BXBX NOVEL Chapter 67.3
“You’re getting me into trouble, Baron Radnor. Paying taxes is a fundamental part of the Empire. I’m sure that you are aware of this as a noble.”
Ludwig said to the middle-aged man standing before him. They were in the manor of the Baron of Radnor. The baron’s face looked as if he has eaten something bitter, it was obvious that he wasn’t pleased to see Ludwig.
“As you can see, here is the amount that you reported to the Golden Moon Ministry…”
Ludwig said as he handed over a piece of parchment with numbers written on it.
“…and here is the tax revenue that you actually collected from your territory. I’m sure you will notice the discrepancy. That should tell you the purpose of my visit today…”
Ludwig stopped himself from adding, “you thieving bastard” but he could not keep it in and instead tsk could be heard. He has to waste parchment for this one after all. And parchment isn’t cheap.
“Certainly, I understand. It’s not that I do not want to pay, you know…”
Lord Radnor answer while barely managing to smile as he was looking at the parchment.
“… If Lord Bluemoon were to hear of this, I can’t help to think what would happen.”
Lord Bluemoon is one of the Four Dukes of Tearmoon, and he is the leader of the faction that Baron Radnor belongs to.
“He would surely wonder why a good friend of his is being harassed by taxes. Surely you understand what I mean.”
Baron Radnor tried to look as intimidating as he can be, but Ludwig only shrugged.
“Of course. I am totally aware that if Lord Bluemoon were to learn that a tax issue was going to endanger his relationship with Her Highness, it would be problematic… for you.”
While saying this, Ludwig looked at Radnor over his glasses. Seeing that his threat was useless against Ludwig, Radnor started feeling uneasy. He started to understand what Ludwig is truly saying to him. If Duke Bluemoon hears about this, then the Duke has to choose between Baron Radnor or Princess Mia. The choice will be quite obvious.
In reality, of course, the Duke of Bluemoon would surely be filing a formal complaint if he hears that a lowly Golden Moon official was harassing a noble from his own faction. Even with the backing of Princess Mia, Duke Bluemoon is still a formidable foe.
The Four Dukes hold great influence and power in the Empire that even the Princess herself has to tread lightly around them. Even more so for a mere government official like Ludwig. That is why Ludwig had to project confidence. Any signs of apprehension might allow Radnor to see through him.
Noticing that the baron was shaken, Ludwig continued his attack.
“I am just asking that the correct amount be paid. The discrepancy between your original report and your… late payment is not a big concern. Her Highness has no intention of taking issue with such matters. As I can remember her saying, ‘Anyone can make a mistake’.”
Ludwig was giving the baron a clear hint that as long as he pays up, then he was willing to let the whole thing slide. Instead of submitting a false tax return, the incident will be recorded as an error in accounting or in recording. It would be seen as a delayed payment instead of tax evasion. It was the perfect example of carrot-and-stick. Baron Radnor immediately bit it.
He put on a humble smile…
“Then in that case, I shall have the money prepared immediately. You travelled a long way here, I can’t have you go back empty handed, can I? Also, if you can, when you see Her Highness, I would really appreciate it if you can put in a good word in for me.”
“Very well. I will see to it.”
Ludwig gave one final disgusted glance at Radnor before turning away. He let out a deep sigh…