Chapter 12

Led by the guild master Benedict, Noein entered the reception room of the building, bringing only Yuri as his attendant and guard.

After making Yuri stand behind him, Noein sat down on an expensive-looking sofa, and Benedict also sat opposite him across the table.

As a young employee served tea to the two of them and left the room, the discussion began. Although the number of items for trade was small and the transaction was light, this was Noein's first business negotiation.

"Thank you for visiting our guild today, Lord Alquvist."

"Thank you for your kind reception despite only bringing in furs and magic stones from monsters in the forest. Guild Master Miles."

"Please call me Benedict. If there is anything I can do for you in the future, I would be grateful if you would let me know..."

It seemed to Noein that Benedict intended to maintain a good relationship with him.

If Noein succeeded as a pioneering noble, the Miles Guild, which had a close relationship with him from the beginning, would have a chance to make money. If Noein failed, they could easily cut ties. For Benedict, it would be a wonderful relationship with no drawbacks.

He didn't seem foolish enough to ruin this opportunity to connect with a young noble who could become a golden egg just for a few furs and magic stones.

Noein had also anticipated this and approached this well-reputed guild.

"Regarding the items you brought, one pelt of a Plumpdear, eight pelts of a Gratni Rabbit, and the corresponding magic stones... How about a total of 5800 reublos?"

The offer was slightly higher than Noein had expected.

"I would like to accept that amount. It is more than we expected, and we are grateful."

"Since I hope to maintain a close relationship with you in the future, I consider this a learning experience."

"Thank you. I look forward to working with you in the future, Mr. Benedict."

Noein smiled and responded to Benedict, who maintained a likable smile.

...

"Ah, I was so nervous."

"Stop lying, you still had that smug look on your face."

Despite his words, Yuri couldn't help but respond to Noein, who maintained his usual laid-back expression.

"No, really? I've never done a proper negotiation before, and I was trying hard not to be seen as a foolish young man. That guild master seems to be a decent merchant, so it looks like we'll have a long-term relationship. Even a simple conversation like this can't go wrong."

"You seemed to handle it well. At least you didn't come off as foolish."

From Yuri's perspective, Noein was quite sharp for his age. His twisted personality, perhaps due to his upbringing, was a drawback.

"That's a relief. Well, all that's left is to negotiate the purchase of dried meat and buy supplies from Eliza's shop before we return."

...

While Noein and the others were in Retvik for business, Matilda and Mai were at the residence, taking care of the chores.

"So, all that's left is to wash the pots, dishes, and clothes, right?"

"...Yes."

Matilda rarely initiated conversation. Even when Mai spoke to her, she only responded with a few words.

"Hey, do you still not trust us? I know our first meeting was rough, but we've been working honestly since we got here, haven't we?"

Indeed, the five of them had been working tirelessly on the development project for the past two weeks without a break.

"No, it's not that I don't trust you. I do believe you have no ill intentions. However..."

"However, what?"

"...I don't know how to interact with anyone other than Lord Noein or what to talk about. For the past six years, I have only had proper conversations with Lord Noein."

Despite her usual lack of expression, Matilda seemed somewhat apologetic.

"...Haha."

"Why are you laughing?"

"Well, I thought you still disliked us, but it turns out you're just shy. You look so serious, but you have a cute side."

"Cute...?"

Mai responded to the bewildered Matilda.

"In other words, you've been so dependent on Lord Noein because you've been in a world with just the two of you. You must really love Lord Noein and can only see him, right?"

"...That's correct."

"Oh my, your cheeks are red."

"!"

Trying to tease Matilda, who was slightly blushing despite her attempt to remain calm, she turned away in a fluster.

"I don't think there's anything wrong with being dependent on each other as a form of love... But, it might be a good idea to get used to talking to people other than Lord Noein, don't you think?"

"..."

"If Lord Noein's domain management goes well, more residents will come here. If you want to be useful to Lord Noein, it would be better to be able to talk to others normally, don't you think?"

"...Yes, you're right."

"If you want, you can practice with me. Let's be friends, okay?"

"...Alright, I'll give it a try."

Mai nodded with a wry smile at Matilda, who said "give it a try" as if making a big decision.

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