CH 26

Chapter 26: Negotiations

Alex-sama and I are facing President Cremetti at the reception room in the Central Bank of the capital. Then he put on his monocle he took out of his pocket and finished reading the summary of Alex-sama’s research.

“Can the creation of an artificial magic stone be realized?”

Alex-sama nods.

“That’s what we’re trying to figure out.”

“What scale… How big is your plan?”

“Eventually, we will be able to supply all of the kingdom’s magic stone production with it.”

Alex-sama confidently looks Mr. Cremetti in the eye. Yes, that’s right. Confidence, even if it’s false, doesn’t matter, but the voice of someone without confidence won’t move others.

Mr. Cremetti sighed.

“But this will…”

Yes, I understand his concerns. After all, It is in direct conflict with vested interests.

I stand up straight and speak decisively.

“Destroy the Periknen house.”

Not only Mr. Cremetti, but even Alex-sama next to him was surprised, their shoulders twitching.

“I know that 50% of the Duke Periknen family’s income comes from magic stone transactions and 20% from taxes from magic stone related businesses. Of course, it does not mean that their magic stone will suddenly stop selling, but the price will fall significantly. If they would take care of the agriculture and industry in the territory and live on their reduced income, it doesn’t matter, but I don’t see that happening.”

“Doesn’t that mean… Wouldn’t that turn the Duke’s household into an enemy? I think it’s more likely that they’ll destroy us.”

I moisten my lips with the tea offered. This is the moment of truth.

“I know a lot about them because I am knowledgeable about the Periknen household. Duke Periknen is not interested in the research of the commoners, and he won’t take action even if the magic stone decreases in value. He will continue his life as he spends money recklessly, and he will only move after his assets decrease. By that time, we should have gained the power to protect ourselves.”

Isn’t it difficult to stand up against the Duke’s household after all?

“It’s natural if you try to fight head-on. However, we are not nobles. We don’t have people or territories to protect… For example, we also consider running away to the neighboring country and spreading our technology there.”

Mr. Cremetti’s eyebrows narrowed.

I smile at him. Fufu, you don’t like it, do you?

You don’t want to miss the goose that lays the golden eggs, do you?

“Well, if you’re talking about protecting your lives, there are also mercenary and adventurer groups. We can manage to protect you.”

I nod with gratitude.

“However, this is only if you don’t inform Periknen house after listening to this conversation.”

A startled expression.

“Of course, we will not divulge what we say here to anyone.”

“Well, on the surface, it may seem that way. But if you prioritize your vested interests, then I have brought up such a topic that would blow away any such pretense.”

“…It means which side you’ll choose, make your flag clear.”

As if Alex-sama was about to say something, his mouth moved. I nod to him with the feeling of it’s okay.

Alex-sama nodded back and spoke to Mr. Cremetti who was thinking.

“Uh, Mr. Cremetti. This is a theory that I, personally, came up with. Even if I don’t do it, someone else will eventually with their own skills. It’s only a matter of time, whether it’s sooner or later. Maybe someone has already thought of this theory but it hasn’t been put out into the world yet.

“…Yes, that’s right.”

“And there’s no guarantee that it will be someone like me, born in this country and struggling as a researcher. That’s all I have to say.”

Mr. Cremetti let out a big sigh and reached out his hand to Alex with a cheerful face.

“Good, you’ll either be a researcher who leaves his name in history or an exceptional con artist. Let’s watch up close. Leave the finances to me.”

We also smile.

And with this, Alex was able to gain a patron. We made the contract in writing. Yes, it’s my turn now.

Mr. Cremetti and I finalized the details of the contract and Alex-sama signed it.

“Oh, yeah.”

As we were leaving, Mr. Cremetti raised his voice.

“I forgot because the story was so shocking, but there is something I want to tell the Peltra couple.”

“What is it?”

“His Highness Elias is thinking of inviting you to a social gathering. Be careful.”

… Hmm, is this going to be a hassle? Or is it a good opportunity?

“Thank you for your advice.”