Kiara looked at Alexander for a moment before answering his question.
"Why not grant the mining rights to a third party and let them deal with the trouble? The crown can simply collect its share of the profits."
Her suggestion was so unexpected that several people at the table stared at her in surprise.
Alexander raised his eyebrows, intrigued. "Go on."
Kiara nodded and explained her idea without any hesitation.
"Put the mine up for auction and invite wealthy merchants, business owners, and organisations from across the empire to participate. Whoever wins the auction receives the mining rights for fifty years, a hundred years, or whatever period the crown considers appropriate. The agreement can also specify how the profits will be divided. Six to four, seven to three, eight to two, or any other ratio the crown considers fair."
She took a sip of juice before continuing, her tone as casual as if she were discussing an ordinary business transaction.
