Chapter 183

Chapter 183

Investing Through the Status Window.

Episode 183: Business (1)

In Vermandois, where the Viola-Mercenary Group and Gione-Mercenary Group held firm control, it was evident that there was almost no room or anyone to intervene when it came to business matters.

Of course, if one were to try to somehow get involved in commerce or logistics, it wasn’t impossible, but it was obvious that the efficiency would not match the effort. Then, it would be right to slightly change direction.

Allen pondered deeply on what his greatest advantage was. What came to mind was the Milk-Jug Mage, Elena, who had opened the Mana Gate.

No matter how complex the mana structure of a magical item was, she possessed the insight to see through it, making her, in a way, akin to the arch-nemesis of the mages. Especially those mages who specialized in manufacturing goods.

So, Allen decided to venture into the magic item manufacturing industry, inspired by the luxury goods production of modern Earth. Since there were no patents in this world, there was no need to pay royalties even if he utilized the mana structures of magic items as much as he wanted.

Of course, to be able to figure out the secret methods that had been discreetly passed down through repeated development over the years just by looking at the items was virtually impossible. It was nothing short of miraculous that Elena, who could make the impossible possible, happened to be with the Money Grubber Allen.

Moreover, many of those secret methods had been lost when the Magic Tower collapsed. There were already numerous items whose production had completely stopped.

As the Magic Tower collapsed and the price of magical items skyrocketed exponentially, businesses related to that field certainly became attractive. However, diving into that industry was by no means easy, as magical items weren’t something that could be whipped up overnight. Not only was the initial capital or investment enormous, but the amount of time required was also uncertain. That was why even the Top 10 couldn’t dare to venture into it.

In that regard, Allen had obtained a tremendous business opportunity that no one else had.

Of course, it would be problematic if he lacked the power to protect such an incredible talent, but he no longer needed to worry about that. Not only had the status of the Allen-Mercenary Group skyrocketed, but Elena was a Gate Opener cherished by Ghost Flame Grenzo, and Iron Mask Viola stood behind Allen.

Now was the time to prepare to rise high through a new venture. To become one of the Top 10, one needed not only power but also financial resources and connections.

Thus, Allen acquired a large workshop near the inn building and officially embarked on the business. Of course, he started small.

He went to Vermandois’s magic shop and bought up all the items in stock. The cost of the items ranged from a few dozen gold coins to several hundred.

Naturally, he had no intention of selling the items in the Magic Tower’s typical outdated manner. Nor did he plan to make such items.

The perception of valuable goods would be maintained, but made accessible to the general public.

Among them, the one Allen was most interested in was the magic lamp that used magic orbs.

Light was something inseparable from daily life, so he planned to start with it and then seriously expand his business.

His first goal was to supply the entire Vermandois with something much cheaper and more widely available than the currently sold magic lamps.

Of course, the mana structure of magic lamps was extremely complex, something even mages who considered themselves geniuses dared not attempt. The secret, taught to only a few at the Magic Tower, was rumored to be as thick as two or three heavy tomes. Only after memorizing it thoroughly and perfectly understanding the structure could one barely create it. It was such a highly advanced technique.

Allen also bought a small magic lamp from the magic shop for a staggering twelve hundred gold coins without any haggling. Despite having the grand goal of business, the amount was so large that his hands trembled as he paid.

The Milk-Jug Mage, who carefully examined the extravagantly priced magic lamp, was amazed by the incredibly complex mana structure engraved on the item.

“It seems like it will take at least a week to interpret.”

“Even if it takes some time, just make sure there are no mistakes. It’s important.”

“Understood.”

“I’m counting on you. It’s something only you can do on this continent.”

Of course, there were three others who had opened the gate, but those who understood the principles of mana were unlikely to be enthusiastic about creating magical items just for money. Unless it was out of curiosity.

“Don’t worry. I will do my best.”

Honestly, as a mage herself, she couldn’t help but be filled with curiosity and a thirst for learning about the complex mana structure of magic lamps. It was a chance to witness firsthand the technical prowess of the Magic Tower, which had flourished for centuries.

Of course, understanding the mana structure was the most important aspect of this manufacturing, but obtaining the raw materials was also a significant task.

Especially acquiring magic orbs, the most crucial component of magic lamps, was the biggest task assigned to Allen.

Thus, he arranged a business meeting with Viola, the influential leader in the logistics trade.

She seemed slightly puzzled at the mention of magic orbs, rather than grains or minerals.

“Magic orbs?”

“I was wondering if the Group Leader might be able to obtain them.”

Being someone who was more earnest about business than anyone else, she could surely acquire magic orbs. Especially if it was a trade that yielded great profit.

“It’s my first time handling that.”

Group Leader Viola subtly hinted that it might not be possible. Of course, Allen hoped she would do her best, so he briefly mentioned his business.

“If we have magic orbs, we can supply magic lamps in large quantities. The main goal is to distribute magic lamps throughout all of Vermandois. I’m thinking of pricing them at about one-third of the current selling price. That should definitely increase demand. At least one per building, I assume.”

“You’re manufacturing magic lamps? Is it possible?”

Instead of asking how, she questioned the feasibility. Naturally, the method would be a secret that couldn’t be disclosed.

“It’s possible.”

He declared it without a hint of hesitation. However, whether he was a secret lover or not, she had to maintain a cool-headed attitude when it came to business, so she set a condition, just in case.

“We can’t procure a large number immediately. Magic orbs are extremely expensive. Let’s try to get a few dozen first. It’s more rational to judge this based on the results. In return, the supply price will only cover the cost and transportation.”

“Understood.”

If he could indeed supply a large quantity of magic lamps at less than half the price he mentioned, it would undoubtedly become an enormous business.

She didn’t know how he planned to suddenly manufacture those precious magic lamps, but she decided to go along with his wishes for now. At least, she wouldn’t suffer any loss. And he wasn’t the type to make empty promises.

Fortunately, obtaining the magic orbs wasn’t too difficult. The Magic Tower, their main client, had gone completely bankrupt, leaving a large stockpile of processed goods with nowhere to go, neatly stacked in warehouses.

More than half of the processing companies in the capital, unable to repay their mineral debts, were on the brink of mass bankruptcy. They were in a situation where they had to sell their magic orbs at cost just to quickly repay their debts.

Thus, Allen was able to procure a large number of magic orbs at a much lower price than expected. It was a boon for him in many ways.

Around that time, Elena, who had completed the analysis of its mana structure, attempted a more efficient approach. Having perfectly understood the flow of mana, she noticed some inefficiencies in part of the structure.

Simplifying the structure could reduce production time, so structural improvements were always beneficial.

And finally, the first prototype was born in the workshop, where all preparations were complete.

Allen was deeply moved. This was the moment they took the first step in their unique business.

Fortunately, the prototype was successful. Even its brightness and durability surpassed the previous magical items.

“Great. Elena, you did it! Well done. Truly well done!”

Allen cast aside his usual dignified demeanor as the Group Leader and hugged Elena, rejoicing like a child. She was equally delighted.

And that first prototype was proudly displayed on the first-floor counter of Allen’s inn. For commemoration and promotion.

The second prototype was gifted to Group Leader Viola. Of course, her wealthy hideout was already equipped with several magic lamps, but she was visibly surprised at the superior new product compared to the existing ones. Who would have thought they could actually produce a magic lamp? And one that was even better than before!

“Can you really sell it at that price? It seems like raising the price a bit might be better.”

“No, we can sell it. If the price is too high, it won’t sell. If it’s about four or five hundred gold coins, there will be plenty willing to pay. My goal is to sell a lot at a lower price. That way, we can also gain promotional effects at the same time.”

Of course, selling at a lower price meant the profit per unit would naturally decrease, but the plan was to offset that with increased sales volume. A kind of low-margin, high-turnover strategy.

However, Allen did not intend to sell only cheap goods. For wealthy businessmen and nobles, he planned to offer specially prepared items. They tend to avoid items that anyone could buy. So, he had to approach them with a strategy of luxury.

“…Understood. Then, I will supply the magic orbs periodically. Of course, I’ll raise the supply price a bit higher than before.”

“Of course. To be honest, receiving it at cost made me feel a bit uneasy.”

“It seems that you will be busy for a while.”

“Probably.”

…Ah…

Is it just my imagination, or is Group Leader Viola’s gaze, while fidgeting with her fingers, getting increasingly intense?

…That night, Allen had a secret rendezvous with Group Leader Viola

And he seriously contemplated if there was a way to increase his stamina stat.