Chapter 63: Directory Government - The Power of Money
The economy dominated the agenda of the newly convened National Assembly.
"At this rate, Francia's economy will collapse. The national debt must be addressed immediately."
This impassioned declaration, ironically, caused all eyes to turn to Christine.
The reason? A surprisingly large portion of the Francia Republic's debt was owed to the Aquitaine Company.
"Unfortunately, even the Aquitaine Company can no longer postpone repayment of the principal," Christine interjected sharply, snapping her fan shut with a clack.
The Republic's government had borrowed an immense sum from a mere merchant company and, using the war as an excuse, hadn't repaid a single penny of the principal. Only interest payments had been made, and even those were exceptionally low—a concession granted when the Aquitaine company joined the Republic's government.
"The Aquitaine Company currently manages trade with the Holy Theocracy and supplies goods to the Republic, but without available funds, even that will become difficult."
"Ahem. I understand Countess Aquitaine's position, but everyone is aware of the Aquitaine Company's enormous profits from its trade monopoly. Considering the Republic's situation, could you not grant us more time? The National Assembly needs to recover, and for Francia..."
"I procured magic amplification crystals from the Magic Kingdom for Francia's victory. Did I bill the Assembly? I believe I have personally done more than enough to serve the nation. If other representatives contributed a similar amount, I might consider further support."