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Some pillow talk followed as you both regained your composure. The subject of the letters, merchants, gold, and business was all considered.
"...yes, the markets have been stagnant in Aquataine since their revolt was put suppressed all those years ago. Currently only their agricultural sector keeps them relevant." Ayane said. "It's not too surprising. Many within Westphalia haven't seen Aquataine as a trustworthy place to start industry ever since the rebellion. And the Grand Machinist running rampant across much of the Continent didn't help much either."
"You mentioned that industry booms were a common trend around this part of the world." You reminded her of an earlier comment she made some time ago.
"To an extent, yes. But I also mentioned how industry tends to stagnate without materials. As you're aware, iron is always in demand in the Continent. But the sheer number of uses it has leads to its scarcity. And that doesn't even touch rarer minerals like orichalcum, mithril, mirror metal, hihiirokane, and so on. While Eastians have more natural metals than the Westphalians, both countries have their own ways of combating potential shortages; the Westphalians with their colonies and the Eastians with their client states."
"Same goes for Oceanippon, right?"
"Hmm, yes, but it isn't as extreme." She cuddled closer to you. "There isn't much of a need for materials since the current military is dwarfed by the other major powers."
"I'm sure there's some sort of program that Oceanippon uses to gain momentum." If your knowledge of Japanese history was accurate then Oceanippon was gonna start conquering places pretty soon, if they hadn't already.
"There is. Have you heard of Fukoku kyohei?" Ayane asked.
After you shook your head she explained that it was a recently adopted state-philosophy within Oceanippon. It translated to 'Enrich the Country, Strengthen the Armed Forces'. It was part of a greater concept called 'Line of Advantage', which suggested that Oceanippon's safety relied on its strength.
"In Oceanippon it's common to believe that momentum must be kept going until the nation can safely stand on its own against any foreign powers." She continued.
"And the reason you see kitsune corporations is because of these efforts to have Oceanippon catch up to the rest of the world." You guessed.
"An astute observation, Master." Ayane smiled. "There might be some substance to Ruby's claim that nothing escapes your sight."
"No comment." You grinned in return. "Anyway, where do the Mistubishi and Yasuda clans fit in all of this?"
