Book 4: Chapter 11-3: Secret Meeting

Book 4: Chapter 11-3: Secret Meeting

My wariness towards Jii continued to grow. What is this? How is that clueless woman so adept at figuring me out?

Jii, I understand that he's suspicious enough. Still, I want him. I'll use him for Erin's sake, even if it means taking risks. I won't let Erin, whom I've raised, be stolen by my foolish siblings. Thats why I took the risk of coming here.

Ojou-sama, your intentions are marvelous. However, please keep in mind that you shouldnt overestimate me. Ojou-sama, in the deep of your mind you believe that you dont need to worry about coming to Erucy because I'm here. You believe that we can win in case of war because I'm here. That's why you took such a strong stance in the negotiation today. But that's a mistake.

Dont tell me that even you cant win against him!

I have ten times his magic power, thirty times his instantaneous release amount, and there's no way I should lose in a normal fight. But still, I have a feeling that something might happen. It's possible to escape with Ojou-sama, but I can't promise I'll win if we fight.

At that moment, Azul takes a deep breath. It seems she had a lot of faith in Jii in terms of combat. Based on the conversation so far, she should have something comparable to a Hero's power.

I'll remember those words.

So, what will you do? Will you settle for just iron?

I'll try to gain a little more. For tariffs, Ill try to change them every five years or so. That's probably their bottom line. But it might be best to give up on forcibly recruiting Cyril-san.

That's a reasonable judgment. In the case of maple syrup, it doesn't directly compete with existing commerce, but there's no guarantee it won't in the future. Even if Erin starts making iron, there could be a situation where even better-quality iron is imported in large quantities from Erucy.

I recommend trying to avoid a war at all costs. They probably don't want a fight either, so they might compromise. Fortunately, Erin has a lot of things that Erucy would appreciate, and if you offer more, it should work.

Jii, you're unusually sharp today.

Well, I'm desperate here. I'd rather not fight someone who might be able to kill me. Depending on the situation, I might even defect to Erucys side to avoid a showdown with Cyril-san.

It's just like you to say that in front of your employer.

I don't think it will come to that. But if it does, it will be when Ive completely lost faith in you, even if it comes to it, Ill do my best so you dont die.

I see, then I won't do something like killing the children at the orphanage you run even if you betray me.

Wow, a hostage declaration!? My cute little sisters are being used as a shield!?

You're the one who started the fight, remember?

I continued to monitor Azul. In the worst case, they might have a secret conversation after the surveillance is lifted.

The next day, as planned, the trade took place.

The cargo of two wagons was spread out all at once in Erucy's largest square.

The items to be purchased were predetermined, and the payment for the goods had already been made in advance.

All that was left was to receive the goods in the order announced yesterday.

All work was suspended, and almost all adult elves and fire foxes were gathered with shining eyes.

Each person had a budget of one gold coin (60,000 yen), so they could indulge themselves quite a bit.

The highlights were undoubtedly the beautiful fabrics that couldn't be made in Erucy, distilled alcohol, various seasonings, and beef. Accessories made with urban sensibilities were also popular.

I bought a large quantity of herbs. I was running low on thyme and sage, so this was a great help.

How about this? This is the power of Erin. All of these are things that Erucy can't produce.

Azul said with pride.

I agree. It was the best event for Erucy, which has few forms of entertainment. Thank you very much.

I truly thought so. The best part this time was that they could choose everything for themselves. Until now, when shopping, we could only buy necessary items, but this time, everyone was able to get what they liked.

Well, don't forget this favor.

Its a problem if you think that we are receiving your favor unilaterally. Were selling you maple syrup, and the ice cream recipe I taught you should turn into money as soon as you start shelling it.

Oh, you never shut up. That's why I wanted you.

Have you reached a conclusion?

Yes, I have. We'll leave tomorrow. Before that, let's start the final negotiation.

Azul said that with a relieved expression.