"I like how you present your ideas, Mr. Teucher. Perhaps crafted and elaborated by your party members who seemingly had sent you over here because you were the one who was good at speaking. But I'm not an idealistic person, a banker has never been an idealistic person."
"Oh…they are not the ones who made those ideas, it was mine. And I don't think being idealistic is a drawback in banking—or in any field, for that matter. Practicality has its place, but without a vision, we stagnate," Ernest countered calmly, maintaining eye contact with Becker. "My background isn't just in rhetoric. I've studied economic models and strategies extensively. The approaches I've discussed are grounded in proven fiscal policies that consider both immediate needs and long-term sustainability."
Becker paused, then nodded slightly, his expression showing respect. "That's an impressive stance, Mr. Teucher. So, you're telling me that these aren't just pie-in-the-sky ideas but are actionable plans? You seem quite confident about their viability."
"Absolutely," Ernest affirmed. "These are not only viable but necessary actions. For example, improving tax collection isn't just about increasing government revenue; it's about fairness and efficiency. As for overhauling the currency, while radical, if managed correctly, it could reset the economic baseline and give us a platform to build a more balanced economy."
Becker looked thoughtful, clearly considering Ernest's points. "Well, Mr. Teucher, you've given me quite a bit to think about. Perhaps, even a guaranteed donation from me. How much do you need?"
"Depends on you, sir," Ernest said.
"How does 5,000,000 Creitsmark sound?"
"It is a generous contribution. Five million Creitsmarks can go a long way in supporting our party's efforts. With that amount, we could fund extensive campaigns to spread our message, organize community events, and even invest in necessary infrastructure."
Becker seemed satisfied with Ernest's response. "I'm glad you see the value in it. It's enough to cover a significant portion of your party's operating costs, isn't it?"
"Absolutely," Ernest nodded.
"Come visit me in the office tomorrow and get your funds," Dietrich said.
"Will do, sir. Thank you very much."
The gentlemen exchanged hands and then after that, Ernest moved to his next elites. Elites after elites, Ernest was able to sell his vision of a revitalized Crentis in impassioned and charismatic words that allowed him to get him 1 to 6 million Creitsmark.
In total, he was able to secure a funding of 57 Creitsmark, which is more than enough to acquire a failing newspaper company, revamp its operations, and fund the party's other initiatives.
It had been a productive day for him. And now he had to pass the time by eating an assortment of confectioneries displayed on the dessert table at the cocktail party. The array of treats, ranging from delicate pastries to rich chocolates, was impressive.
Ernest picked a few selections and brought them to his table. Once he was alone, he tried each one of them and all of them had a delightful taste, which is rare in the public as most of the time, they'll have to get by with bread and soup due to the economic crisis Crentia was facing.
Ernest knew that the funding he secured was a crucial first step, but it would take more than money to bring about real change. He needed to gain the trust of the public and rally them around the party's vision. This required clear communication, a consistent message, and a focus on practical solutions to Crentia's problems.
As he finished his desserts, Ernest glanced around the ballroom. The crowd had thinned out, with most guests heading toward the exits. He stood up, straightened his suit, and made his way toward the hotel entrance.
***
Two days later.
In the Party Headquarters, the heads of the party convened.
"So, Ernest, how was the fundraising campaign?"
Ernest set down his briefcase on the table and took a seat, nodding to the other heads of the party.
"It was successful," he replied. "I managed to secure commitments totaling 57 million Creitsmark."
"57 million!?" Kleist exclaimed. "How were you able to manage to secure that kind of money?"
"I used my charisma," Ernest replied with a hint of modesty, "and a well-crafted pitch." He opened his briefcase and pulled out a stack of documents, the proof of the substantial commitments he'd gathered at the cocktail party.
Anton Weber leaned back in his chair, clearly impressed. "There is this newspaper company called The Crentian Tribune," he said, raising his eyebrows. "It's struggling financially, but it has a decent readership. With 57 million Creitsmark, we could buy it and turn it into our party's mouthpiece. What do you think, Ernest?"
"That seems good, prepare for an acquisition. I believe that jobs belong to," Ernest shifted his gaze toward Hoffman.
"I'll begin communication with the company's current owners and prepare the necessary paperwork," Hoffman replied. "We'll want to move quickly before other parties catch wind of our plans."
Ernest nodded. "Good. The sooner we have control of the Tribune, the better."
With the meeting coming to a close, the party heads began to gather their things and prepare to leave. Ernest, however, had something on his mind. He waited until the others had left the room, then approached Kleist, who was busy organizing his notes.
"Kleist, could I have a word with you in private?" Ernest asked, keeping his voice low.
Kleist looked up, slightly surprised by the request. "Of course, Ernest. What is it?"
Ernest gestured toward a quieter corner of the room, away from any lingering party members. Once they were out of earshot, he spoke with a more serious tone.
"I have written a book titled Crentian Awake. It revolves around the Party's message. To put an end to the payments demanded by the coalition forces and to restore the lands taken away from us by the Treaty of Fontaine. And some encouraging words for them to join the party."
"So that's the piece you want to publish in the newspaper the moment we acquired the newspaper company?" Kleist asked, his curiosity piqued.
"Yes," Ernest replied.
Kleist nodded, considering Ernest's words. "If you're planning to mass-produce it, we'll need the Tribune's printing presses running at full capacity. I think I'm capable of doing it."
"I appreciate it. With this, our membership will rise exponentially again," Ernest said.