Chapter 7

――It's been a month since I took in the "injured slave." The number of slaves has skyrocketed from a few to about a hundred.

Oh no, I went too far!!! I got carried away!!!

When I healed their injuries, they cried and thanked me, and the villagers praised me, saying, "Lady Rize, you're so kind!" So, without thinking about the consequences, I ended up gathering so many of them!

But, it's okay, I guess. With the unlimited supply of food and wood, the Baybalon territory is developing at an alarming rate. There's a high demand for labor everywhere.

But as a result, my wallet is completely empty. Oh, what a mess I've made, being such a competent lord.

Now, I have to raise the tax rate and take more money from everyone... but that's scary, yeah.

Recently, everyone has been working diligently, but they are, after all, the beasts of Baybalon. They'll probably come to kill me the moment they find out the tax rate has increased.

――So, I'll keep the tax rules the same: "When you have some extra, give me a tenth of your profit or a little bit of food." I don't know what the other territories are like, but this rule has been passed down since my grandfather's time, so I'll cherish and uphold it!

Just as I was using my brain in the study, one of the former slave maids hesitantly spoke to me.

"Excuse me, my lord. I brought some sliced apples... Am I disturbing you?"

"No, it's fine. I was just thinking about the finances a bit."

"R-Really!? I'm sorry, my lord! I'm so sorry for interrupting your noble thoughts!"

"Haha, don't worry about it. I was just using my brain and now I feel like having something sweet."

And I already have the answer. After using my brain, I came to the noblest conclusion: "Well, let's just keep things as they are."

Because trying to change the rules would be tiring and might cause resistance, but doing nothing means zero risk. I'm a genius, aren't I?

...But, you know, I still want money. What should I do?

While thinking about this, I took a slice of apple and put it in my mouth. That's when I thought:

"By the way, these are the ones I bought when I went to the neighboring 'Bonclay' territory. I remember that place is known for its apple production."

"Y-Yes... The apples from there are famous throughout the country..."

When I mentioned Bonclay, the maid's face slightly clouded over. I remember she was sold from Bonclay, so maybe I said something wrong.

Anyway, I had a great idea!

Now, my healing magic can make seeds grow instantly. And with just a single leaf, I can mass-produce plants of the exact same quality!

Alright, I've decided! I'll copy the best apples from Bonclay and secretly sell them cheaply in their territory!

This is bound to be a huge profit! Rize is so smart!!!

When I told the maid about this plan, her cloudy expression brightened up, and she enthusiastically grabbed my hand, saying, "Let's do it! We must do it!!!"

◆ ◇ ◆

"――What is this, it's so delicious! Give me five of these apples!"

"I want ten!"

Ha ha ha ha ha! The plan I came up with was a huge success!

Since I can copy hundreds of apples, I generously let the visitors try them, and they all said, "It's delicious!" and bought a lot!

Ah, the customers looked so happy. After all, they got the best apples from Bonclay at regular prices!

And with the money I made, I bought more "injured slaves" and healed them, and they all thanked me!

Hehehe, making money is so fun! I'm making a profit and I'm happy! The customers are happy! And the slaves who were bought are happy, and everyone is smiling!

I wonder if I should copy the best tea leaves and fur products from Bonclay next!

With my healing magic, I can mass-produce the materials, and there are skilled beast people who excel in processing plants and furs! They can make something indistinguishable from the original! If I sell them cheaply, the customers from Bonclay will be even happier!

Hmph, Lord of Bonclay! Be grateful to this healing, heartwarming lord, Lady Rize! Ha ha ha ha ha! Peace!

※Many famous stores in Bonclay territory were forced to close.