"You must realize, shipbuilders are incredibly valuable. What assurance do I have in handing them over to a noble of Tuscany?" the mayor asked, his skepticism evident.
In truth, I didn’t need the mayor’s permission to recruit craftsn or shipbuilders. Offering these workers better pay would entice them to leave the guild and join . No law on our continent could prevent this. But making enemies of the entire city wouldn’t serve well.
“Tuscany and Lyon may experience occasional diplomatic friction, but we are bound to remain allies in the long run. You needn't trust personally, but rather trust the circumstances,” I replied, setting the stage.
The mayor seed cautious, but he was listening. He had to consider that Tuscany’s potential adversary was Milan, while Lyon’s was the Empire of Hanover. We were both too preoccupied with our imdiate enemies to turn on each other.
“True enough,” he conceded.
“And so, helping now shouldn't pose any real problem, should it?” I added.
A faint smile crossed his face, a signal that he was willing to negotiate. But to secure his approval, I would need to offer sothing enticing.
“If you allow to recruit shipbuilders, I can ensure a steady supply of seaweed to the Kingdom of Lyon. For the next three years, I would also refrain from selling it to any other city within Lyon.”
Rumor had it that seaweed’s reputation had spread beyond our borders. People had already attempted to sell it off clandestinely, as Hans had tried.
“So all seaweed supplies for Lyon would go through Guillau?” he asked, interest piqued.
“Nobles won’t be able to resist its benefits. For both childbirth recovery and the enhancents for n that I’ve ntioned, the demand will be high.”
The mayor could foresee the business potential. And he seed aware of how a lucrative commodity could fuel the growth of his city.
“Very well, I’ll approve your recruitnt. But I expect the city to benefit greatly from this venture.”
“Rest assured. If Guillau becos a major hub for seaweed trade, your citizens will surely comnd your wisdom. You’ll have the unwavering support of the council and citizens alike.”
The mayor understood. He nodded in agreent, his hesitation dissolving into determination.
“With that said, I will require a hundred laborers from the city’s poorest quarters,” I added.
“Just that?” He seed surprised, perhaps expecting a more extravagant request.
“I’ll need sailors imdiately if I’m to start trading, and the impoverished will have a chance at better lives.”
“Take as many as you need,” he said with a shrug.
I now had the official backing to recruit from the city's skilled labor pool. The shipyard was bustling with artisans and craftsn hard at work.
“I wasn’t expecting much from a small port, but…” I marveled at the sheer number of craftsn. There had to be at least a hundred, if not more.
“What brings you here?” One of the craftsn, drenched in sweat, addressed .
“I’m here from Tuscany, looking to establish a shipyard. I need shipbuilders willing to relocate,” I replied.
The man called others over, eyeing with suspicion.
“Everyone here belongs to the local guild,” he said. “Poaching workers like us is…”
“I’ve got the mayor’s approval,” I said, producing the docunt.
The craftsn exchanged glances, dropping their guard. I approached one who appeared to be a novice. “What’s your monthly wage?” I asked.
“I earn fifty copper coins with als and a place to sleep.”
“How about a silver coin and half a pound of food per month, with upgraded als and lodgings?”
His eyes widened. I was offering double the pay and significantly better conditions. The others started whispering among themselves.
“I’m offering twice the pay for anyone who joins . I need a hundred workers, all ranks welco,” I announced, raising the stakes.
I could see I’d piqued their interest. I also offered referral bonuses for skilled sailors and captains. Money talks, and I intended to speak loudly.
And within days, I had gathered the manpower, skilled laborers, and a ship suitable for trade. We were ready to establish a shipyard in Vio Village, and soon we would embark on our next venture.
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TL Note:
Thank you for joining Fabio on his ambitious journey so far! If you’re enjoying the twists and turns of I Beca a Black rchant in Another World, I’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to leave a comnt or rating. Your feedback keeps this translation thriving!
Curious to see how Fabio's plans unfold? Stick around for the next chapter, where new alliances and challenges await. Your support is what drives this story forward—so stay tuned, and let continue exploring this world for you!
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