Chapter 82

The mining development is a far larger project compared to the various land management efforts Noein has undertaken in his territory so far. Even after securing a commitment to bring in the mining engineer Victor, there is still much to be done.

After concluding his meeting with Victor, Noein’s next destination was the Miles Trading Company.

“It’s been a while, Lord Alquvist. It’s a relief to see you in good health.”

“It’s good to see you well, too, Mr. Benedict. Despite the usual support you provide, I haven’t been able to visit often, and I apologize for that.”

In the reception room, Noein exchanged greetings with the head of the Miles Trading Company, Benedict.

Not only does Noein regularly purchase lapis lazuli ore, but recently he has been using the company’s distribution network to send crossbows and potatoes to the various noble territories in the northwest of the kingdom. Noein genuinely wants to express his gratitude to Benedict.

“I am honored. The news of Lord Alquvist’s efforts to open up the future of the northwest has reached even a humble merchant like me. I am proud to be able to support your endeavors, even in a small way.”

As the head of a major trading company that deals with many nobles, Benedict seems to have grasped the information that Noein is beginning to stand out among the northwest faction. Just being relied upon by someone like Noein adds a bit of prestige to a merchant.

“I am pleased to hear that... This time, I have a matter to discuss. It’s a significant transaction, so I’ve come here myself as a lord.”

As Noein brings up the main topic, Benedict maintains his smile but changes the air around him, adopting a more businesslike demeanor.

“If it’s a matter of consultation from Lord Alquvist, I am more than happy to hear it.”

“Thank you... To be straightforward, I would like to terminate the current wholesale contract for lapis lazuli ore and enter into a new transaction.”

Even after hearing Noein’s proposal, Benedict does not let his expression waver. He seems to be carefully considering the implications of this suggestion.

“...Does this mean that you are about to seriously embark on mining development, Lord Alquvist?”

“You are as perceptive as ever. That’s exactly right.”

“I am honored by your praise.”

Noein intends to fully commit to mining development, not only to explore the lapis lazuli ore that has been discovered but also to search for other resources. Furthermore, he plans to process these resources within his territory.

Therefore, he wants to end the current wholesale contract for lapis lazuli ore with the Miles Trading Company and enter into a new contract to sell the resources mined and processed in the Alquvist territory.

Benedict seems to have understood the entire situation from Noein’s initial proposal. He is indeed the head of a major trading company.

“A new trading company has been established in the Alquvist territory, called the Skinner Trading Company, which will serve as the official trading company of the Alquvist family.”

The Skinner Trading Company is the name of the new trading company that Philip has set up in the Alquvist territory.

“I plan to supply the resources obtained from future mining development to the Skinner Trading Company for export outside the territory. Therefore, I would like the Miles Trading Company to enter into a transaction with them. I will make the introductions, and I believe it will be a profitable business for both parties. What do you think?”

The transaction of mining resources will be conducted between the Skinner Trading Company and the Miles Trading Company, but Noein will give his approval and provide various conveniences.

By doing this, he can nurture the Skinner Trading Company, his official trading company, with large transactions while utilizing the reliable distribution network of the Miles Trading Company to export resources outside the territory.

On the other hand, the Miles Trading Company will be able to profit from handling the distribution of resources produced in the Alquvist territory. It’s a win-win transaction for both parties.

“This is a very pleasant proposal. I would be delighted to accept it.”

“That’s great. Let’s continue to build a long-term relationship that benefits both of us.”

Noein extended his hand for a handshake, and Benedict responded with a friendly smile.

...

The preparations for mining development are not yet complete. After concluding the necessary discussions in Retvik, Noein will now run around the capital, Noeina.

“Philip, do you have a moment? I have something to discuss with you.”

“Lord Noein... Of course. Please, come to the reception room if you like.”

Noein, who visited the Skinner Trading Company, was led to the negotiation room through the busy store where employees and Philip’s slaves were working.

Sitting in a chair and facing Philip across the table, Noein immediately got to the point.

“Philip, I actually want to entrust you with a large transaction as an official merchant.”

“A large transaction... I understand. Please, tell me more.”

Hearing Noein’s words, Philip straightened his back, slightly nervous.

Noein then explained his proposal to sell the resources obtained from mining development to the Miles Trading Company through the Skinner Trading Company.

“That... That is indeed a very large transaction.”

The Skinner Trading Company currently mainly earns its income from retailing essential goods to the residents of the Alquvist territory. In the future, it is also planned to handle the monetization of crops collected as taxes from the residents.

Handling mining resources on top of that would be too much for the current scale of the company.

Given that the Alquvist territory, which has been granted a large piece of the Bezel Great Forest, is quite extensive, the mining development is expected to be on a considerable scale if it proceeds smoothly. A significant amount of effort will be required for the company to handle the sale of these resources.

However, this is also a great opportunity for the Skinner Trading Company. By accepting Noein’s proposal, they can establish a strong connection with the Miles Trading Company, which has a wide distribution network in the northwest of the kingdom.

“Indeed, it’s an attractive proposal... But can I really handle it?”

“As an official trading company of a noble lord, it’s essential to have connections with major trading companies outside the territory. I believe this will be a significant step for you. Besides, I’ve already talked to the Miles Trading Company.”

“R-Really!?”

Philip’s eyes widened, and he asked in a loud voice, taken aback by Noein’s playful smile.

“Of course, I can also say, ‘The head of the Skinner Trading Company backed out, so this deal is off.’ But what do you think? The mining development won’t start in earnest for a while, so there’s time to prepare. If you accept, I can help with hiring more employees and expanding the company’s warehouse.”

Noein’s face seemed to be testing Philip.

“...I understand. I will do my best to show that I am worthy of being an official merchant for Lord Noein. Please entrust this to me.”

“I’m glad to hear that. I’m counting on you. If you have any problems or need advice, feel free to talk to me anytime.”

Noein smiled at Philip, who seemed to have made up his mind.

This way, Noein can nurture the local trading company in the Alquvist territory and secure the distribution route for the resources obtained from mining development.

...

“Building a village at the foot of the Restio Mountains... That’s quite a big request.”

The last person Noein visited was Dmitri, the master carpenter who runs a construction company in the Alquvist territory.

If mining engineers, miners, and craftsmen who process resources are to live in the Restio Mountains within the Alquvist territory, the scale will be far beyond that of a mining camp.

At the very least, dozens of workers will need places to work and live, and warehouses to store the mined resources, as well as accommodations for the personnel who transport the resources. In the future, entertainment facilities like taverns and brothels will be required, and agriculture will be necessary for food self-sufficiency.

This is a project on the scale of building a new village.

“The road to the current mining camp is already in place, and the Bezel Great Forest extends to the foot of the Restio Mountains, so I don’t think there will be a shortage of timber... Can you handle it?”

“Technically, it’s possible, but we are severely short of manpower. It will also take years to complete.”

Dmitri’s construction company is responsible for building houses in the capital, Noeina. With the increasing number of settlers, building houses while also constructing a village at the foot of the Restio Mountains would clearly result in a shortage of personnel.

“I will help with that. I can assist in hiring new employees and purchasing more slaves, and if necessary, I can provide financial support in advance. What do you think?”

“If Lord Noein is willing to go that far, I would be happy to take on the project. This will make our company even bigger.”

“That’s great... Thank you. I hope you will continue to do well and earn more in the future.”

“Haha! That’s great to hear. I’ll work hard to be relied upon in the future, so please watch us.”

After that, they discussed the specific details of the order, the start date of the project, and the additional personnel needed, and Noein left Dmitri’s construction company office.

“With this, the preparations are almost complete... It’s been busy.”

“Well done, Lord Noein. With this, the mining development project should proceed smoothly.”

Undoubtedly, large-scale mining development requires a significant amount of preparation.

However, by laying the groundwork with the relevant parties, presenting the benefits and motivation, and boosting their morale, the project can proceed without major disruptions.

The results will start to show in a few months at the earliest. For now, it’s a matter of waiting patiently while supporting the work of the craftsmen and merchants he has approached and providing assistance when needed.