iron mines operated day and night.

Work crews entered the shafts in rotating shifts while steam-powered hoists lifted ore continuously toward the surface. New tunnels were cut into the mountains, additional rail lines connected the mines to processing yards, and entire settlements expanded around the growing operations.