"Perhaps you might consider acquiring all the neighboring storefronts," Jean mused after a moment of contemplation. "You could either break through the connecting walls to create a larger space or strategically demolish a few to make room for future expansions."
As she observed Logan deep in discussion with her brother about potential business ventures, possibly in sugar processing or distillery, she recognized the ambition in his plans. The current backyard, though spacious, presented clear limitations for any significant or long-term industrial growth.
"Purchase all of them?" Logan echoed, his voice tinged with surprise.
"That sounds rather expensive, doesn't it?" he questioned, turning towards Jean with a puzzled look. He was unfamiliar with the local market rates, and he doubted that the proprietors of the adjacent shops would willingly part with their establishments.
Jean nodded, her expression earnest. "This area, on the fringes of the DC zone and away from the bustling main streets, sees little foot traffic. That's precisely why I'm selling my shop. I'm barely scraping by, and I suspect most of the other shopkeepers are in the same predicament. A decent offer, and I believe they'd be more than willing to sell."
Now deeply involved with Logan, Jean was committed to proving her worth and securing her position not just as his partner but as an indispensable ally. She knew too well that mere affection was fleeting; she needed to establish herself as someone of influence and necessity in his life.
"Really?" Logan pondered, realizing the truth in her words. The area was indeed lacking in commercial activity.
Yet, with the tribe's funds already stretched thin from their initial investments in the nascent sugar and distillery operations, the financial feasibility of such an expansive purchase seemed daunting. It would undoubtedly require a substantial sum.
"Don't worry, we can take our time to decide," Logan replied with a reassuring smile, appreciating the strategic insight.
Jean nodded, her fiery red hair fluttering in the gentle breeze, a silent agreement to his prudent approach.
"It's getting late, I should head home," she announced suddenly.
"Going home now?" Logan paused, surprised, as he supervised a group of beastmen setting up a new furnace.
"Why, would you rather I stayed?" Jean teased, a playful glint in her eyes.
Logan chuckled softly, gesturing for her to go ahead. He was momentarily taken aback by her early departure; Jean usually stayed out until nightfall.
"Hmph, you fool..." Jean scoffed playfully as she strode out of the yard, her departure marked by a blend of affection and mock frustration.
"The earth here is becoming richer!"
"And over here too!"
"Hello, Master Logan, my name is Fido...!" exclaimed one excitedly.
The introductions from the other beastmen merchants cascaded forth, each eager to make an impression. Once the flurry subsided, the lion named David Templeton gave a respectful nod to Logan and stated, "Master Logan, my name is David Templeton, and I am also in the wine trade. I've heard through Gando here that you have some new vintages to sample. May I try them?"
Gando shot a look between Logan and David, sensing the slightly challenging undertone in David's request.
Logan caught the nuance in David's tone but remained composed. The presence of these eleven beastman merchants, all but David being small-scale wine shop owners like Gando, highlighted David's unique position as a formidable player in the wine industry.
"Kirby, bring a bottle of our finest white and eleven tasting cups!" Logan commanded with an authoritative tone.
"Yes, sir!" responded a quilboar guard stationed at the gate, his voice sharp and prompt.
Shortly after, the guard returned, balancing a polished wooden wine bottle and a neatly stacked set of small cups on a tray. "Please prepare the servings," Logan instructed as the quilboar placed the cups on the dining table and filled each with precision.
"Enjoy," Logan gestured graciously with a slight raise of his hand, inviting his guests to sample the wine.
The room quickly filled with the rich, enticing aroma of the white wine. Gando, the fox-man, was the first to rise, eagerness etched on his face as he grasped a cup. Having indulged earlier at noon, he was particularly keen for another taste.
His actions spurred the others into motion; even David, the lion-man, didn't hesitate to pick up a cup. Murmurs of approval soon followed as the wine was tasted.
"This aroma is intoxicating!"
"The flavor is so rich, so exquisite, it lingers wonderfully!"
"Have I even been selling real wine before this?"
"I'm beginning to question the same!"
The exclamations filled the room, each merchant expressing newfound admiration for the quality they were experiencing.
Suddenly, aside from Gando, a palpable change in demeanor swept through the others. David, the lion-man, after a reflective pause, set his cup down and stood. "Master Logan, I must apologize for my earlier skepticism," he said with a respectful bow. "Moreover, I implore you to consider a partnership with me. I am ready to discuss any collaboration you envision with serious commitment."
He continued, somewhat ruefully, "I admit, I was doubtful when Gando mentioned meeting a winemaker of your caliber, especially in a place as remote as Canyon City. But tasting this, I realize how wrong I was to doubt. It's not every day one encounters such a unique vintage." His voice carried a mix of regret and awe, acknowledging his initial misjudgments and the impressive reality of Logan's craft.