Tax Rebate Policy

The gates of Blackwater City stood wide open in every direction. The crowds and traffic, trapped and stalled for days by the siege, surged out like floodwaters bursting through a breached dam.

Yet the Northern Alliance Army soldiers assigned to take over the gates turned a blind eye to the torrent.

They seemed unconcerned with whether people came or went freely. As long as those passing through the gates, whether individuals or caravans, caused no trouble, they were free to pass.

The merchant caravans that had long been unable to suppress their anxiety were even more eager to leave Blackwater City, racing without pause toward the harbor docks.

They had only one thought: to load the goods in their hands onto the earliest departing ships as quickly as possible, so they could continue on their trading journeys.

Victor stood atop the city wall at that moment. Watching the bustling scenes below the wall and at the docks, he nodded in satisfaction.

Standing beside him, Gaita said, "Viscount Victor, Blackwater City's value lies in its geographic location. By water, it commands the main channel of the Blackwater River; traveling north or south along the river leads to the Northern Three Commanderies and Southern Four Counties. By land, it borders the Central Six Commanderies, while crossing the river brings one to the Eastern Four Counties. It can be said to connect most of the Grand Duchy's territory and population.

It could be said that throughout the Grand Duchy, neither trade nor the movement of people could do without this place.

Now that you have taken Blackwater City, you can advance into the Central Six Commanderies in the heartland of the Grand Duchy, while also cutting off the Grand Duchy's army from its supply lines and retreat. Victory is already within sight."

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