Southern Suburb of Paris.
Agricultural Ministry Breeding Base.
Joseph looked at the endless stretch of green before him, feeling as if he himself was filled with vitality.
All the crops here are newly bred triploid beets, and after this year's harvest, the seeds will provide all of Europe with their supply.
Of course, what's here in Paris is just a small part; the provinces of Champagne and farther north are the main production areas for beets.
Last week, the Agricultural Ministry reported to him that once Prussia learned that France's high-sugar-content beet seeds were available for sale, they immediately and without hesitation ordered nearly 4,000 hectares worth of seeds.
Moreover, as if fearing France would renege, they paid the full amount immediately after signing the contract.
It's no wonder the Prussians were so excited; last year, the small amount of beets they secretly planted brought in over 600,000 thalers, which is around 2 million francs.