Currency Reform Plan

Representative currency was paper-based gold and silver, equivalent notes backed by real gold and silver. People trusted it because they trusted real gold and silver.

Credit currency, however, could not be exchanged for gold and silver. Its value was decoupled from precious metals, and its purchasing power came entirely from the state's "promise."

In this age, the greatest question was whether a state's promise could make people believe that a stack of paper could replace money—and even make international trade partners accept it.

"Your Majesty, perhaps you need not worry about that," Patrick said, knowing what Gawain was thinking. "We have data and samples. And in my view, if we want to issue credit currency, now may be the best opportunity."

Gawain looked at Patrick. "...You mean..."

"You once taught us the concept of the state as the main body, so I understand your concerns. Frankly speaking, the newborn empire does not yet possess enough prestige or influence to introduce a new currency decoupled from precious metals throughout the realm. Most of our people do not even have a clear concept of the nation, nor do they have sufficient trust in the Administrative Hall. They certainly do not hold the 'power of the empire' in awe. But... you can do it."

Gawain was stunned for a moment, then suddenly felt like laughing. "You mean my personal prestige as the founding emperor is enough..."

He did not finish the sentence. The latter half stopped on his lips.

Perhaps... it really was enough.

Because those who had only just broken free from Ansu's Royal Authority were still kneeling—even if the Administrative Hall had forced their bodies to stand through laws, the knees in their hearts remained nailed to the ground.

They might not understand what a "motherland" was. They might not understand