Chapter 85 – Conditions (Start)
Just at this moment, a squall blew over.
Standing amidst of colourful flowers that unceasingly fluttered about, the Baron's complexion also unceasingly fluctuated. A complexion that was suddenly white, abruptly became red, it indicated that at this very moment, the Baron's mind was precisely filled with anger, just like a raging inferno.
However at the very end, he at least resisted with difficulty and did not explode his fury out.
Resist. This was his current thought. He couldn't erupt. He couldn't erupt. The Baron continuously repeated it in his own mind. At the least, he couldn't get angry in front of Jeff.
Being refused and afterwards erupting, this would be too much that he was not magnanimous. Furthermore, under the current situation, he couldn't get angry.
After all, the matter he discussed with Jeff couldn't be revealed. Even though he was the Feudal Lord of this area, under the situation where he wasn't clear of any weaknesses of Rumont, directing such schemes against the opponent was already no different from plotting murder. If others learnt of it, it would only be a source of trouble. As a result, even if he was absolutely refused by Jeff, he could only endure. He couldn't erupt.
He could only stare at the entrance of the garden, looking helplessly on as the Rank 5 Druid deftly depart.
At this very moment, Druid Jeff's rear figure could still be seen under the area of his attentive gaze. The counterpart's Nature aura he had was constantly attracting the flora within the garden, making them flicker about, cheering. This kind of scenario made the Baron once again sense the characteristics of the Druid profession. It was also because of this that the Baron's mood was even more urgent.
After all, along with the Rank of a Druid being increasingly higher, there will eventually be a day where he would be at a complete loss against Rumont, as the Baron Lord of nobility. And before this happened, he needed to strike first and gain the advantage, taking this kid with wild ambition and fiercely kicking him down, or how about kicking him down to hell, or even kicking him far away, making him unable to return to this place forever.
Ay, it's such a pity ah. I thought I could borrow Jeff's hands to get rid of Rumont, but unfortunately……
Against all expectations, this Jeff truly couldn't adapt to the current situation……
Once Jeff's rear view had entirely departed from his own line of sight, the Baron was then no longer able to repress his fury, he ferociously clutched onto a large amount of flowers on the side before then using his strength to tear it apart.
"Excellent Jeff!" after throwing down the destroyed flowers, he then again ferociously stepped on it, at the same time the Baron furiously scolded Jeff in a low voice.
Even though he knew of Jeff's indifferent temperament and that he absolutely wouldn't expose this matter out, but being refused by someone still made the Baron feel agitated. An extremely exceptional amount of anger.
Originally, prior to meeting with Druid Jeff, the Baron had specifically gone and understood about the current situation. Knowing that there was a conflict between Rumont and Jeff, he had then thought of borrowing Jeff's hand to get rid of, or perhaps, chase away Rumont.
For this reason, he had resolved his mind in promising many benefits. Only for the sake of a Rank 2 Druid had he promised so many conditions; thinking beforehand, he himself had felt that it wasn't worth it.
However, the first point was that the Baron did not want any inconveniences to have arised from this, borrowing Jeff's hand to carry out this matter was even more reasonable. After all, a duel between Druids was neither something that never happened.
The second point was that the Baron knew the relationship between his second daughter and Rumont was great. Even though getting rid of Rumont was also exactly because of this reason, he didn't want it to be too obvious, making his daughter hate him because of this matter.
Hence, borrowing the hand of another to get rid of Rumont, was the better method for this matter. As for conflicting philosophies with Rumont, besides being of a higher Rank than Rumont, Jeff was still once Rumont's teacher, which made him the most fitting person for the job.
Merely, it was only until now that the Baron knew that he was wrong. He was too unbelievably wrong.
This Druid Jeff was probably because of dealing with plants for several years that he had long become the same as a plant. Facing so many of his promises and condition, he was surprisingly unmoved, he was surprisingly daring to not give him face!
This result was truly outside of the Baron's expectations by a great amount. The Baron had originally set up satisfactory plans, but because he was lacking a critical person, it had forthwith dispersed away.
"Since the person can't be killed, then I can only think of another method." after the Baron had finished venting his anger off, he had disappointedly sat back on the recliner; sighing in exasberation and then soliloquizing.
In regards to Druid Jeff, after this recent chat, he did not have much hopes for the guy that was practically one dense dignitary. With a cold personality, as well as having a type of arrogant profession that belonged to a Druid, it made it probable that he wouldn't go do something he didn't wish to; without giving him the proper conditions.
Only, if he didn't borrow Jeff's hand to get rid of Rumont, what even better plans did he have left? Looking at the floor filled with scattered petals, the Baron once again submerged into contemplation.
Truthfully, in regards to Rumont, it's not that he never thought of using his soldiers, or perhaps utilizing an assassination attempt; secretly erasing him away without a single trace. However, using his soldiers to suppress Rumont with the gathered Adventurers in Ricca town nowadays? If his memories didn't fail him, the only reason the matter of the divine judgement had occurred was precisely because the group of Adventurers had united together and stirred the matter up greatly, eventually alerting the Church's side.
As for the friendship between Rumont and the Adventurers, if he theoretically dispatched his soldiers to suppress Rumont, he was afraid that at that time, he would wrongly provoke an even greater affair instead. At that time, there was no need to wait for Rumont to conspire against his territory, he was afraid that he would have long been killed from the first wave of troubles.
Moreover, although he suspected that Rumont was partly to be blamed for the matters, but from the very beginning he had no means catching a hold of any evidence; it was also because this matter wasn't something he wished to quarrel over with his daughter with.
Only, if he were to adopt an assassination method, it obviously wouldn't be too secure either. In the off chance that the matter was exposed, then his reputation was finished. The best method was one that could publically reveal the evidences of Rumont's crimes, or similarly let Druid Jeff act in his stead. There was no need to think of publically revealing evidences, as currently, Jeff had already declined his conditions. He was basically unwilling to do such a thing.
Under such a situation, for the sake of stopping his daughter from continuing to be with Rumont, the Baron could only ponder over it deeply, whether another kind of method was feasible. In the end, he still thought that he should first take a moderate approach, first letting Rumont stay distantly away from his own daughter.
"Attendant." after deciding on a plan, the Baron stood up and called for an attendant. "Invite Druid Rumont from Ricca town over, I have a matter to discuss with him. Right, make him bring his already well drafted map with him as well."
"Yessir." after the command, the attendant thereupon speedily left the castle and went to find Rumont, to convey the commandment.
Rumont at this moment, who had just returned from the Briar Forest not long ago, had after a short day’s rest, begun to arrange and draft up the map of Briar Forest.
Even though he had the reason of needing to finish his mission, he was often not at the store, yet because he had Nick, the business of the drugstore was great. At the least, apart from Rolak occasionally having unusual behaviours in the recent time, everything was fine.
Thinking of Rolak's recent unusual activity, Rumont had always felt something was off, in fact, the more he thought of it the more it felt off. In the end, he had stored away the drafted map before then coming out of his room.
"Rolak, are you worried about something? Did something happen?" once Rumont entered the hallway of the drugstore, he had seen Rolak just sitting at a corner, staring away at his own pair of hands.
As expected it was like this. The other's current state had already persisted for a good few days. Ever since he returned from the forest, he had discovered that Rolak wasn't too high-spirited and always in a sulky mood. The manner when he occasionally saw Rumont directly was also one of avoidance, which had already been noted by Rumont. Seeing that his manner was still like this today, Rumont no longer hesitated in heading over and patting the other's shoulder, wanting to ask exactly what was going on.
"Ah? What is it? Worries? Not at all eh!" suddenly lifting his head and seeing that the person asking was Rumont, Rolak appeared to have suddenly received a fright and stood up from his chair, his complexion changing to a pale white.
Rumont furrowed his brows, his complexion becoming more ugly, is that the manner of nothing?
"Truly nothing?" he had some suspicions as he gazed at Rolak, before suddenly thinking of a possibility. "Is your family beating you up again?"
"Ah? Yes, no……there's a patron……I……I should go work. By chance a patron had just walked in at this time, Rolak immediately broke away and promptly greeted the guest.
Looking at Rolak's rear figure, Rumont shook his head before turning his body around and arriving by Nick's side who was settling the accounts. "Nick, do you feel that recently Rolak seems to be a bit strange?"
"A little, it's probably because he's worked too much recently and is feeling a bit tired right. Also, I've heard that the relationship between him and his father has never been too good, I reckon he's been blamed again yeah." Nick glanced up for a moment before again lowering his head back to the accounting books.
"Is that right?" Rumont again look towards Rolak, and he saw him really giving it his all in giving explanations of the uses of the various medicines to the guest; a great display. Following on, he shook his head, feeling his worries to be funny.
"Maybe I'm overthinking it eh. How strange could a kid be? I reckon he's been blamed again by the family, which is why he's feeling grieved right." thinking of Rolak's family situation, Rumont once again shook his head. This pitiful youth was born in such a household, he feared he couldn't be lacking in sufferings.
"Give Rolak a bit more in his wages this month. I've seen him work hard, giving him a raise is alright." Rumont spoke.
"Relax, I've already given Rolak a raise last month. You think I haven't considered this?" Nick replied as he settled the accounts, casually raising his brow to Rumont.
"That's good then." Rumont nodded his head, exceptionally satisfied with Nick's work efficiency. He again chatted a few more words with Nick. Seeing that the other was rather immersed, he forthwith felt that he was rather too leisurely as the boss, and decided to help do something.
It was at this time, that Rolak lead a person looking like an attendant to Rumont.
–
Chapter 86 – Conditions (End)
"Are you Druid Rumont? The Lord Baron invites you to see him. Right, please remember to bring the already well drafted portion of the forest map. If there's nothing else, please follow me back." after seeing Rumont, the attendant first gave a few curious glances at the youth before then handing over what the Baron had said.
However, different to the Baron's stiff attitude, the attendant had cleverly said it in a more tactful way.
"The Baron wishes to see me?" at this moment, it had only been a few months since the Baron handed the mission, the period of a year was still distantly away. Rumont didn't understand why the Baron had suddenly wanted to see him at this time. However, since the Feudal Lord called for him, he couldn't say no.
"I also have to bring the well drafter map of the forest right?" Rumont nodded his head. "That's alright, can you please wait a moment, I need to go get the map." saying this, he made the attendant wait in the lounge, himself going to grab the map from his own room at the back.
Rumont pondered as he went, the more the thought the more he helt it was odd. His own mission time was yet to expire, but the Baron unexpectedly couldn't wait to see the map? Did an unforeseen event arise in the midst?
Forget it, since it's already mostly drafted, I'll first give it to him to have a look and conveniently see exactly what his intentions are.
Rumont returned to his own room and took out the map he was going to give the Baron from within a bag. After a thought, he also placed his own copy within his spatial region, afterwards he opened the door and returned to the lounge in the drugstore.
"Druid Rumont, is everything in order? May we depart now?" the attendant was just waiting in the centre of the lounge, when he saw him come out he then asked promptly.
"Yeah, we can leave now." Rumont raised the item within his hand and said.
Afterwards, the two men left the store entrance, one in front of the other. Different to Rumont's drugstore, the business of Jeff's drugstore at the opposite was not doing too well. However, for some unknown reason today, there were people coming and going, not at all too tranquil.
A horse carriage had just stopped outside of Jeff's drugstore, it looked just like the one that Jeff had ridden a few times in the past.
"Eh, this is Master Jeff? So it turns out the rumours in town are true eh." it was apparent that the attendant in front rarely left the castle, he was still finding it novel and new that the town had unexpectedly opened two new drugstores at the same time.
However, hearing what the other had sudden said, Rumont, who was following behind, had sighed faintly.
Once he lifted his head, he saw a middle-aged man just standing at the opposite entrance, watching him carefully, yet with a evidently composed expression.
He would forever be like this, every time they met the Rank 5 Druid would forever look at him at a distance in this fashion. Rumont sighed once again.
"Master Jeff." even though the other would always give him the cold shoulder, but every time they met, Rumont would still take the initiative to greet him. After all, the other person had once been his Master, he couldn't lose his manners.
In regards to whether the other had a response, Rumont had never minded it. As expected, seeing Rumont ask of him, Druid Jeff's complexion dropped slightly and neither speaking, turned back around into his own drugstore.
"Let's go." seeing the attendant by his side display an expression of as expected, Rumont once again sighed out and spoke. The attendant nodded, however he still had a rather nosey expression, which rather depressed Rumont.
It was at this time, several rather ill-intent looking burly men had suddenly headed in their direction, their body was also carrying a dense aura reeking of blood. This kind of aggressive nature made the attendant, who very rarely came into contacts with Adventurers, want to raise his guard and pull his sword out.
The first person that neared the two, first cast a glance at the attendant before then suddenly turning to face Rumont and hitting his shoulder violently and laughing, haha: "Rumont, you can't escape this time now, go to Mort's Inn tonight, I must get you drunk this time! You really sure can drink hey, you surprisingly got me drunk last time, I must return the favour today!"
"Brother Harmon, don't make fun of me, last time was only because you let me……" Rumont forced out a smile. This Harmon was a person that was exceedingly influential as well as exceedingly straightforward; a new batch of Adventurers from the city. Having associated with Rumont a few times, the relationship between the two was great, thus he was always fond of Rumont for a drink. The other's straightforward character would often make Rumont feel both happy and helpless.
"You don't want to go? We can't have that, if you don't come you're not giving me any face ah. You have to come tonight, it'll be on me……" once the other again heard his declines, he haha laughed and again hit Rumont's shoulder a few more times. Afterwards, he lead the others and abruptly left.
Looking at the attendant by his side with his mouth hanging wide opened, Rumont nodded his head. "Let's go on."
The pair finally reached the steps heading towards the castle.
"Rumont, you going out again ah!"
"Rumont, turn around and head back to Boss Mort, come have a drink with me ey!"
"Rumont, don't forget to come drink with us!"
"Rumont……"
On the way, quite a few Adventurers had greeted out to Rumont. Rumont's influence amongst the Adventurers had been talked about often, but personally witnessing it with his eyes right now, still made the attendant amazed.
He was astonished as he gazed at Rumont by his side, he never thought that such a young youth would not only be so gifted, but would even surprisingly have such great popularity. Thinking once again about the rumours concerning him and Miss Eleni, it forthwith made the attendant regard Rumont all the more enthusiastically.
The Baron's castle. Garden.
Reclining in the chair as before, the Baron's fury had already subsided quite a bit. His hands were currently just fiddling with a scroll. Although his eyes followed along, his mind was entirely elsewhere.
"What area should I give him I wonder? I heard that the kid found some ruins last time, quite a bit away from the town. How about……I give that place to him……" his mind settled on a decision and the Baron then placed the scroll by his side.
It was at this time, the attendant that he had dispatched just then, had entered in. "Lord Baron sir, I've bought Rumont, he's waiting outside the garden."
"Is that so?" the Baron considered it. "Let him come in then."
"Yes……"
When Rumont entered the garden, the Baron had already swapped for a smiling face. Of course, once he saw that the symbol on Rumont had been exchanged for 3 copper lines, he was immediately lifeless.
Rank 3 Druid. This kid had crazily became a Rank 3 Druid!
Although he wasn't a Druid, but the Lord still understood that there was a Rank 2 spell called "Entanglement". This Entanglement, apart from stone tiles or within the castle, so long as as there was an area for plants to multiply, then it would immediately grow out a type of exceptionally durable vines within a 100 square metres. Able to trap the people within its scope and furthermore cause a certain amount of harm to them.
Once this spell was cast, it could easily ensnare a squadron of soldiers, which would then allow them to be easily picked off. Thus from the beginning of a Rank 3 Druid, they would have the possibility of confronting a small territorial Feudal Lord.
Seeing this situation, Rumont's mind was jubilant. He had only changed the emblem just then on the road, and had already seen the innumerous amounts of amazed expressions on the others. But, this moment was especially refreshing. He gave a slight salute: "what commands does your Honour, the Baron, have?"
"Oh, Rumont, you've arrived hey!" the Baron's lifeless expression was once again changed into a smile, a change occurred in his mind once again. His manner was amiable as he said to Rumont: "the mission I discussed with you last time, how far is it completed?"
"Reporting to the Lord Baron, I've already finished drafting a map of the two-thirds of the surrounding forest near the town." Rumon was not at all deceived by the other's enthusiasm, he only replied courteously.
The Baron's eyes narrowed. "You've already drafted well two-thirds of the map? Excellent, excellent."
This slight action of the baron was easily captured by Rumont. Rumont's mind sunk a little. It looks like there was a catch with today's topic.
"Your Honour, you wished for me to bring the map here because?" thereupon, Rumont brought out the map and probed out a question.
The Baron haha laughed: "it's like this. Because the zone of the Briar Forest abyss is too dangerous, and additionally I don't intend to manage that area, thus the current drafted map is, in regards to me, already sufficient enough."
As he spoke, he took out a document he had already written up. Slightly adding another line, he then gave it to Rumont: "this document here, I've said it last time already. After you finished drafting the map, I would give you a Esquire's piece of land. Presently, I'll fulfill my original promise."
Simultaneously he also received Rumont's map. He only casually glanced at it, before then casually placing it to his side. Afterwards, he fixed his gaze and stared at Rumont's face, taking note of the changes in his expression.
"A radius of two kilometres at the ruins?" Rumont looked at the location the Esquire certificate pointed out at the end, showing a touch of surprise.
He felt really surprised. Surprised that the Baron would actually give him that piece of land. That historical ruins was what he found the most appropriate for constructing a Druidic base of operations.
He had originally planned to wait until the Baron asked and suggest that location. He had truly never considered that he didn't even need him to ask; the Baron had taken the initiative to give him that land. Additionally, it was also a radius of two kilometres.
The excellent censure that he had prepared eagerly for dealing with the Baron, he had never considered that it would unexpectedly be about this matter……
"What's wrong? Think that the land isn't good?" the Baron had mistaken Rumont's intent, his face had fell slightly. "If you don't like that place, I can give you another area at the borders of the forest. The town can't be done. You know that even Master Jeff's chose the forest for his home. The town no longer lacks a derelict area."
"Also, if you build a medicine garden and undergo dealing in herbs at the town, I can also bestow to you a tax reduction, letting you enjoy the benefits of having the taxes on herbes reduced by half. How's that sound?" seeing that Rumont still hadn't said anything, the Baron spoke once again.
This was but the matter he had long thought well on, and further seeing that Rumont had became a Rank 3 Druid, he also added on another condition. His purpose was to make Rumont go to that remnant of an area and establish his base there; since he could save money in finding other territories as well as avoiding the other living in town, minimising the contact with his daughter.
Rumont was not a fool, why would the other person give him so many obvious advantages? Because the joy he felt just then, from obtaining the area he wanted, had shortly disappeared, what remained was a heart filled with uncertainty: "I don't understand, Lord Baron why have……"
"You don't understand? Good! I'll say it directly to you so it's clear then! The price of giving you land and bestowing you a tax reduction, is so that you no longer ever come into contact with Eleni, alright?" the Baron's expression was cold as he gazed at Rumont.
So long as Rumont spoke one word of refusal, then even if he raised a quarrel with his daughter and took some desperate risks, he was also absolutely willing to risk it all. A Rank 3 Druid was already at the limit of tolerance.
"Make me stay away from Miss Eleni?" Rumont sunk as he asked. Currently it was considered that he understood, he understood why the Baron would have such hostility to him. He also understood why the Baron had initially wanted him to go complete the mission of drafting a map, as it turns out, the origin was this.
The Baron coldly sneered: "correct, if you want to have a future. I've already given you a future in becoming an Esquire, many roads have been opened for you now. With your capabilities it might not be possible to become a Knight in your lifetime, by it's already extremely good in establishing your household foundations……Eleni also needs to have a good future. Hence, for your benefit and as well as hers, you two need to have as little contact as possible from now on. I'm currently using the status of a daughter's father to beg of you, I hope that you won't obstruct her development."
Rumont stared at the Baron. The Baron also stared at Rumont.
A good while later, Rumont spat a sigh out and said: "I can't guarantee to not see Miss Eleni anymore, but I can ensure I won't take the initiative to find her."
The Baron relaxed a mouthful of air. Although he did not entirely achieve his objective, but it was nearly the same. He hence said: "that's good. Since it's like this, 3 days later we'll conduct the ceremony of title conferment!"
–
Chapter 87 – Just Conferred (Start)
The news of Rumont becoming a Rank 3 Druid and being conferred Esquire, had rapidly spread throughout the whole town.
A large number of townsfolk came forward to congratulate him, as well as various Officials who he had never met. Within a night, Rumont had appeared to have become a upper society member of the town; becoming a dignitary.
Three days later, the conferment ceremony was held at the Earth Goddess Shrine; with the Baron and Eleni directing it.
An Esquire conferment was not as grand as a Knight.
The status of an Esquire in this world was slightly higher than autonomy and was most likely a retinue to Knights and nobles. If it was a military Esquire, they would follow a Knight into the battlefield and fight together by their side. If they obtained honour and military achievements then they could be promoted to a Knight.
Certainly, the age had developed into the current state, where the connotation of an Esquire was expanded. In general, most landowners that didn't obtain Knight or above, would all possibly receive this title instead.
Hence, it was only during the conferment that Rumont knew, that this Lord Baron would also unexpectedly have this many Esquires!
On this morning, Rumont had especially changed into new clothings. At the time he had exited from his store, the surroundings had immediately erupted with cheering sounds. This was the townsfolk cheering for him. Amongst them were Nick and Fafnir who were the most excited.
Rumont promptly waved greetings to the townsfolk standing all around him. With a glance, the Mort couple, Merchant Banner, Commander Howard, and the other mercenaries were all waving with happy and admiring expressions.
Rumont took a few steps forward, passing through the crowd and arriving at the front of the Shrine. At this moment, he discovered a dozen people wearing relatively gorgeous clothings, all nodding their heads to Rumont. With another sweeping glance, he discovered that the Officials of the town had also attended.
Without a doubt, the most eye-catching was Captain Karel, he wore ceremonial clothing and carried a medal. The astute would see a mass of strongly condense power enveloping him———Rank 6, he was surprisingly Rank 6!
Rumont shivered.
Looking at the others, there were 4 Lieutenants. One of them included Lieutenant Richard that had once instructed him. There was also the Shrine's guard, Chief Burke, Apothecarist Anson, Matron Madame Salin present.
The entire 50 soldiers of the Baron's territory also appeared to be exceptionally smart; standing neat and orderly.
It was under such an atmosphere that Rumont went up the steps and entering the Shrine.
The Baron was already inside, naturally, Eleni was also there. She wore a pure white gown. When she walked it would flutter about and expose snow white thighs, and her chest was embroidered with a golden wheat ear; this was the symbol of the Agricultural Goddess. However, what was most eye-catching was the 3 silver lines underneath it; this was the marking of a Rank 3 Priest.
Eleni had already become a Rank 3 Priest, grasping onto the spells of Light Healing and Preliminary Ailment Recovery. This was the criteria of her being able to preside over a Shrine, getting rid of the word acting. Rumont couldn't help but be happy for her.
Behind Rumont, a large amount of people with a bit of status or influence in the town, had all entered. They had a tacit understanding to respectively stand on either side of the Shrine.
"Lord Baron!" Rumont first saluted to the Baron.
"Rumont, you've come. Since it's like this, then we'll begin!" said the Baron. He took his gaze off the emblem on Rumont's body which represented he was a Rank 3 Druid and gave a look at Eleni.
This kid has surprisingly became a Rank 3 Druid, this speed is too fast!
"Alright. Respected Lord Vegas1, please bear witness." Eleni took a glance towards a Priest in a black gown. This was not a Priest of the Agricultural Goddess, instead he was of the Law and Contract God, Sardite2.
"Complying with the instructions of my Lord and abiding the law, I pledge for a fair contract!" Vegas conducted a short prayer before then nodding his head, indicating to start.
The Baron was expressionless, he only asked: "Rumont, are you willing to come into my service in accordance with the established contract?"
Rumont simply said: "I'm willing!"
Finished, he bowed to the Baron. The pair even embraced each other for a moment.
Afterwards, the Baron then held a small tree branch emblem to confer Rumont the land title; thereupon concluding the ceremony.
The process was quite simple. Priest Vegas had said nothing, and only used his eyes to record this brief process. At the very end, he signed his name on the document, to indicate the witnessing and confirmation.
"Does anyone have an objection?" the Baron asked loudly in accordance with the custom of conferment.
"None!" the surrounding people all spoke.
They then witnessed the Baron speak: "since it's like this, then that concludes it!"
Just as the voice receded, the sounding of cheers occurred both interiorly and exteriorly of the Shrine.
Afterwards, the Baron expressed that his health was unwell, which was why he had departed. Seeing the Baron gradually lead the group of Officials away, many people then relaxed, beginning to gather up and gossip.
Under public view, Eleni did not say much. She only spoke a few words and also withdrew.
"Rumont, how about we go?"
Rumont turned his head and saw that it was Merchant Banner. He had already cooperated with this Merchant a good few times now.
"Alright, let's have a chat!" He and Rumont exited from the Shrine, walking unhurriedly: "Banner, do you have any matters?"
Rumont asked, in truth his mind had long already counted on it, this Merchant was evidently moved by his land title of Esquire.
It was precisely as he had anticipated, Banner asked: "Rumont, your piece of land, how big is it exactly?"
"Mm, with the ruins as the centre, the surrounding 2 kilometres are mine. Only, the vicinity is all forest."
"An area of two kilometres, if it's not too desolate it's almost the same as a Knight title; you could establish a village. Rumont, I only wish to ask, how are you going to handle this piece of land?" Banner asked.
"Banner, all I want for my very first step, is to repair the ruins a bit and removing all the rubble in the ruins. Honestly, the abandoned Shrine would be a stable fort if it was renovated a bit." Rumont smiled and said: "secondly eh, I want to construct a batch of cabins on either side of the Shrine, first establishing about 5 or so!
"Oh, hearing from Nick's and Fafnir's family, they're all prepared to relocate to your territory?" Banner speedily gave Rumont a look and said: "has the Lord agreed to it yet?"
"Paying 100 gold coins, he agreed. From now on they're no longer directly belonging to the Feudal Lord, but instead to me!" Rumont spoke: "other than housings, I also need to construct a wooden fencing enclosure, I also want to construct a two-storied inn, allowing Fafnir's mother to manage. The wayside Adventurers can also temporarily rest there or perhaps purchase some medicines."
Regarding Rumont's words, Banner repeatedly nodded his head: "establishing a temporary resting supply station there is indeed excellent!"
"I hope that you can undertake these things. I know you have your ways!" Rumont spoke neither overbearing nor servitude, it was only business.
"Certainly, I'll take care of it. I can promise it'll be done." after a pause, Banner's expression had become more solemn. After looking left and right a bit, he approached Rumont and softly asked: "Rumont, you're already a Rank 3 Druid? I heard you want to make a greenhouse. If this is true, can you explain it in detail to me?"
Rumont slowed his steps, after pondering a moment he spoke: "Banner, it's true, I'm already a Rank 3 Druid and also want to construct a greenhouse. However, I presume you're quite aware, this kind of project is of an enormous expenditure; no need to mention that the cost of Daylight Crystals alone is absurd."
The market price of a Daylight Crystal was about 300 gold coins.
Banner of course caught onto Rumont's hidden meanings, he slightly wrinkled his brows. After another while, he resolved his mind and spoke: "how are you planning it then? I want to hear the specifics. If it's possible, I'm willing to invest a portion!"
This youth was a Rank 3 Druid, this kind of speed really frightened him as well as excited him———a genius!
Rumont's mind was extremely happy, he seized the opportunity to say: "Banner, in honest this isn't what's critical. You know, even though I progress really fast, but because I don't have a teacher for guidance, I don't have a firm basic knowledge of a Druid. If I aimlessly create a greenhouse, the risk is honestly too great. It's a big loss to both me and you in case we fail. My first consideration is to first clean up the ruins, getting an enclosure, inn and housings built up. This way, there'll be profits."
"Currently it's almost the end of the 5th month, just enough for an enclosure, plowing and tilling the land, dig out trenches, getting rid of the grasslands. Furthermore, wild grasses can be harvested from the fertile fields and be dried out as hay. There's also the matter of buying two farm cattles, several pigs and sheeps, several chickens and ducks. When the 10th month arrives, I can then start planting winter wheat."
Banner repeatedly nodded his head towards these words. Rumont was quite young in years, but considered matters like a calm veteran. After a calculation, these were no small amount of business. He thus said: "not bad. You can relax, I'll help invite workers for you to get the enclosure, housing and inn constructed for you. As for cows, sheeps and other tools, you also don't need to worry. As for your foundation, I wish to find Druids, it's still possible to use some money to find a group of Druids cultivating in systematic fundamentals."
"If you say it like that, then there's no problems right. I've already learnt some basics as a Druid. Currently, I'm a Rank 3 Druid, if I get a bit serious then in half a year, which would be about the 11th month, I could possibly finish studying the entire basics." Rumont said: "at that time, we can then build the greenhouse. The ruins below have an expanded underground room, we don't need to build it. So long as we have a complete set of Daylight Crystals, cultivate the soil and we it can be done. Although there's no altar of Nature, the difference is slight, but we can supplement it in other ways."
Banner's expression was grave as he repeatedly nodded. All along, this youth's performance and record had already thoroughly eliminated any uncertainties, he was entirely convincing; the youth in front of him was indeed qualified to obtain his investment.
Rumont saw that Banner was already entirely convinced, he then lowered his voice and said: "honestly, I've obtained an esoteric of some figure, which is why I have new medicines. If the greenhouse is built then I can greatly increase the production."
Banner's heart quickened at once, he had heard about these new medicines early on, only it was pity that commercially it was too few, it was barely enough to meet the needs of the town; it simply couldn't be marketed to the cities. Hearing this though, he urgently said: "so it's like that, Rumont, so long as you're able to give me the entire selling rights, I'll take shoulder of all the other matters."
Rumont smiled and said: "Mister Banner, I'll only make the medicines. As to how to use and market it, it'll entirely be left to you. Also, the construction process, I won't go. Even though starting a farmland is neither considered to be a violation of Nature, but I still can't go to the scene, so I won't go."
Hearing this, Banner couldn't help but raise his brows in delight, eyes laughing.
–
1. [維格斯 – Wei Ge Si]↩
2. [薩德達特 – Sa De Da Te]↩
Chapter 88 – Just Conferred (End)
"Rumont, you can be at ease. I'll employ a group of experienced workers, they'll quickly clear up the ruins and additionally, construct the enclosure and houses. As for buying a few farm cattles, that'll be even easier. Give me a month's time and I'll get it done!" Banner was direct and to the point in his words: "the complete teaching materials for Druid fundamentals, I can also obtain it via Old Master Sackville at his mage workshop. A Druid after all, is also considered spell caster right!"
"How much would that cost?" Rumont asked.
"Construction, clearing, the cattles, so long as there's 200 gold coins it'll be enough. Four Daylight Crystals, would be 1200 Gold coins. As for the entire set of teaching materials for Druid fundamentals, I'm afraid that's also require 1000 gold coins!" Banner considered it a bit before speaking out a value: "the total would be roughly 2400 gold coins!"
"I only have 1500 gold coins!" Rumont calculated a bit, and thought that it was also reasonable. He himself had roughly 3000 gold coins, but he still spoke with a touch of having difficulties.
Banner was also considered a somewhat influential merchant within the city, he had a bit of connections and channels. Since it's like this, why not get him to pull the chariot?
Borrowing money from him would on the contrary closen their relationship. If nothing was needed, then it would make it hard for both sides to cooperate. As a result, even if he had the money, he still needed to borrow a bi;, this way their relations would be a matter of course1.
"Be at ease, I'll loan you 1000 gold coins. Free of interest for a year, so long as you give me the future market rights of the medicines to me." hearing Rumont speak like this, Banner was all smiles and beaming with joy2.
Rumont was similarly jubilant inside, because this would pull his relationship closer.
Arriving at Mort's Inn, Commander Howard then welcomed him, using strength to slap him on his shoulder, so much that it hurt: "Rumont, you actually got an Esquire's state, congratulations hey!"
Rumont promptly spoke with flattery: "Commander Howard, you're currently a Rank 4 Warrior, if you want an Esquire's state, it's also an easy affair eh!"
Theoretically, what Rumont said was correct. Rank 4 Warrior Howard, who had generations of soldiers, would also be able to obtain an Esquire's state by relying on some Lord. But in practice, it naturally wouldn't be that easy. If he was a Rank 5, then it would actually be quite simple.
However, when Howard heard this, his heart nevertheless felt refreshed and pulled Rumont in. Once entered, the inside of the inn then bursted out with an ear-deafening cheer.
He then saw a dozen mercenaries come congratulate him, the locals all crowded to a side.
"Commander Howard, I want to invite you guys once to my ruins. Before the enclosure is setup, please help defend it. The forest isn't safe!" Rumont quickly prompted: "you can consult Mister Banner on how to arrange it!"
"No problems, we just in the midst of recuperating, we'll take this matter up." Howard said expansively.
"I'll still get it through the Adventurers Guild though, this way you can also earn a bit of credit and prestige." Rumont said: "the Rank of the squad at the guild also needs to get promoted! That's important."
Saying this, without waiting for a reply, Rumont then shouted: "today it's on me, bring the liquors and roasts!"
"Great!" immediately, another ear-deafening cheer sounded out within the inn.
The midday sun shone above the inn, a lot of people inside were drinking alcohol in big mouthfuls and eating meat; the Mort couple were occupied and frantically busy.
"Aiya, the liquor's almost all finished. Better go to the back and open another one!" Madame Mort said.
"Truly heavy drinkers!" Mort had a bit of a knot as he spoke. Glancing over, not only the mercenaries, the other townsfolk had also ran over for a drink; a scene of total chaos: "and they don't even have a close relation."
"They're happy for Rumont, yet they're also envious!" said Madame Mort, as she hastily placed new meats onto the fire to roast.
Mort hearing this, looked over and as expected, although a lot of people were happy for Rumont, they still had a trace of envy in their expressions; some were sour. He kept it in and didn't speak. Going down to the cellar he once again carried another load of alcohol up.
After all, even his own heart was quite glad, but it also had a trace of sourness!
Esquire. In the past they were retainers for nobles and Knights. Currently, they're already evolved into a proprietary name———a country gentleman.
Becoming a country gentleman, they would then possess a considerable amount of privileges. They could hold a governmental position within the territory. Up to now, any one of the prosperous noble households, they had all started from this point. This signified joining the ranks of the ruling caste; it was the first step in emerging from the social hierarchy and ascending the heavens.
Of course, Rumont wasn't currently there. For him to obtain the required recognition, he would have to lead a village. He couldn't supplant a village that already had a country gentleman.
With Rumont's capabilities, perhaps in his lifetime, he would then be able to see this village and make it of his own household; solidly climbing upwards.
Thinking of this, who wouldn't have some sort of sourness feelings eh?
The party eventually ended in the afternoon. The inn then quieted down. Rumont, Fafnir and Nick sat together, eating pies and meats and chatting quietly.
"When does it start?" Nick impatiently asked.
"No need to rush, it currently isn't safe within the forest. Wait until the enclosure is done, the housings constructed, and the farming cattle transported, then we'll move over." Rumont replied.
"Mm, in any case there's not many days." Nick drank a cup, explaining to himself. He had already followed along. The ruins were at the base of a mountain, the surroundings were forests; there was also a stream. If the area was cultivated, it ought to be decent. Rumont had promised early on to not take any tax: "our houses and farmlands then?"
"You family only has about 5 mu of land, why not just leave it." Fafnir said: "the land belongs to the town. Leave it. There'll be a use for it later."
"It's pretty good right now as well, the newly-appointed Tax Officer rarely finds us for any troubles." Nick said optimistically. With Rumont's elevated status, he didn't have to worry about taxation or the law anymore. Nick nominally became the vassal of Rumont. Under general circumstances, only Rumont could control him.
"Fafnir, you're also thinking of being a soldier, why not simply be the Guard Captain of our territory. What do you say?" Rumont formally asked.
"Mm, okay!" Fafnir answered straightforwardly. He had thought over this question for quite some time.
Even though the current territory was quite small, Rumont's development scenario was not at all limited to merely this.
Many mercenaries entrust their hopes to their Commander. In the event that their Commander was able to make a name for themselves, they would also follow along with the overall trend3. This was the practice of this world. Therefore Howard's squadron members were all exceptionally supportive of their Commander. And a few days prior, Lancas had also similarly received the hopes of his members like this. Of course, in the end their disappointment was also quite high……Fafnir was neither an exception!
"What did Banner just say?" Nick asked.
"I entrusted the development of the territory to him." Rumont drank a mouthful of liquor: "I also request him to purchase a new set of glass tools for synthesizing medicines. The current ones are no longer enough."
"This will waste a lot of money though, how about we do the work ourselves?" Nick had already changed his thoughts, rapidly planning as part of the family.
Rumont innerly exclaimed. In the past, granted that they were even better brothers, it was also only a personal friendship between Nick and Fafnir. It wouldn't have been a relationship as closely linked4 as this, with shared interests. This kind of relationship in this world would last longer than several hundreds of years.
"It's not important. Nick, we currently have many things we can't do. It isn't a problem letting them first earn some money. We need to open our eyes wide and look far." Rumont explained: "the population is still the big problem. With only our 3 families, we can't develop much. It'll be great if we had 10 families."
"We'll eventually get that. If you're not pressed for people, we could also get in contact with defeated Mercenaries." Fafnir said: "I'll go ask about at the Mercenary Guild, they'll always be there."
"Excellent, you can take care of it!" Rumont loosened his shoulders: "let's go, it's getting late."
Two of them grunted a sound, promptly drank some more liquor and followed him out.
At this moment, Howard and Banner seemed to have already finished their discussion. Banner came over: "Rumont, if there's nothing else then I'll return back to the city today. All various kinds of things are quite troublesome in establishing a village!"
"No problem. But you're doing it today?"
"Since it's all sorted, then we'll immediately get started. This is what I, Banner, have learnt from working!" Banner was a bit proud as he spoke: "Howard and them will also go back with me."
"I'm also going along. Just in time with Commander Howard." Fafnir said: "I'll also conveniently get a few small missions and also toughen a bit."
The people that struggled in the lower side of society, their livelihoods would always be exceptionally hard pressed and difficult. When mercenaries had big missions, they would need to carry it out together. In normal times when they're free, if it's not refining their martial skills, then it would be to accept smaller missions. These missions would include clearing beasts in the vicinity, it would even include chopping firewood, hunting and looking for medicinal ingredient. Abilities, experience and funds would be slowly be accumulated bit by bit.
Fafnir was originally of a Warrior household background, he was quite understanding of these matters. He was constantly paying attention, not relenting in accumulations.
Rumont nodded, thinking. Did himself need to find an animal companion?
Via a contract, the animal companion and himself would be able to share their strength respectively. They were of a tremendous help to Mages and Druids.
Theoretically, a Rank 1 Druid could find an animal companion. But naturally they would only be able to find the most commonly seen and most ordinary of animals———for examples, snakes, rats or spiders of sort.
With the Shennong Horn, Rumont's did not care about a slight increase of Strength or Agility. After all, the Shennong Horn continued to alter him, sooner or later it would make him become a stronger existence.
Yet, there were some powers, no matter how one transformed, would be very difficult to obtain. For example———flight and detection.
For him that had existed on Earth, he would certainly know that being able to scout at a height, and at necessary times even be able to fly away, was more or less a valuable and formidable skill. Hence, Rumont desired to obtain an animal companion of the flying type, especially a medium sized animal that could carry a person during flight.
Perhaps last time when he saw that brightly-coloured, long feathered Cliff Eagle, it was a suitable animal companion. It would generally live at above steep mountain cliffs, and usually in flocks. Adult Cliff Eagles could fly a person into the skies.
This was an extremely outstanding animal companion. It was a pity, allegedly adult Cliff Eagles required Rank 7 and above Druids to be able to obtain and further form a contract with. After all, the stronger an animal companion was, the power the owner would need to pay up would also be greater. If it was an adult dragon of a giant size, then granted that it was the legendary Rank 21 or higher, they also wouldn't be able to bear it, unless they were a Semi-God.
Perhaps, he could first contract a young Cliff Eagle? Or at least find a Cliff Eagle egg to incubate himself. Thinking of this, Rumont decided to mention it to Banner, to take note whether the market would have these kinds of eggs.
–
1. [天經地義]↩
3. [水漲船高 – Tide rises, the boat floats]↩
4. [血肉相連 – of one's flesh and blood (really close like family)]↩