The business of Gallia, like Gallia itself, is a many-splendored thing. Even during trying times such as these our economy remains vibrant and strong with our gleaming ships being the envy of the other colonies. Gallia’s dazzling envoys of prosperity which illuminate all those who are fortunate enough to receive the bounty of our great nation.
Sadly for every brilliant the light an equally long shadow is cast and within that darkness voices begin to chatter, whispering troublesome rumors and divisive words.
These fresh voices were first heard two years ago when our good and noble king, His Majesty Charles the XI, saw fit to divide the assets of Solar Engineering between the corporations of Ile-de-France Shipping and EFL Oil & Machinery. This simple act caused a wave of paranoia and dissent to sweep the industrial sector as companies grew fearful of who or what would be next. Concerns of “Crown interference” were discussed in hushed tones while rumors of failing loyalty spread from within the dimly lit staff rooms of every company, even our Gallic Metal Service.
One of our long-lived and most beloved corporations, the GMS has fuelled the mineral needs of Gallia for over four hundred years and covers up to ninety five percent of Gallia’s mineral market. It is a company of great riches but that wealth is not hoarded by those with power, the profits are shared among its workers by paying high salaries and offering them support with housing, medical and education services.
Few corporations could ever dream of holding such respect in the economic world and fewer still could ever match the loyalty of its workers.
Despite the passage of time proving doomsayers wrong, the whispers around GMS have not ceased, instead they now speak of expansion beyond Gallia and of quarrels with the Independent Miners Guild whom the King has permitted trade. They talk of disloyalty towards our benevolent Majesty and though the Crown holds only a ten percent stake in Gallic Metal Services, the rumors of forceful takeover and liquidation persist.
One would have thought such speculation would die away after so long without a hint of further action by the Crown, and yet they linger.
Perhaps this is some form of propaganda designed to demonise one of our beacons of prosperity? To divide our loyalty between company and King? A Council plot perhaps? It all remains to be seen.
As always, the Franc marches on■
Editor,Maynard Gusteau
Tags: Gallic Metal Service, Gallia, Economy, Independent Miners Guild.