⁝ the royal assembly.

gentlemen, i think we need to remember why we were against the idea of international trading in our last major assembly. it was agreed that we need to protect our domestic economy and agriculture. as duke cha mentioned, there are consequences that can occur from heading towards the path of international trade. we have to be careful in consideration of this, for most likely many of our current and potential trade partners will take advantage of our situation. it is most certain, they will raise the prices on essential goods that we seek. we need to consider too, we are at risk of receiving low quality crops too.

if we are to bring in these imported products, we need to place strict restrictions and realism that bring a balance amongst the people. first, we shall recognize that the imports will stabilize the rioters with the newfound food. two, we need to ensure the trade will not negatively impact on our local agriculture and economy in the long run. we need to provide resources for our domestic farmers, who will certainly be hit by the trade and still don’t have answers on their crops. that is why we still need the grain law, we need the research to assist our farmers, so we can prevent such a disaster again and have new ideas going forth. lastly, we still need to give our domestic farmers an edge against the imported goods, especially when we start to see progress in our crops. once we reach that point, we have to consider shutting or slowing these trades or raising the tariffs on them. that way we work towards self sufficiency and give our farmers a fighting chance again. if not, it will put our economy in a limbo.

perhaps, we can cut down on the research’s fund. as duke cha mentioned, use some of it for the trade. however, i’m worried that the majority of us in this room are having tunnel vision, only able to see short-term answers. trading can be a temporary, short-term solution, but not our main answer. we need to consider the future and longterm solutions, but also consequences.

while i agree with the idea of international trading as a solution, trading with our neighbors can indeed secure resources and reduce the effects on the decreased market for crops to feed the people. however, we should still consider the implications of such endeavors.

trading has always been a costly venture. not only should we consider the price of the goods but also the expenses associated with shipping, transportation, and paying the manpower of those doing these jobs. if we agree to pursue international trading to remove the grain laws, that means the people will no longer be burdened by the strain of taxes. however, to cover the costs of what was mentioned earlier it would affect increased prices on imported items and further will lead to inflation that will place a new financial burden on the citizens. as mentioned before, there’s bound to be unhappy people.

i, however, support that international trade does offer a temporary solution to appease the rioters and stabilize the nation for the time being. however, since many of you believe the funds used for research to be a waste of investment, perhaps we can see the taxes being used for trading instead, this will ensure that inflation does not increase drastically and we can maintain a balance that satisfies the people by putting their taxes into putting food on their table and not into the continued research that has not given them the answers they want thus far.

i completely agree. abolishing the grain law without a solid alternative would indeed be risky. exploring both new and previously considered ideas is crucial.

the suggestion to open international trade with our neighboring countries is a wise one. establishing trade agreements can provide us with a steady supply of crops and food, which would immediately help stabilize our markets and reduce taxes, ensuring our people are fed.

additionally, as duke song has said, fostering diplomatic relations through trade can build strong economic partnerships. this not only helps us address the current crisis but also prepares us for future challenges by creating a network of allies who can support each other in times of need. we should seriously consider this path forward.

while i agree that simply abolishing the grain law without a viable alternative risks plunging our nation into further chaos, i would like our fellow assemblymen to explore new and previous ideas.

i propose once again that we look beyond our borders and consider the benefits of opening international trade with our neighboring countries.

firstly, by establishing trade agreements with our neighbors, we can secure a steady influx of crops and food. this immediate relief will help to stabilize the markets, reduce the soaring taxes, and ensure that our people do not go hungry. international trade offers a possible solution to our current shortage, allowing us to import what we cannot produce in sufficient quantities at home in these trying times.

secondly, engaging in trade with neighboring countries can foster stronger diplomatic relations. by building these economic partnerships, we not only address the present crisis but also lay the groundwork for future cooperation and mutual support. this interconnectedness can prove invaluable in times of need, creating a network of allies who can assist each other in times of hardship.

all of these aspects should be very carefully considered indeed, what i am trying to say is that, as we dive into exploring alternative routes and solutions, we must approach this situation in a way that does not further foster division among us. a divide is already clearly established between us and the rioters, abolishing the law may send a message to our people that we are not trying to oppress them any further than they are already. instead, we can focus on instilling hope by shouldering more responsibility and alleviating part of the protester's grievances to show our commitment to their welfare. a demonstration of compassion, than fear.

it is sounds unjust for me too, isn't it too much, for people to suffer because what we agreed on ? we need to think of our people. I just know communication is very important in these matters. or else, it's going to be very difficult. with the riots happening as well. I also don't want them to get hurt.

promising a future free from famine and disease is too reaching as it is not a promise we can ensure will be kept. keeping the grain law and hoping that the people will agree and understand with going longer in their hunger and decreasing funds sounds unjust, if i might say so myself.

although, i do agree with duke cha's suggestion on communicating more with the people may ease some of the tension that are inciting riots to rise. informing the people that research takes time may give them answers to their questions.

i fully support duke cha's statement. we must stick to rational thinking and not give in to superstitions about gods punishing us. the grain law was created to help us find the cause of the crop disease, and abandoning it now would be a mistake. if we remove the grain law without a solid plan, we'll delay finding a solution to the famine. people might waste resources on shamans and rituals, undermining our efforts. to calm the public, we need to explain that the sacrifices made now are for a future without famine and disease. just like what duke cha said, yes, progress is slow, but research takes time. the resources spent are investments in our future.

i fear that the people of our nation whom are already angry with us for the newly implemented grain law will only become increasingly enraged once they learn that the taxes they have paid to aid in the research has returned unfruitful, especially when they are already suffering from the famine. however, revoking the law now would be the best option as to not take even more from their already-scant pockets.

esteemed assemblymen, this is nonsense. whispers of gods punishing the country? we are not a society that seeks answers from higher beings but one that relies on the principles of rational thinking and scholarly endeavors. the grain law was established with the intent to support the research to uncover the cause of the crop disease and abandoning it now would be a grave mistake. once a cure comes to fruition the people will believe that such a cure also came from the gods. are we going to allow them to place such faith and gratitude to superstitious beings that don’t even have mouths in this room?

it is true that the grain law has caused distress, however if we remove the grain law without having an alternative in place, we will only further delay finding a solution to solving the famine. the people who believe that the gods will give them answers would only further drive resources away by paying shamans to exorcise the fields, to sacrifice animals to rid of the disease, all to ridicule the effort that the government is putting into the scientific endeavors and research that is truly our only hope for answers to rid of the disease once and for all.

to quell the rioters, we must instead focus on communicating with the citizens so they understand that the sacrifices being made are only done to allow them and the generations to come a future free from famine and disease. of course, i understand that it is frustrating with the lack of breakthroughs. however, we must not forget that research is often a slow and timely process. the funds and resources allocated to this cause are not wasted; they are investments in the future of this nation. it is crucial that we continue to support the research and prove that we are a nation governed by reason not superstition.

no offense has been taken, duke choi. your passion for the people is respectable and i will also do everything i can to help our people not go hungry.

i agree that the famine is our main concern, however, the problem will only grow if our guards will be too preoccupied containing the riots. we must stop the riots now so that we may focus on the famine even if it means revoking the grain law at this very moment.

i hope you do not find my remarks offensive, marquess song. but i would bleed myself to death before i see our people die due to hunger because we have waited for the gods to ease their anger. i understand it is the rumor going around and it is all the more going to affect the fire within the rioters. it only proves how gravely difficult their situations is to even be resorting to these words of the mouth.

despite the whispers of the gods' anger, let it be known that our researchers will continue their efforts. however, i agree with duke choi and duke park. we must address the current dire situation and the growing anger of our people, as it risks leading to more violent riots on our streets. innocent people will get hurt, and i do not believe that our men here will stand for it.

the gods may be angry but it is not a logical reason for us to stand idly by trying to grasp at straws and beg for their forgiveness. all the more reason indeed to revoke such a law that breaks the morale of the people suffering. we can pray all we want but a realistic solution should be executed to keep our people from starving.

if the grain law has not reaped any progress from our researchers, then all the more to revoke it?

my dukes and lords, it is to my understanding that, unfortunately, there has not been any progress from our esteemed researchers. despite the monetary support from our end, they remain stumped in their efforts. there are whispers among them suggesting that the gods are angry with what has become of our country and that we are being punished. i pray that we can come together to prove to the gods that we do not deserve such punishment.

what i would also like to know, if there is any information yet released, is what kind of progress our researchers have made regarding uncovering the root of the crop disease. can anyone currently here offer any intel?

we conclude that there is widespread confusion and misunderstanding among our people. i concur with marquess seol that the rioters are expressing their concerns about their livelihood and it is crucial for us to find alternative solutions rather than relying on inflicting fear. they are already hungry and fear-stricken by what is currently happening. it is essential to address the contempt and anger of the people to ensure that we're moving towards the better rather than just adding another problem to what is currently at hand.

we previously raised this possibility during the discussion over the grain law, and now that it has proved its alleged disadvantages, it has become evident that's only fair we explore an alternative approach and abolish the law that has only presented us with more difficulties than serving as an effective solution.

i do not believe arresting rioters will solve any of the issues at hand. if anything, doing such might exacerbate matters that already cannot be contained as there are too many who are upset by the new grain law. i hardly believe that our prisons hold the capacity to retain them all.

i concede with what duke chae has suggested in REMOVING the grain law. while it has worked favorably for its purpose in aiding research of the disease, it has also imposed a great strain in the peace amongst the people. if we are to 'justify' the means with the end goal in mind with the riots, i'm afraid we may not have a nation to celebrate with once the root of the disease has been ascertained.

while fighting our own is not a new predicament, it should not be a regular occurrence or our first option thought of. i may not be as well versed as the rest of you here in the ways of pen and paper, but i know better than to fight the same people we fought a war for. the same people we sacrifice our lives for and swear to protect. what will we accomplish by fighting them? if we head down that path… i am not certain i will follow those orders and i know my men will agree. we will not harm our people because us, “nobility”, cannot find an answer. the people are in the state that they are now because they're desperate and want to survive, more so than what we will ever experience in our fancy offices and estates.

unfortunately, there were bound to be unhappy people no matter the conclusion of our previous discussion. although the riots are regrettable, it is minimal compared to the famine that affects the larger population of this nation. the areas in which these riots are being demonstrated should be contained, therefore deploying troops to arrest rioters are necessary to maintain order and prevent them from spreading and growing out of control. not only are the rioters a risk to the peace of this nation, but they are a risk to innocent civilians as well. to quell the anger of the people, sending temporary relief packages in these affected areas can pacify their demands, but it demonstrates that the government is attentive to their unhappiness.

the purpose of the grain law, as previously discussed, was to fund the research for the disease of crops. we all knew that it would take an indefinite amount of time before we have answers, however i agree that we should revisit the grain law to refine its terms, however i don't propose that it should go away as time is crucial and holding back funds to this research will further delay the answers we all so desperately need.

i agree with duke jin on the idea of trading. once more, since resources are becoming scarce upon the lands of our nation, trading crops from other nations can relieve the shortage we are experiencing. but this also is a costly financial burden, which is why i don't see the grain law going away, the people are starving and it is crucial to secure food on their table, so they must be prepared to pay the price to have their fill.

duke jin, i can tell you understand the citizens’ sentiments and reasoning for the riots. you said it yourself that there is a high possibility of angering the public through these arrests. they are suffering and we cannot let them down even further. instead of arresting or censoring them, there has to be another way of appeasing them.

while having relief packages available nationwide would be a great solution, it would be a difficult task. we need to expect each package be of the same standard nationwide, but we cannot ask more of the people to give and i am uncertain of how much we can provide. we still need to maintain some of our supplies in case of emergencies. still if we have the means, i hope it is something to consider.

in regards to the riots, it seems simple, but we should hold town hall meetings across the nation. it is easy for us to assume the people’s problems, but if we open up communication, it can give us a better understanding for their riots. also it might provide us different solutions that we wouldn’t be able to think of, considering that we are not on the grounds with the citizens round the clock. their experience could be richer than anything we research or study. it is difficult to make this request of our queen, but if she or senior officials are at these meetings, it gives a clear message that our court is listening and considering them. listening is a powerful tool, which is what is needed across the country now.

my fellow noblemen, to no one’s surprise, the taxes are taking their toll on the people. we have all felt or seen its effect in some form. however, as agreed in our last assembly, the grain law has a purpose. while it is noble of you, duke chae, to consider abolishing the grain law, it is not feasible. adjusting it would be best. we did not raise taxes or implement this law as a collective nation to fatten our pockets, but instead to use these funds to find our answers. it is understandable that some research will take longer than desired, but we cannot stop it at this moment. i hope each office could provide some results. however, we should abide by a strict deadline, which should create an incentive for somewhat faster, but still just as desirable findings. we can only hope that this shows the people we are serious about ending these temporary statutes in the near future.

we should consider trading and exporting. through these extra funds, it can speed up the research process or purchase seedlings to grow new crops. what we should be cautious of is other nations taking advantage of our situation, who will more than likely lowball us.

as for the current riots, it is best we monitor the news flow between regions. the easiest answer to quash these riots is to arrest them before they can grow, nip them at the source. however, it puts us at major risk of angering the people more. for that, i say by monitoring and limiting information, it does not encourage the desire for the riots. it is not a desirable proposal, but we need to consider the ends justifying the means. we all know that these riots will only amplify the situation.

we truly do have to fight our own then… well this isn’t necessarily a new predicament. [ frowns ]

(murmurs) Riots. . .enforcing the new law was too early, after all?

My fellow assemblymen, while we've previously foreseen the possibility of this outcome, with no current silver lining seen for this research—that is also to say we cannot rush researchers for immediate results—perhaps it is best to visit the Grain law once more: to adjust or simply revoke it all together. These riots /has/ caused casualties despite it not being heavy, however, I worry that it will only a matter of time before heavy casualties are reported.

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@✿ song jihoo @✿ seol taejoon @✿ seol minhwan @✿ seol juhwan [h] @✿ ryu songmin @✿ ryu minho @✿ park yeongho @✿ park yeonghan @✿ oh sejin @✿ oh jiyong @✿ moon jaehoon @✿ kim yejoon @✿ jin jaeyong @✿ jin jaeha @✿ jang ilwoo @✿ jang ilseong @✿ go youngjae @✿ geum hangyeol [h] @✿ choi siwoo [h] @✿ chae seongyeom @✿ cha kiwoon @✿ cha jiwoong @✿ baek junwoo 〖 NOTE FOR ALL 〗
An official event has started. Please refrain from posting in this room (whether to start or reply to any threads) until the first assembly has concluded. Thank you!

〖 IC 〗

Tensed, knowing murmurs filled the grim assembly hall. Electrified and cold glances were exchanged between the gathered ministry officials of two factions as they await the Queen to open the assembly. "Respected Members of the Assembly," her majesty began, the assembly falling silent. Shadows painted her visage, expression unreadable while her voice remained solemn. "We are once more gathered to address the current predicament our nation has fallen into."

"The cabinet had received continuous reports of complaints from our people regarding the new enforced law." Layer by layer, the weight of responsibility had settled over the Queen's shoulders for every complaint the cabinet put forward by day. "Small bout of riots had risen in the few points across nation and within the Hanseong walls itself. While no extreme casualties were reported, we cannot ignore the chances of its heartbreaking news in the impending future."

The Queen paused, letting the immediate state of emergency sink. "As researchers has yet to conclude their research on the source of the illness plaguing our crops, I beseech you to lend your wisdom and expertise once more to quell the unease of our nation in hopes to prevent future chaos happening within the land of Joseon."

Her Majesty nodded to the assembly in determination; her trust towards her advisors to further forge a path in these dire times, unwavering.

〖 OOC 〗
Political officials, you have been summoned to serve your duty once again. To reiterate, based on your character’s allegiance and the faction's viewpoint, they should be steering the discussion toward a certain way.

To our Soron politicians, your faction will petition to repeal the previously enforced Grain Law. It is now obvious the rise of taxes had ruffled the nation even more and the small bouts of riots will eventually summon bigger riots. Revoking the law seem to be the best option to immediately ease the nation and prevent irreversible casualties.

To our Noron politicians, your faction will stand by the Grain Law. The law has been enforced and agreed by all, its outcome expected. Perhaps aside from the law, there are other solutions such as the previously brought up idea of exporting basic commodities to other nations can come into play. Or raise the taxes once more, to put the common folks in place?

There is no right or wrong way to proceed with the assembly, so you should do what feels the most right for your respective characters. We would like to underline that opinions of the characters do not represent opinions of their respective muns. May the best faction prevail. Discussion will end on MAY 24 10 PM PST / MAY 25 2PM GMT +8.

Please PM Queen Min with any questions or concerns.

Tension crackled within the resplendent hall; the push and pull of ideas proposed from each Faction creating friction. As the discussion has come to a close, the Queen rose from her majestic throne, standing before the Royal Assembly. The weight of decision moving forward in times of famine bears heavily upon her shoulders as she addressed the politicians once more.

"Esteemed Members of Royal Assembly." Her voice reverberated against the walls, tone heavy with a sorrowful determination, laced with caution of enforcing a new law. "A conclusion of the majority has been brought forth, in which all citizen—regardless of class—will be subjected to an increase of taxes. 10% across all cheonmin and sangmin citizens. 10% across all jungin and yangban, with an addition of 5% temporary cut from their income."

The Queen resumed, "The collected taxes will henceforth be allocated to assist the research of the unknown crop disease as it is impertinent to come to the root of the problem. Furthermore, the government will provide reliefs and open housing food shelter to affected regions."

The Queen paused as she scanned the faces of the officials and with a heavy heart, she concluded, "I understand the concern of the outcome this decree will bring to the nation. As I dismiss this assembly, I urge you to remain vigilant to the voices of our people to swiftly alleviate their sufferings. May our efforts shed light to the cause of the crop disease and may the sacrifices made will blossom to a better nation and strengthen the bond of the citizen in this dire times."

〖 NOTE FOR ALL 〗
The first monthly royal assembly has concluded. Feel free to post in this room (whether to start or reply to any threads). Thank you!

Dearest Lord’s of every single household, I am Marchioness Oh Bitna from The House of Blue Lion, though I am but a woman, may I be so bold to kindly interject and share my opinions on this famine we are currently facing during this dire time. While I remain quiet here as I am silently listening to all of your declarations, it has dawned on me that our people are indeed suffering many great casualties despite our best efforts we share with one another here to find a resolution, and I am sure everyone simply seeks the same goal when it comes down to helping mankind fight for their survival. The cause of this tragedy is definitely concerning. We know that raising taxes on all classes is one thing, but so is offering more to the sufferings. Pockets are not made of holes, but surely, eventually, all classes will reach their limits. One cannot guarantee survival for another, if they do not first make sure they are in the position to be offering their aid to those in need. Help is the key to solve this maze but I suggest it is done through careful consideration. I agree with Duke Moon, time is truly of essence. Should we proceed thoughtlessly, we will not earn the result we wish to see.

Then we should probably conclude this debate now that the arguments on whether the common folk deserve aid or further taxation have been exhausted. I suggest that we consolidate the points that received strong agreement from the assembly and draft a final proposal. Time is of the essence.