163: Another business proposal (part 2)

Another business proposal (part 2)

Something like this has occurred on a smaller scale before, but when? And, more importantly, how did it conclude?!1

Adela's eyes darted nervously from side to side, her face betraying no hint of the panic she felt as she grappled with what the right course of action should be. Aldric wore a half-smile, while Egon's expression was as vacant as an abandoned warehouse.

Her rational mind told her to accept the gesture of the higher-ranking individual, the undeniable King. However, her heart pleaded for a different choice, urging her to rush towards Egon and take the seat beside him.

Kaiser chuckled and stepped aside, saying, "My Adelaide shall occupy my chair, if both gentlemen agree."

Adela's gaze landed on her father's knowing face. Kaiser de Lanark had always been and would always be her hero. He would never demote her on his list of priorities, nor would he intentionally place her in an uncomfortable position.

"Thank you, Your Excellency," she replied. Once seated, the three men remained standing.

If only she hadn't taken that seat.

"I asked Egon to join us this morning for a reintroduction," Kaiser said, glancing at Aldric. "He is a prominent merchant who recently arrived in Lanark from Kolhis and has made numerous investments. I believe that collaborating with him would be wise."

Adela struggled to maintain her composure, not entirely appreciating the direction the conversation was taking.

"Lanark is a fertile environment for investment, and you are making the right choice," Egon's deep voice echoed uncomfortably in Adela's stomach as he spoke to the young King.

"With a partnership like yours, I believe unemployment rates will reach their lowest point in a decade," the Archduke added enthusiastically, then turned his gaze to his daughter. "Adelaide's managerial skills surpass those of anyone else I know. She has taken on the responsibilities of a male heir for me and her abilities far exceed my own. While her love for Lanark is equal to mine," he looked at Egon, "She is also deeply interested in natural medicine. She assisted Egon in establishing an infirmary for commoners in the King's former estate, is that not correct, Egon?"

"Indeed," Egon replied smoothly. "The infirmary was realized and made operational with Lady Adelaide's vision and efficient execution."

Adela stole a glance at him, longing for her heart to stop leaping every time he praised her, hoping that these formal words would hold less significance. She couldn't help but recall his words when he gifted her the falcon.

Are you still mine?

"Adela," Aldric interjected, breaking her from her anguish. "The Varinthian community is now suffering from the lack of working hands. I would like to designate Lanark as a focal point for manufacturing. But we pioneer so many industries that I'm uncertain which would be most suitable," he nodded towards the black parchment on the table. "Take this, for example. Unlike yellow parchment, it minimizes waste of trees," he paused, observing her reaction.

Adela's eyes sparkled with intrigue upon hearing his words.

He offered her his specialty, a half-smile. "I require a tour of the house, or whatever term you prefer, without being hindered by Emorian formalities. I need the authority of a de Lanark. In Varinthia, it is women who handle diplomacy as I have mentioned, and so I wish for both you and Kaiser to join me in a research venture that will benefit our lands."

Kaiser chuckled. "Why me? Much of Lanark is under Adelaide's name, and she is accustomed to this," he gestured to the signet ring on his small finger. "I believe establishing an industrial zone would require a location on the outskirts, close to our  workforce yet distant from the heart of the Archduchy," he paused, signaling towards Egon. "And for that, you would need Egon's cooperation as well."

Aldric ran his thumb along his bottom lip, his gaze shifting to Egon, who maintained a stoic expression.

"He possesses a significant portion of the forest," Kaiser continued. "He has already invested and built there. If he becomes a shareholder in the project, the three of you could embark on this venture together, minimizing wasted time. I will oversee and approve the final scheme based on your collaboration. Does that sound like a plan?" The Archduke's eyes shifted between his daughter and Egon von Conradie.

Adela's enthusiasm for the economic benefits of an industrial zone radiated from her, overshadowing the awkwardness of working alongside Egon once again, even though their current situation was tense.

She squared her shoulders and looked at Aldric, aiming to maintain some level of control, even if only slight, since the lands belonged to Emoria. "Your Holiness, the future of business in this land... I have a vision for it."

Aldric appeared serious as he interlaced his fingers. "It seems the proud Lady has conditions prior to her participation. I am an open person with those around me, and I appreciate finding a kindred spirit in you," he half-smiled. "It appears we share more in common than I had imagined."

Adela held her composure when her suggestion was treated as a condition, opting not to correct the King who appeared accepting. In stark contrast to Egon, who didn't even spare her a glance.

"I wonder if we can incorporate women-only projects initially, to encourage the nobility to allow their daughters and wives to step into the business field."

The young King's gaze lingered on her.

"...I wholeheartedly support you in that regard, but I did not come here to take unnecessary risks. Therefore, I need you to share some of the financial burden with me for this to become a reality."

The Archduke appeared pensive, while Egon tensed.

"I assure you that my kingdom is overflowing with riches. I would not ask of you what I would not ask of myself. I stand at the forefront of any battle."

He wants me to have an equal stake as he does... 

"I agree to your terms," she declared boldly, willing to gamble even the lands Egon had returned to her. It was a significant risk on her part, but the King was right—she was already taking this endeavor far more seriously now.

"Adelaide has expressed her interest in the partnership, but what about you, Egon?" The Archduke inquired.

"I must evaluate the situation more closely, Your Excellency. It is premature for me to make a judgment, particularly since I am not familiar with the individual standing before me," he stated with a meaningful tone, his words carrying a subtle reprimand directed at Adela.

When she finally locked eyes with Egon, something about his wounded expression pierced her stomach deeply.

"Very well, then," the Archduke said. "We shall send messengers to both of you with the itinerary of your evaluation trip." He frowned as he looked at Aldric. "Are you truly comfortable aboard your ship?"

Aldric offered a half-smile to Kaiser. "I stay where my soldiers stay. We can't all reside in your estate. I don't understand why you insist for the second time. You know I don't change my mind."

While the nearby trip promised great opportunities for Lanark's prosperity, it also added to the Lady's nerves, unsure of what the journey might entail, both professionally and personally.

pqdm.com