"I believe that in the entire northern territories, he has the biggest supplies. As such, I'd like to nominate him so that he could bring his merchandise to the entire northern territory."
"Any objections?"
"This guy might be the biggest, but I don't have a good experience with him. He is increasing the price by more than half in my territory. During the last famine, he increased it to three times, which caused not only me but my people to suffer."
"That's true. I also had a bad experience with this guy. In fact, I think that the merchant Count Elzein suggests earlier is much better. While he is not as big, he only needs time to grow."
The arguments continued as they were debating every single merchant brought up in this conference.
But with Noel observing the entire conference, they didn't raise their conflict. They maintained the conducive atmosphere, allowing them to finally decide which merchants should receive the right to use the train.
Finally, after a full two days, they had decided the five merchants that would be given the right to use trains.
"With this, we have achieved the purpose of this meeting. If there is anyone who would like to raise an objection, this will be your last chance." Dylan asked.
Some nobles had their expressions darkened. Unfortunately, no matter how much they rejected it, it was impossible to change the decision. After all, the majority of the nobles had agreed.
"Alright. With this, the meeting is concluded. I'd like to thank all the lords that are present in this room. I believe that these five merchants will be able to perform what we expect them to do and avoid doing unethical trade. Other merchants might haven't been picked, but they are the ones most likely to be picked if any of these five fails to perform.
In that case, as the host of this conference, I'll announce that the meeting has ended. Thank you."
The Lords were nodding their heads.
In this conference, they were able to see the next Marquis Stargaze. Although Dylan's skill was still subpar compared to his father, it didn't change the fact that he was quite formidable. Of course, he was able to showcase his strength due to Noel's help.
But as he grew older and gained more experience, Dylan should be able to rule the territory just fine. That was what Noel believed.
"Alright then. But if you need anything, do let me know. We know how dangerous the enemies are."
Noel nodded.
Once the conference ended, the news spread about them choosing merchants to utilize the trains. Obviously, it sparked a lot of envious people who would like the same opportunity.
Unfortunately, the only thing they could do was watch from afar. A lot of other merchants and supplies immediately came to them, trying to work together. The merchants would be glad since they could increase their trade volume.
However, Noel would be observing them. If there was anyone trying to abuse this opportunity, he would strike them down with no mercy.
Obviously, all the people in the kingdom began to realize the power of the trains as the volume of items traded on the northern territory alone had become twice the amount of the rest of the kingdom. In other words, all these supplies would eventually result in development of the entire northern territory.
And a lot of nobles expressed their desire to get on board. Even those who remained neutral the whole time ended up switching sides to Noel.
That was the time when the second conference began. It was held in Countess Christina's territory. Duke Lorelei couldn't participate in this conference.
As a result, more and more merchants were threatened by the existence of the northern alliances. If they opposed them, they would be crushed. The one who experienced the effect the most was none other than the royal family.
Not only did they lose too much in the previous attack against Anna, but a lot of nobles were leaving their side.
And this was actually when the third princess and Duke Lorelei began to recruit their own supporters.
Without anyone realizing it, their supporters had actually surpassed the likes of the crown prince.
Fortunately, there was no bloodshed or big attacks happening, as they feared that Noel had another plan.
Time passed by, and three months had passed. It was the time for the sea expedition.