The core of the discussion revolved around economic cooperation between Fiesta and New City Ket Gwy, the territory governed by Rose. Under this arrangement, New City Ket Gwy would serve as Fiesta's special advisor and provide technical expertise. In return, we would receive a royalty of several percent of the profits as a licensing fee for that technology. That was the contract. Once Fiesta's ventures got on track, it would yield substantial dividends for us as well, going a long way toward alleviating our chronic lack of funds.
"Allow me to propose a few of the business ventures we've envisioned from the start."
"Regarding the potions, we are currently expanding distribution across various regions of the world, yes? We would like a bit more time, yes."
"I understand. I've left the potions entirely in your hands, and I trust your judgment."
It seemed potions were treated as miraculous items in this world, far from commonplace. If we ventured into mass production right now, nine times out of ten we would draw unwanted attention from other factions. Of course, if they tried to seize them by force, I would thoroughly eradicate them from this world, but there was no need to go out of our way to make enemies. Above all, experiments had already proven that high-grade potions on par with those excavated from labyrinths could only be brewed using turu grass harvested from the Forest of Deep Magic. Having Fiesta's personnel work in the factories within New City Ket Gwy's borders would simply invite far too many complications.
"You have our thanks, yes."
Linlin bowed, and I raised my right hand in response.
"Are the rest of you fine with this as well?"
"Yes. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your cooperation."
Gil rose from his seat and bowed respectfully to me.
"Hmm. Then let us move to the main agenda: securing personnel. Rose, give us a concrete explanation of your scouting plan."
This was the mission I had assigned to Rose six months ago. Naturally, I hadn't dreamed everything would be wrapped up by now. If she had established even a basic course of action, I intended to adopt it, formulate a meticulous plan, and put Rose to the test.
"I have successfully made contact with high-ranking members of the Liberators, an organization that supports the oppressed. Through them, I plan to negotiate soon with members of the Beastfolk who managed to flee during the previous war."
"Hmm, the Liberators, is it? If I recall, that was an organization that aids those who, for various reasons, can no longer live in the light of day."
She had set her sights on a rather intriguing bunch. Indeed, given Rose's current standing, it might very well be the optimal choice. Above all, the people supported by the Liberators were all individuals who had lost their homelands or could no longer remain there due to messy circumstances. Their common thread was that they lived lives constantly on the run. In short, they were the world's outcasts. Given that they had no other options to begin with, the chances were high that they would agree to become Rose's subjects.
After all, Rose lacked both political influence and sufficient wealth. The only things to her name were this barren, uncivilized tract of land called Eastend and a handful of subjects known as the Wind Cats. Anyone with even the slightest degree of security would never entertain her offer. Taking all that into account, it was by no means a bad move. However—
"Beastfolk, is it? Not bad. It's not bad, but is that all?"
I would have liked to see a little more ambition from her.
"Is that all...? Are you saying there are other candidates to consider?"
"Who knows? But wouldn't it be wise to look into it once more? The answer might be closer at hand than you think."
My investigation had already confirmed that the key person was at Ouboro Academy, which she was slated to enter soon. Since Rose had volunteered to transfer to Ouboro Academy of her own accord, she would likely realize it before long.
"You really see through everything, don't you?"
Rose muttered with a faint pout of frustration, perhaps disappointed that she hadn't managed to surprise me.
"Not necessarily."
The hardships that would befall Rose in the near future were going to be immense. Frankly, whether she could pull through was fifty-fifty at best.
"With that, this meeting is adjourned."
Now then, things are getting interesting. I have to devise a plan. A truly spectacular one, without the slightest restraint.
With schemes already brewing in my mind, I turned and headed back toward my room.