Chapter 15

"Still, Lady Iris has quite a nerve, doesn't she?"

On the way back in the carriage, Moneda said as much. Currently, in the carriage are myself, Moneda, and Sebastian. Outside the carriage, Dida sits with the driver.

"Oh, how rude. I was quite nervous too, you know."

"Really? You didn't seem nervous at all. Besides, proposing a business deal to that group was something I never thought we'd do."

"Then, why do you think I called them?"

"Well, to report on the establishment of the bank, I suppose..."

"I already did that."

"No, that's not what I mean... I'm saying..."

I couldn't help but laugh. I was quite nervous too, and I'm well aware of how precarious the situation was. After all, I spent three solid weeks preparing the materials, and I tried to cover all the details as thoroughly as possible... but it's a completely new venture. I was on edge, wondering what questions they would ask and what points they would raise.

"But why don't you use the bank's deposits to establish the academy? Even if it means postponing road construction..."

"Trade and circulation are inseparable. By improving the flow of goods, the flow of money will also improve... If we start on this early, and the business brings funds to the people, it will make it easier for children to attend the academy, won't it?"

Of course, the elementary school will be completely free. However, I don't think they would be willing to part with their valuable workers, especially in the border regions. If so, by using a public works project like road construction to distribute funds to the people and stimulate the economy, it could silence their objections.

"The clever ones among them must realize that road construction is one of the sweets. Logistics will improve, and during the construction, there will be orders for necessary tools and food for the workers... Their pockets should be well-lined by the project. With that extra money, they can invest, gain favor with the Duke, and even transfer the rights to new products. ...Thinking this way, I thought they might be interested. The rest is just holding my ground so I don't get overwhelmed."

"Miss, you thought this through so thoroughly..."

"Oh, did you think I hadn't thought about it at all?"

"No, I wouldn't say that much..."

"Really? Then, Moneda, as soon as we get back, you'll start the bank at the headquarters. Accepting deposits, opening accounts, and all the procedures will follow the pre-rehearsal. Then, secure the funds for road construction. ...In other words, Moneda, you should expect no days off for a while. It's going to be busy."

"That's what I want."

"Sebastian, you'll be busy too. Talk with Reim, decide the order of construction, and then work on making the roads more efficient. Also, calculate the construction costs and prepare the application documents."

"Understood. I've already discussed with Lord Reim and calculated the costs. All that's left is to submit the application."

"Of course, Sebastian. Submit the application to me. I'll review it immediately. If it's good, I'll pass it to Moneda, and we'll start right away."

………………………………………………………………

My name is Sebastian. I don't have a family name, but I take pride in serving the noble house of the Duke of Armenia for generations.

My job is to manage the mansion and, in the absence of the Duke, who usually serves as the Prime Minister in the capital, to manage the domain. The domain I serve is vast and rich, so I haven't had to work too hard... until now.

Since Miss took over as the acting lord, my peaceful life has completely changed. In one word, it's busy. That's all there is to it. I have been managing both the mansion and the domain simultaneously... and I was often asked by my fellow servants, "When do you ever rest?" I can only admire the amount of work Miss does.

To be honest... when Miss first returned, I thought she would leave everything to me. But Miss, upon her return, first had me submit financial reports and domain management reports, read them at an incredible speed, and then went on energetic inspections.

After that, she established a chamber of commerce, quickly amassed wealth, and is now working tirelessly on domain reforms. I often wonder when she sleeps, let alone rests.

Her work volume and precise instructions are so impressive that they move me beyond surprise. I would not hesitate to push my old bones to the limit for this person. ...I look forward to the future we will achieve by supporting this person.

The only concern is that Miss has been looking a bit tired lately. She says it's because she's trying to lose weight... but I suspect it's not just about losing weight; it's also from fatigue. The future of our domain undoubtedly rests on Miss's shoulders. Her presence is growing more and more significant every day.

I must support Miss so she doesn't collapse.

I'll tell the head chef to prepare Miss's favorite dish today. ...Yes, I was thinking about this on the way back from the Commercial Guild.