Chapter 22

"First, regarding the purchase price of the raw stones, how much would you be willing to buy them for?"

In order to decide the specific terms of the contract, Noein straightforwardly delved into the main topic.

"Well, considering the quality of these raw stones and the current market prices... How about 800 reburu per kilogram?"

"That... I did some research on lapis lazuli prices before coming here, and based on that, I was thinking of selling them for 1,400 reburu per kilogram."

Given the scale of the deal, Benedict inwardly mused that Noein wouldn't easily let them go cheap.

"At 1,400, it would be a bit on the high side for the wholesale price of lapis lazuli raw stones... How about 1,000 reburu per kilogram?"

Noein thought that his guess wasn't far off, judging by Benedict's reaction. It was also within expectations that he wouldn't accept it easily.

"Then, how about 1,200 reburu per kilogram? Considering that we are offering the raw stones exclusively to the Miles Guild and the condition of the stones..."

Noein suggested this with a slight smile.

Benedict also thought this might be a reasonable compromise.

"Understood, then we will purchase them at that price. How much would you like to bring in? Given the scale of the transaction, we would like to set a certain amount in advance."

"For the next year, I would like to bring in about one ton per month. How does that sound?"

"It seems a bit low. May I ask the reason?"

If he hired a large number of laborers from outside the territory, he could mine a much larger amount in a shorter time. There must be a reason he didn't do that.

"As I mentioned earlier, our territory is small, and we prefer to avoid bringing in too many laborers from outside. If the number of outsiders exceeds the number of our own people, it could lead to a deterioration in public order, and I wouldn't be able to manage the mining operations effectively. I plan to hire only a few engineers for guidance and have the mining done by our own people."

"I see... I understand. Then, we will purchase one ton of lapis lazuli raw stones per month at 1,200 reburu per kilogram for a one-year contract. We can discuss the next year's terms based on the mine's condition around this time next year?"

"Yes, I have no objections."

They then went over the finer details and wrote down the contract terms on two pieces of parchment, one for each party to keep.

After signing both copies and taking one each, Noein and Benedict shook hands.

...

After seeing Noein off, Benedict returned to his office and took a sip of tea to relax.

"He was quite a sharp one. I was worried the guild master might be outmaneuvered."

This was said by one of Benedict's right-hand men, who had also been present as an assistant during the contract negotiations.

"No matter what, I wouldn't let a layman outmaneuver me in a business deal. However... I thought he was just a friendly young man when we did the fur and magic stone trade before, but today he showed quite a unique way of thinking."

Ordinarily, a young man like him would be more inclined to take risks. Even considering the conflict with the Count of Konitz and some internal unrest, it wouldn't be surprising if he tried to handle the processing and sales of lapis lazuli himself. If he succeeded, the profit would be several times, perhaps even ten times, more than just selling the raw stones.

Yet, that young nobleman readily gave up that profit to maintain peace in his territory, a good relationship with the Count of Konitz, and a strong connection with the Miles Guild.

While ensuring sufficient profit for his own territory's development, he also made sure that the Count of Konitz and the Miles Guild would benefit.

"Should I see him as a good-natured person... No, probably because he doesn't trust others."

Draining his tea, Benedict muttered to himself.

The reason the Baron of Alquvis insists on a "win-win relationship" is probably not out of consideration for the other party. Rather, he likely views them as "potential enemies who will turn on him if not given enough profit."

That's why he has been giving sufficient profit to both the Count of Konitz and the Miles Guild. He doesn't particularly like or truly trust them.

Moreover, he even hesitates to hire laborers for the mine, citing concerns about public order and his ability to manage them, indicating a deep lack of trust in outsiders.

His outward actions may seem sincere and considerate, but in reality, they are all driven by suspicion of others and a desire to protect himself and his territory. Despite his innocent and kind appearance, he seems to have a rather twisted personality.

"At least we won't be at a loss, but he doesn't seem to be an easy person to deal with."

"Considering the profit we will make from this contract, the guild master's slight fatigue is a small price to pay."

"Haha, indeed."

...

"Hehe. We made the contract! We made a profit!"

Noein walked with a beaming face after leaving the Miles Guild. They were on a main street with taverns and restaurants, and he was about to treat everyone to lunch to celebrate.

Having successfully signed the contract and sold nearly 50 kilograms of raw stones, he had earned close to 60,000 reburu in a single day. It was understandable that he couldn't stop laughing.

"Excellent job, Noein-sama."

"The negotiation was very impressive."

"Wow, you really handled that big merchant well."

"Really? I'm amazing? Hehe."

The three, including Mathilda, praised him, and Noein was in high spirits.

They arrived at the restaurant recommended by the guild master, which was a bit more expensive.

"Is it really okay for us to join in the celebration?"

"Of course, it's a celebration today, and I'm in the best mood."

While answering Edgar's hesitant question, Noein led the three into the restaurant.

"Feel free to eat as much as you like," Noein said, and Mathilda, Radley, and Edgar enjoyed dishes made with beef and fish, which they rarely got to eat in their usual residence.

Afterward, they booked a place to stay in Retvik, as they had to meet the Count of Konitz the next day.

...

After parting with Radley and Edgar, Noein entered the two-person room at the inn. Feeling exhausted from the negotiations, he flopped onto the bed. Mathilda sat down on the bed next to him.

"Noein-sama, you really worked hard today."

"Thank you. Negotiating with a skilled merchant was nerve-wracking. And I have to meet the Count of Konitz tomorrow too."

Sighing, Noein said.

"...Come here, Mathilda."

"Yes, Noein-sama."

Lying down, Noein opened his arms, and Mathilda snuggled into his chest with a loving expression.

"Now we don't have to worry about money. I'll develop the territory more and make sure you can enjoy good meals like today's lunch every day."

"Thank you, Noein-sama. But just being by your side is the greatest happiness for me."

"Hehe, I see. Thank you... Let's stay together, Mathilda."

"Of course. I will always be by your side, no matter what."

That night, they, of course, used only one bed.

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