Chapter 164 (1)
Early release for the weekend, enjoy!
After the dwarven delegation left, the Emperor called for his financial advisor, who also held a personal relationship with him.
In contrast to their public roles, the Emperor treated the advisor with a hint of respect in private settings.
This was the Emperor's courtesy to someone who had recognized his position in the empire.
"Do you think the dwarves will give up easily? What's your opinion?"
"As I mentioned before, a war with the dwarves is inevitable. It's bound to happen."
"It does seem that way."
The Emperor recalled the dwarven delegation that had left with a scowl.
'If they consider our long-standing alliance, there might be a chance to avoid war... but if it's a conflict of interests intertwined with gold, it's probably going to be difficult. War seems unavoidable.'
"So, it's a war. As you know, we've had the Crown War, and my late elder brother left behind various issues, so the imperial family currently doesn't have the resources to wage a full-scale war against the dwarves."
The Emperor continued with a deep sigh.
"But we can't give up that land easily either. It's quite a headache."
"You don't need to worry too much about the money."
"Are you planning to support all of it?"
The advisor, Rockefeller, smiled faintly.
"Even if our guild and family are the wealthiest in the empire, we can't be richer than a nation's royal family. Even if we help to some extent, there will be limits."
The Emperor raised a question.
"What do you mean? Didn't you say earlier that we don't have to worry?"
"Of course. That's why I'm going to propose another suggestion."
The Emperor listened intently to what he had to say.
"But that's not your way, is it?"
If the First Prince had become the Emperor, plundering would have been the first method to fill the empire's financial gaps.
The First Prince was known for his love of war.
"The sword pointed at others will eventually turn back to oneself, so I am also against plundering."
"Then there's only one way left."
"Government bonds..."
Rockefeller relaxed his expression and spoke.
"Fortunately, there have been no issues related to government bonds in the empire so far. As you mentioned, the imperial family has been reluctant to issue government bonds."
"Yes, I'm aware of that too. So, issuing government bonds right now shouldn't be a problem."
"Plundering is a barbaric act that even orcs would do. It's not suitable for educated people like us."
"I agree. The empire's way of doing things needs to change."
The Emperor, who had grown up under the influence of two families, was even more determined in this regard.
"I want to live in a more peaceful and quiet world. At least during my reign."
"Then you should issue more government bonds to cover the financial shortage."
It was ridiculous to discuss the importance of the Montefeltro territory in this situation.
The discovery of the largest gold vein on the continent explained everything.
"So, are you suggesting that I issue a large number of government bonds?"
"The risks associated with issuing government bonds can be easily resolved by winning the war. It's very simple."
"But what if we lose that war?"
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