Muuron: "My fellow council members, I propose that we consider lowering the merchant tax rates in order to attract more trade to our city. This would mean more income for the city overall, and would benefit everyone in the long run."
Zorxus: "I must disagree, Master Merchant. Lowering the tax rates would mean less income for the people of Crinia in the short term, and we cannot afford to sacrifice their well-being for the sake of uncertain gains. Additionally, with the looming threat of war, it is uncertain whether we would even see an increase in trade at all."
Clearmoon: "I see both of your points, but I must side with Master Merchant on this issue. The people of Crinia have always been resilient and adaptable, and I believe they would be able to weather a temporary dip in income in exchange for the potential benefits of increased trade. And as for the war, we cannot let fear hold us back. We must take calculated risks in order to secure our future."
Muuron: nods "I appreciate your support, Bridgemaster. And I understand your concerns, Mayor. But I believe that we must be willing to take risks in order to grow and prosper. We cannot afford to be stagnant and risk being left behind by our rivals."
Zorxus: sighs "I understand your perspective, Master Merchant, but I must insist that we prioritize the well-being of our people above all else. If we do not have their support, then any gains we make from increased trade will be short-lived. We must be careful and cautious in our decision-making, and not let greed cloud our judgement."
Clearmoon: leans forward "I agree that the well-being of our people is of the utmost importance, Mayor. But I also believe that we must be forward-thinking and proactive in order to secure our future. We cannot afford to be complacent and risk being overtaken by other cities. We must strike a balance between caution and ambition."
Muuron: nods "I agree, Bridgemaster. And I believe that lowering the tax rates would be a necessary step in that direction. It would signal to our trading partners that Crinia is open for business, and would attract more trade to our city. It would also give our merchants the opportunity to compete on a level playing field with their rivals from other cities. It is a risk, yes, but I believe it is a risk worth taking."
Zorxus: crosses arms "I still have my reservations, but I see the value in your arguments. Perhaps we can compromise and lower the tax rates slightly, but not to the extent that you propose, Master Merchant. And we must also put measures in place to ensure that the people of Crinia are not disadvantaged by this decision."
Clearmoon: nods "I believe that is a reasonable compromise, Mayor. And I agree that we must take steps to protect our people. We can work together to develop a plan that addresses both of our concerns, and that ensures that the city of Crinia continues to thrive and prosper."