King
Chapter 1459: 13, High Trees Catch Much Wind_2

Chapter 1459: Chapter 13, High Trees Catch Much Wind_2

Count Mitchell diplomatically advised.

In his view, the King had many merits, but his oversight was somewhat overreaching. To some extent, it indeed expanded royal power, yet it also introduced many unnecessary risks.

As a king, there is fundamentally no more room for improvement. Stability should be the priority; there’s no need to rush to prove oneself.

“Palace Minister, I understand your point, but the order must still be issued.

The reform has been ongoing for so long, and this is the most immediate result. With the large-scale adoption of new technology in the upcoming spring planting, everything will be different by the time the autumn harvest comes!”

Caesar IV said slowly.

With different positions, there’s a different way of considering issues. The reformists have taken many actions, but the results have been few and far between.

The greatest achievement might be the abolition of transit taxes between territories, significantly reducing transportation costs and promoting the development of commerce and industry.

Unfortunately, this is a long-term policy, and for a long time in the future, there’s no observable return in fiscal revenue.

Not all nobles have foresight; most nobles are mediocre, lack subjective judgment, and are easily tempted by quick success.

To continue the reforms, the reformists must have an achievement they can present, leaving everyone speechless.

The new agricultural technology was developed by Hudson, but that doesn’t mean he enjoys all the glory alone. As a king, Caesar IV can naturally be involved.

Even if it’s just to increase his presence, this promotional order must be issued.

The small episode concluded, and the Kingdom Government suddenly found itself bustling. The previously despised “fertilizer farming method” suddenly became popular.

Without Hudson having to worry, the reformists from top to bottom actively mobilized. Perhaps lacking a strong leader, the Conservatives didn’t come out to cause trouble.

However, such good days are evidently diminishing. As the reforms delve deeper, more areas are touching upon various interests.

Many nobles whose interests are harmed are reaching the tolerance threshold with the reformists.

Eighty percent of the reform clauses, once transmitted from the central to the local level, directly turned into mere formalities.

Worse still, it’s not only the Conservative nobles resisting reform; even within the reformist camp, divisions have begun to emerge over specific reform issues.

…

“Is the Kingdom Government planning to tax the bank?”

Upon receiving this news, Hudson was momentarily speechless.

As expected, the taller the tree, the more it catches the wind. The Near East Development Bank, without dividends, was running so prosperously that it merely drew envy from outsiders.

Once a huge dividend was distributed, the impoverished Ministry of Finance immediately targeted it. Even though someone merely proposed it for now, without it becoming law, Hudson knew it was just a matter of time before the policy was implemented.

The financial industry is, by nature, the most lucrative business. Especially when there’s no regulation, making money is all too easy.

The Near East Development Bank, which started with a “Ponzi scheme,” eventually turned into a real enterprise because it was too profitable.

Hiding for so long, it was inevitable they’d get noticed. Once the Kingdom taxes the bank, subsequent regulatory policies are also just a matter of time.

Of course, this process could be lengthy. After all, until a financial crisis hits, no one realizes how destructive it can be to the economy.

Intervene?

With the Near East Development Bank’s shareholder makeup, hindering the Kingdom Government from enacting a tax law isn’t particularly challenging.

However, being in the noble circle, Hudson doesn’t have absolute freedom.

Reputation assists one’s career, but beyond a certain point, it also becomes a constraint.

For instance, Hudson’s persona is that of a public-serving Human Marshal, a leader of the Kingdom’s reformists.

Others might obstruct reform for personal gain, but Hudson cannot.

Actively adopting the reformist label isn’t meant for the senior nobles. Those who’ve been in politics for decades require voluntary cooperation; otherwise, Hudson can’t persuade them.

The young generation of nobles are Hudson’s target audience. Coincidentally, most of them are reformist supporters.

No matter whether it’s to save the Kingdom’s finances or further expand his influence, Hudson needs to align himself with the reformists.

Since taking a stand, he can’t play both sides.

If the reformists can reform others’ interests, they can also affect the interests of the reformist Big Shots. If insiders don’t support reform, then the Kingdom’s reforms are impossible.

“Duke, the news came from the Ministry of Finance. It’s said that Earl Rinnares, the Minister of Agriculture, first proposed it, sparking significant disagreement within the Ministry.

But ultimately, the supporters gained the upper hand. However, due to the considerable resistance, it hasn’t yet been brought up for discussion in the Court.

Privately, Earl Rinnares has recently visited several high-ranking ministers of the Kingdom, seeking their support.

Should we take some measures to block Earl Rinnares’s actions?”

Listening to Jose, Hudson felt quite frustrated. Such matters traditionally involve the Ministry of Finance leading the charge. Why is an Agriculture Minister meddling?

Even if involved due to tax reform, having been assigned by the King to assist is understandable, but why be so aggressive?

Hudson quickly realized something was amiss. It seemed he indeed offended Earl Rinnares. Had he not stepped up to seize opportunities, the man would still be a regional power rather than be working under the Minister of Finance.