Gold vs. Paper ( 312 )

Garius leaned back, rubbing his chin.

"Our church and everything… the budget is already set, right?"

Alf nodded.

"Yes, my lord."

"Our priests have already refused any extra funding."

Garius raised an eyebrow.

"Oh?"

Alf smirked slightly.

"They said the current budget is more than enough. The salaries for the church staff and the improvements you've already funded—

They don't need more."

Erinnete sighed.

"Even the holy men know excess wealth is pointless in Armand."

Hesbeirn grinned.

"They're probably afraid if they take more, you'll start making them work harder!"

Garius chuckled.

Alf continued.

"And the people… they refuse to take any more aid from us."

Garius narrowed his eyes.

"Refuse?"

Alf grinned.

"They say the lowest tax rate you set already makes them feel happy and free."

"High income, low cost of living—"

"They have no complaints."