Three days later, morning, Pope Palace.
Pope Qian Xunji wore a papal robe embroidered with gold thread and sat upright in the chief's seat. His fingertips lightly tapped the map of the continent spread across the table—on it, the territories of Heaven Dou and Star Luo had already been circled in vermilion, marked with the words "Spirit Hall Territory."
The Seven Grand Worships sat facing one another around the round table, while the twelve elders were seated to either side. Adjudication Elder Murong Huai stood in the hall, in the position second only to the Pope.
"Everyone, Heaven Dou and Star Luo have fallen. Centuries of division have finally come to an end."
Qian Xunji's voice was steady and forceful, making the hanging lamps in the hall sway gently.
"Today's discussion is to establish the foundation of the Spirit Hall Empire. Speak freely. There is no need for restraint."
Murong Chayue was the first to speak, his gaze as sharp as an eagle's. "Your Holiness, in my view, the foremost task after the war is to settle the people's hearts. More than a million soldiers from the two empires died in battle. If their widows and children have no one to rely on, chaos will inevitably arise."
"I propose that twelve relief offices be established in each of the former Heaven Dou and Star Luo territories. Spirit Hall stewards will take the lead, working with former local officials to register every household. The families of fallen soldiers will receive fifteen jin of grain and five Gold Soul Coins every month. Orphans may enter academies affiliated with Spirit Hall, where their food and clothing will be provided and they may cultivate free of charge."
"Widowed mothers will be given priority employment in weaving workshops and factories established by Spirit Hall, and