Chapter 87: Welcome
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Chapter 87: Welcome
Ian, accompanied by Romandro, visited the central bank in Portloga, near the official residence where Molrin and his party had stayed and the park where he had met with Philia.
As soon as Ian alighted from the carriage, the waiting bank manager bowed deeply.
Lord Ian, welcome.
Good to see you again. Have you been well?
I heard about the Grula trade with Count Merellof, but is all of this gold coins?
The bank manager adjusted his monocle, clearly bewildered. The large chests divided into smaller containers did look rather crude and bulky.
Yes, its 1,000 gold coins.
Werent they given as a cheque?
Exactly. Its surprising how someone who handles money lacks such manners. Tsk tsk.
Romandro grumbled, clicking his tongue. If they had used gold certificates, they wouldnt have needed to go through such hassle.
Ian entered the bank with his servants. The scratched sign of Hayman Bank was evident. The marks were made by the refugees who used the bank as a shelter during the outbreak of the conflict between the central and Dergha regions.
Im managing well enough.
Thanks to you, Lord, weve had no problems.
Click.
Behind the bank manager, guards in black armor approached. These were the symbol and security of Hayman Bank. The armor, crafted with magic stones, was practically a weapon in itself.
Should we move it?
Yes, please. Thank you.
Its no trouble at all.
Each of the four chests contained 250 gold coins, usually requiring two men to move. However, the guards in armor effortlessly lifted two at a time, one in each hand.
!?
The most astonished reaction came from Beric. He froze on the spot, eyes rolling around in disbelief. He seemed to wonder what kind of strength this was; even the Cheonrye tribe probably couldnt match it.
What is that?
Ah, Beric, is this your first time seeing it?
Romandro explained on behalf of Ian.
Its armor made from magic stones. In the central region, Hayman Banks headquarters and their response time is quick, but its not the same in these remote branches.
Not just anyone could handle such a task. It was a sort of display of financial power, exclusive to those who monopolized Bariels financial sector. Just one set of that armor
So thats why.
What is?
I knew Portloga had the best public safety in Bratz, but even the thieves wouldnt dare near the bank.
The power of the armor could crush a human skull. It was not only formidable against physical and low-level magical attacks but also resilient to fire and other impacts.
Beric, if someone threatened the bank, before these guards moved, Dergha would have killed the perpetrator. And if, during the fight between the Central Army and Dergha, a third party threatened the bank, both sides would have ceased their battle to jointly protect this place.
What, is the bank manager like the emperor here or something?
Its treated as a sanctuary, almost like a temple, within Bariel.
It was Bariels third, neutral territory. If a mistake was made and transactions were refused, it meant managing and moving massive wealth personally, effectively being excluded from economic power circles.
Of course, this applied mainly to nobles and merchants.
So if someone had really tried to rob the bank during all that chaos, there wouldve been less fighting.
Beric spoke bluntly, causing the guards to pause momentarily, but they soon resumed moving the chests, realizing his comment wasnt malicious.Ñøv€l--ß1n hosted the premiere release of this chapter.
Who would risk their life for such a thing?
Besides, it was used as a shelter, so the place was swarming with people right up to the entrance. Anyone trying to rob it would have been caught and dealt with first.
At that moment, the bank manager, who had been counting the gold coins inside, reappeared. He had been using a magic tool to check for counterfeits and was drying his wet hands with a towel.
Alright. Any problems?
No, none at all. Counting 1,000 gold coins is something I havent done in a long time. Our vault will be full until the collection team arrives.
And the certificate?
Please sign here.
Ian, sitting on the sofa, took the pen and quickly signed the document contained in a leather case, depositing the 1,000 gold coins in his name.
Have I ever done bank transactions before?
Both Romandro and the bank manager harbored this question, but they quickly resolved it with an exchange of glances, assuming the other would have informed him.
Yes, its all done. Thank you.
I should be the one thanking you. Youve been of great help. Count Merellof will transfer an additional 2,500 gold coins within three days. It would be good to prepare the cheque in advance.
Ah, right. Understood. Oh! Heres a notice. Due to winter, many transport routes are blocked. Especially, the Karenna, Longin, and Zailkup branches are currently inaccessible. Karenna, in particular, has terrible security, with thieves robbing each other frequently.
Im not sure if Ill need to go there, but thanks anyway.
Thank you.
The branch manager bowed deeply at Ians words, indicating that all transactions had been successfully completed. Ian returned to the mansion with a light heart. Indeed, packing 100 bags was no small task, and everyone was still busy at work.
Lord Ian, have you returned?
How far along are we?
The servant wiped off sweat and glanced towards the back where Count Merellofs party was busy.
Fortunately, we had thirty bags pre-packed, but then, believe it or not, they started checking every single one before taking them.
The meticulous selection process by the counts party was time-consuming. Ian navigated through his subordinates, observing Count Merellofs interference in every detail and shook his head.
Theyre going to have a hard time.
Yes. But it looks like well finish before dinner.
Alright. Ill come back down after I sort some things out.
Ian entered the mansion and proposed an idea to Romandro. It was about the roasted Grula that Hana had mentioned.
Even if Count Merellof starts planting Grula today, it will take at least a month.
Thats likely.
What Im thinking is, we should allow Grula trade with Merellof. Initially, we could sell only the roasted Grula, and when their harvest season arrives, start selling fresh Grula as well.
For now, since Merellofs estate wouldnt have its own Grula, the people of the territory wanting to consume it would have to buy from Ians side. The count might plan to distribute Grula seeds like Ian did and raise next years tax rate
Count, wont this make your blood pressure rise?
But, when Ian also starts selling fresh Grula, the people wont have a reason to accept higher tax rates in exchange for Grula distribution.
Dont worry, Lady Lien will take care of things before that happens.
At Ians response, Romandro gave an awkward laugh, unsure whether it was a situation to laugh about or not.
As soon as Count Merellof leaves the territory, inform the people. Tell them that we will soon lift the trade restrictions on roasted Grula.
Understood. Ill do that.
And another thing.
Ian suddenly paused as he was about to head up to his office.
Have we received any instructions regarding what to do with Sir Molrin?
It had been a while since he received the news of his title appointment. Surely, if Prince Mariv had any specific intentions, a message should have arrived by courier by now. Yet, strangely, there had been no word about their disposition.
I checked again recently, and they just told us to wait. It seems they are quite busy.
Could something have gone wrong? Ian frowned and tilted his head, pondering the situation.
Please report us if you find any errors so we can fix it asap!
Chapter 87: Welcome
Ian, accompanied by Romandro, visited the central bank in Portloga, near the official residence where Molrin and his party had stayed and the park where he had met with Philia.
As soon as Ian alighted from the carriage, the waiting bank manager bowed deeply.
Lord Ian, welcome.
Good to see you again. Have you been well?
I heard about the Grula trade with Count Merellof, but is all of this gold coins?
The bank manager adjusted his monocle, clearly bewildered. The large chests divided into smaller containers did look rather crude and bulky.
Yes, its 1,000 gold coins.
Werent they given as a cheque?
Exactly. Its surprising how someone who handles money lacks such manners. Tsk tsk.
Romandro grumbled, clicking his tongue. If they had used gold certificates, they wouldnt have needed to go through such hassle.
Ian entered the bank with his servants. The scratched sign of Hayman Bank was evident. The marks were made by the refugees who used the bank as a shelter during the outbreak of the conflict between the central and Dergha regions.
Im managing well enough.
Thanks to you, Lord, weve had no problems.
Click.
Behind the bank manager, guards in black armor approached. These were the symbol and security of Hayman Bank. The armor, crafted with magic stones, was practically a weapon in itself.
Should we move it?
Yes, please. Thank you.
Its no trouble at all.
Each of the four chests contained 250 gold coins, usually requiring two men to move. However, the guards in armor effortlessly lifted two at a time, one in each hand.
!?
The most astonished reaction came from Beric. He froze on the spot, eyes rolling around in disbelief. He seemed to wonder what kind of strength this was; even the Cheonrye tribe probably couldnt match it.
What is that?
Ah, Beric, is this your first time seeing it?
Romandro explained on behalf of Ian.
Its armor made from magic stones. In the central region, Hayman Banks headquarters and their response time is quick, but its not the same in these remote branches.
Not just anyone could handle such a task. It was a sort of display of financial power, exclusive to those who monopolized Bariels financial sector. Just one set of that armor
So thats why.
What is?
I knew Portloga had the best public safety in Bratz, but even the thieves wouldnt dare near the bank.
The power of the armor could crush a human skull. It was not only formidable against physical and low-level magical attacks but also resilient to fire and other impacts.
Beric, if someone threatened the bank, before these guards moved, Dergha would have killed the perpetrator. And if, during the fight between the Central Army and Dergha, a third party threatened the bank, both sides would have ceased their battle to jointly protect this place.
What, is the bank manager like the emperor here or something?
Its treated as a sanctuary, almost like a temple, within Bariel.
It was Bariels third, neutral territory. If a mistake was made and transactions were refused, it meant managing and moving massive wealth personally, effectively being excluded from economic power circles.
Of course, this applied mainly to nobles and merchants.
So if someone had really tried to rob the bank during all that chaos, there wouldve been less fighting.
Beric spoke bluntly, causing the guards to pause momentarily, but they soon resumed moving the chests, realizing his comment wasnt malicious.Ñøv€l--ß1n hosted the premiere release of this chapter.
Who would risk their life for such a thing?
Besides, it was used as a shelter, so the place was swarming with people right up to the entrance. Anyone trying to rob it would have been caught and dealt with first.
At that moment, the bank manager, who had been counting the gold coins inside, reappeared. He had been using a magic tool to check for counterfeits and was drying his wet hands with a towel.
Alright. Any problems?
No, none at all. Counting 1,000 gold coins is something I havent done in a long time. Our vault will be full until the collection team arrives.
And the certificate?
Please sign here.
Ian, sitting on the sofa, took the pen and quickly signed the document contained in a leather case, depositing the 1,000 gold coins in his name.
Have I ever done bank transactions before?
Both Romandro and the bank manager harbored this question, but they quickly resolved it with an exchange of glances, assuming the other would have informed him.
Yes, its all done. Thank you.
I should be the one thanking you. Youve been of great help. Count Merellof will transfer an additional 2,500 gold coins within three days. It would be good to prepare the cheque in advance.
Ah, right. Understood. Oh! Heres a notice. Due to winter, many transport routes are blocked. Especially, the Karenna, Longin, and Zailkup branches are currently inaccessible. Karenna, in particular, has terrible security, with thieves robbing each other frequently.
Im not sure if Ill need to go there, but thanks anyway.
Thank you.
The branch manager bowed deeply at Ians words, indicating that all transactions had been successfully completed. Ian returned to the mansion with a light heart. Indeed, packing 100 bags was no small task, and everyone was still busy at work.
Lord Ian, have you returned?
How far along are we?
The servant wiped off sweat and glanced towards the back where Count Merellofs party was busy.
Fortunately, we had thirty bags pre-packed, but then, believe it or not, they started checking every single one before taking them.
The meticulous selection process by the counts party was time-consuming. Ian navigated through his subordinates, observing Count Merellofs interference in every detail and shook his head.
Theyre going to have a hard time.
Yes. But it looks like well finish before dinner.
Alright. Ill come back down after I sort some things out.
Ian entered the mansion and proposed an idea to Romandro. It was about the roasted Grula that Hana had mentioned.
Even if Count Merellof starts planting Grula today, it will take at least a month.
Thats likely.
What Im thinking is, we should allow Grula trade with Merellof. Initially, we could sell only the roasted Grula, and when their harvest season arrives, start selling fresh Grula as well.
For now, since Merellofs estate wouldnt have its own Grula, the people of the territory wanting to consume it would have to buy from Ians side. The count might plan to distribute Grula seeds like Ian did and raise next years tax rate
Count, wont this make your blood pressure rise?
But, when Ian also starts selling fresh Grula, the people wont have a reason to accept higher tax rates in exchange for Grula distribution.
Dont worry, Lady Lien will take care of things before that happens.
At Ians response, Romandro gave an awkward laugh, unsure whether it was a situation to laugh about or not.
As soon as Count Merellof leaves the territory, inform the people. Tell them that we will soon lift the trade restrictions on roasted Grula.
Understood. Ill do that.
And another thing.
Ian suddenly paused as he was about to head up to his office.
Have we received any instructions regarding what to do with Sir Molrin?
It had been a while since he received the news of his title appointment. Surely, if Prince Mariv had any specific intentions, a message should have arrived by courier by now. Yet, strangely, there had been no word about their disposition.
I checked again recently, and they just told us to wait. It seems they are quite busy.
Could something have gone wrong? Ian frowned and tilted his head, pondering the situation.
Chapter 87: WelcomeIan, accompanied by Romandro, visited the central bank in Portloga, near the official residence where Molrin and his party had stayed and the park where he had met with Philia.As soon as Ian alighted from the carriage, the waiting bank manager bowed deeply.Lord Ian, welcome.Good to see you again. Have you been well?I heard about the Grula trade with Count Merellof, but is all of this gold coins?The bank manager adjusted his monocle, clearly bewildered. The large chests divided into smaller containers did look rather crude and bulky.Yes, its 1,000 gold coins.Werent they given as a cheque?Exactly. Its surprising how someone who handles money lacks such manners. Tsk tsk.Romandro grumbled, clicking his tongue. If they had used gold certificates, they wouldnt have needed to go through such hassle.Ian entered the bank with his servants. The scratched sign of Hayman Bank was evident. The marks were made by the refugees who used the bank as a shelter during the outbreak of the conflict between the central and Dergha regions.Im managing well enough.Thanks to you, Lord, weve had no problems.Click.Behind the bank manager, guards in black armor approached. These were the symbol and security of Hayman Bank. The armor, crafted with magic stones, was practically a weapon in itself.Should we move it?Yes, please. Thank you.Its no trouble at all.Each of the four chests contained 250 gold coins, usually requiring two men to move. However, the guards in armor effortlessly lifted two at a time, one in each hand.!?The most astonished reaction came from Beric. He froze on the spot, eyes rolling around in disbelief. He seemed to wonder what kind of strength this was; even the Cheonrye tribe probably couldnt match it.What is that?Ah, Beric, is this your first time seeing it?Romandro explained on behalf of Ian.Its armor made from magic stones. In the central region, Hayman Banks headquarters and their response time is quick, but its not the same in these remote branches.Not just anyone could handle such a task. It was a sort of display of financial power, exclusive to those who monopolized Bariels financial sector. Just one set of that armorSo thats why.What is?I knew Portloga had the best public safety in Bratz, but even the thieves wouldnt dare near the bank.The power of the armor could crush a human skull. It was not only formidable against physical and low-level magical attacks but also resilient to fire and other impacts.Beric, if someone threatened the bank, before these guards moved, Dergha would have killed the perpetrator. And if, during the fight between the Central Army and Dergha, a third party threatened the bank, both sides would have ceased their battle to jointly protect this place.What, is the bank manager like the emperor here or something?Its treated as a sanctuary, almost like a temple, within Bariel.It was Bariels third, neutral territory. If a mistake was made and transactions were refused, it meant managing and moving massive wealth personally, effectively being excluded from economic power circles.Of course, this applied mainly to nobles and merchants.So if someone had really tried to rob the bank during all that chaos, there wouldve been less fighting.Beric spoke bluntly, causing the guards to pause momentarily, but they soon resumed moving the chests, realizing his comment wasnt malicious.Nvl--1n hosted the premiere release of this chapter.Who would risk their life for such a thing?Besides, it was used as a shelter, so the place was swarming with people right up to the entrance. Anyone trying to rob it would have been caught and dealt with first.At that moment, the bank manager, who had been counting the gold coins inside, reappeared. He had been using a magic tool to check for counterfeits and was drying his wet hands with a towel.Alright. Any problems?No, none at all. Counting 1,000 gold coins is something I havent done in a long time. Our vault will be full until the collection team arrives.And the certificate?Please sign here.Ian, sitting on the sofa, took the pen and quickly signed the document contained in a leather case, depositing the 1,000 gold coins in his name.Have I ever done bank transactions before?Both Romandro and the bank manager harbored this question, but they quickly resolved it with an exchange of glances, assuming the other would have informed him.Yes, its all done. Thank you.I should be the one thanking you. Youve been of great help. Count Merellof will transfer an additional 2,500 gold coins within three days. It would be good to prepare the cheque in advance.Ah, right. Understood. Oh! Heres a notice. Due to winter, many transport routes are blocked. Especially, the Karenna, Longin, and Zailkup branches are currently inaccessible. Karenna, in particular, has terrible security, with thieves robbing each other frequently.Im not sure if Ill need to go there, but thanks anyway.Thank you.The branch manager bowed deeply at Ians words, indicating that all transactions had been successfully completed. Ian returned to the mansion with a light heart. Indeed, packing 100 bags was no small task, and everyone was still busy at work.Lord Ian, have you returned?How far along are we?The servant wiped off sweat and glanced towards the back where Count Merellofs party was busy.Fortunately, we had thirty bags pre-packed, but then, believe it or not, they started checking every single one before taking them.The meticulous selection process by the counts party was time-consuming. Ian navigated through his subordinates, observing Count Merellofs interference in every detail and shook his head.Theyre going to have a hard time.Yes. But it looks like well finish before dinner.Alright. Ill come back down after I sort some things out.Ian entered the mansion and proposed an idea to Romandro. It was about the roasted Grula that Hana had mentioned.Even if Count Merellof starts planting Grula today, it will take at least a month.Thats likely.What Im thinking is, we should allow Grula trade with Merellof. Initially, we could sell only the roasted Grula, and when their harvest season arrives, start selling fresh Grula as well.For now, since Merellofs estate wouldnt have its own Grula, the people of the territory wanting to consume it would have to buy from Ians side. The count might plan to distribute Grula seeds like Ian did and raise next years tax rateCount, wont this make your blood pressure rise?But, when Ian also starts selling fresh Grula, the people wont have a reason to accept higher tax rates in exchange for Grula distribution.Dont worry, Lady Lien will take care of things before that happens.At Ians response, Romandro gave an awkward laugh, unsure whether it was a situation to laugh about or not.As soon as Count Merellof leaves the territory, inform the people. Tell them that we will soon lift the trade restrictions on roasted Grula.Understood. Ill do that.And another thing.Ian suddenly paused as he was about to head up to his office.Have we received any instructions regarding what to do with Sir Molrin?It had been a while since he received the news of his title appointment. Surely, if Prince Mariv had any specific intentions, a message should have arrived by courier by now. Yet, strangely, there had been no word about their disposition.I checked again recently, and they just told us to wait. It seems they are quite busy.Could something have gone wrong? Ian frowned and tilted his head, pondering the situation.
