Helping with Adventurer Party Management - Chapter 219

A few days later, I get summoned by Father Nicolo and go to the grand cathedral in the first district, where Deacon Michelino and several other deacons, whose names I don’t know, wait in the room.

Deacon Michelino looks much better than when I saw him a few days ago; he has regained his youthful appearance.

As someone of lower status, I initiate the greeting.

“Father Nicolo, I apologize for the trouble. Deacon Michelino, I’m glad to see you’re feeling better.”

Father Nicolo, as usual, gestures to a nearby chair without changing his expression. “Please sit. Your proposal turns out to be a bit of a double-edged sword. It has been quite the ordeal.”

It is the first time I hear Father Nicolo express any complaint, so I listen in surprise. “Was it really that bad?”

“It is indeed,” Father Nicolo says, lacking any amusement.

Deacon Michelino continues, as if to emphasize what Father Nicolo has said. “Ever since we announced the launch of the department to manage the church seals, many people have requested interviews. From the archbishop of this city to the priests of the church, regardless of faction, they flock to the office every day. I’ve been trying to negotiate various things since it is a good opportunity, but the sheer number of people has been overwhelming. These past few days, I feel like I am drowning in a great river.”

“I see. But it seems the waters are receding now,” I try to comfort him.

“No, it’s just that they’ve washed up on a sandbar and are taking a breather. The surrounding area is still full of water.”

“So? I assume you request this meeting to discuss a plan to restore order amid the chaos? Don’t keep me in suspense—speak up,” Father Nicolo says, showing his usual impatience.

“I apologize. First, regarding the short-term situation, I would like you to inform everyone wishing to purchase the pioneer shoes that we will undoubtedly sell them all. Furthermore, we should issue reservation tickets indicating the order of purchase in exchange for a deposit.”

However, Father Nicolo expresses his doubts about my plan. “Hm. I know that method of doing business. But will that alone quell this chaos? The priests will undoubtedly demand that their orders be prioritized.”

I nod, as that is within my expectations. “Indeed. Therefore, the exchange of reservation tickets, which essentially amounts to a sale, will be permitted if it is overseen by your subordinates, Father Nicolo. By doing so, the pressure to prioritize orders can shift from solely focusing on you to being directed among the priests themselves. This way, your subordinates can adjudicate these negotiations, allowing you to maintain some degree of influence.”

In other words, I aim to transform the dynamic where Father Nicolo is in conflict with the priests seeking permission into one where he acts as a judge among the priests themselves.

This would not only allow us to dodge the pressure from the church’s priests but also enable him to play favorites as a judge, thus creating goodwill with one side.

“I see, that’s quite a clever approach!” Deacon Michelino can’t help but voice his approval.

Father Nicolo seems to accept this as well and gives his orders. “Very well. That is indeed a reasonable plan. Michelino, arrange that accordingly.”

“Yes! I will get right on it.” Deacon Michelino replies and begins to discuss arrangements with the deacons standing nearby.

“So, do you have any thoughts on the explanatory meeting?” Father Nicolo’s gaze sharpens again as he focuses on me.