Chapter 21

Benedict Miles was pondering how he should perceive the proposal from the young noble, Noein Earlkvist.

The proposed contract involved exclusive rights to mine lapis lazuli, supposedly discovered on Noein’s territory. It was certainly a very attractive offer. Just accepting this contract would undoubtedly build a fortune.

That was precisely why he was skeptical. One must always consider that there might be something hidden behind such an overly favorable deal.

Miles Trading Company had developed a relatively close relationship with Viscount Earlkvist over the past few months. It was understandable that this newly ennobled frontier noble, with no other connections, had reached out to them.

But why sell the raw stones instead of processing them for sale? Processing and selling them within the territory would yield much greater profits… Does he lack connections to gather artisans who can handle raw stones? Could this be the only reason?

“Viscount Earlkvist… I’m very pleased with your offer, but I seem to lack the insight into your thoughts. If you would, could you explain why you prefer to sell the raw stones as they are?”

Noein thought that the slightly exaggerated deference in his inquiry was a sign of suspicion.

“Understood. First, I am a relatively inexperienced noble, and I don’t have artisans who can process lapis lazuli raw stones. Also, from our previous transactions, I felt that Miles Trading Company is trustworthy. That’s why I approached you.”

“Yes.”

Seeing Benedict’s reaction, it seemed he understood this point.

“Next, the main reason is… I believe that immense wealth or business brings danger.”

“Danger, you say?”

Benedict still seemed to be grasping the idea.

“My territory has a population of only about 30 people. It is a small domain, hardly even a village. Undertaking a lapis lazuli mining and processing business on such a scale, potentially reaching tens of millions or even billions of reburos, would pose significant risks.”

Benedict’s expression began to show that he was starting to understand the reason.

“Even if I were to gather a large number of artisans and build a lucrative business, I lack the means to properly maintain, manage, and protect such wealth. Our small domain obviously has insufficient military power. Holding such vast wealth could attract unwanted attention from outside.”

“I see. I understand your situation.”

By the time he reached this point, Benedict fully understood the “danger” Noein was referring to. In essence, Noein was worried that the lapis lazuli vein could become a source of conflict with Viscount Keinitz.

There was no talk of any current discord between Viscount Keinitz and Viscount Earlkvist. To be precise, it would be more accurate to say that there was no reason for discord. This was likely because Earlkvist’s domain was considered insignificant to Keinitz.

What would happen if Earlkvist suddenly embarked on a major venture like “lapis lazuli processing and sales”? Keinitz might attempt to place his own artisans in the domain or impose heavy tariffs on the distribution channels to capture some of the profits.

In the worst-case scenario, Keinitz might even apply military pressure.

If such a situation occurred, Earlkvist’s domain could face economic takeover or, in the worst case, even annihilation.

Even if it didn’t reach such dire consequences, it would be undesirable for Earlkvist to attract unwanted attention from Keinitz or other neighboring nobles as “a young man who struck gold.”

Benedict knew that the current Viscount Keinitz was not a cold-blooded noble who would destroy other territories. He understood this from long-standing connections with the viscount and his major trading company. Viscount Earlkvist, who had only recently arrived in the northwest of the kingdom, would have no way of knowing Keinitz’s character.

On the other hand, if Earlkvist chose not to expand his business and limited it to “selling raw lapis lazuli,” it would be simpler. Earlkvist would only need to extract the stones from his territory and transport them to Miles Trading Company in Retvik. This alone would generate a tremendous income for his domain.

Moreover, the processing of the raw stones and the sale of the processed goods or pigments would take place in Viscount Keinitz’s domain, which would undoubtedly increase his tax revenue.

For Keinitz, a new business in his domain, “lapis lazuli processing and sales,” would arise simply by staying silent, allowing him to make a significant profit from taxes. This would deepen the beneficial relationship between Keinitz and Earlkvist.

In this balancing act between nobles, Miles Trading Company would fortunately reap significant profits.

“…If I accept this contract, I will owe a great debt to Viscount Earlkvist.”

“Haha, I’m glad to hear you think that way. Since we are a developing territory, there will likely be occasions when we need to consult with you in the future. I would appreciate your continued support at those times.”

When Benedict said this with a wry smile, Viscount Earlkvist responded with a refreshing smile.

The profits Miles Trading Company would gain from this contract would be immense. As a valued client providing such profits, Earlkvist would inevitably be treated with kindness in the future.

By avoiding danger and choosing a safe strategy while steadily accumulating funds, Noein had brought this proposal for buying raw stones. Considering the benefits of the contract, it was indeed a significant deal. The young noble’s approach of ensuring mutual benefits was commendable. Moreover, as a noble, it was crucial to maintain a good relationship, so letting this opportunity slip was not an option.

Realizing that the hidden aspects of the favorable offer had been revealed, Benedict thought there was no reason to fear.

“Given the circumstances… may we discuss the details of the contract?”

“Yes. I would be happy to discuss them.”

As the business discussion entered a concrete stage, Noein and Benedict straightened their posture anew.