Helping with Adventurer Party Management - Chapter 407

“So, what did you think of the workshop?”

When I asked for their impressions, the craftsmen fell silent. 

Finally, one of them spoke after hesitating several times. “I’m not educated, so I’m not good with words, but I can tell this place is amazing. It’s big, fast, and accurate… It feels more like castle construction than shoemaking. Like people passing bricks and stacking them.”

That was a surprisingly apt comparison.

“Honestly, I used to be confident in my skills. I thought that no matter where I went, I could make shoes for nobles if given the materials and the opportunity. But now… I’ve lost my confidence. If this method spreads, will there still be a place for craftsmen like us?”

They looked disheartened.

“You’re right. This workshop runs on a completely different system than traditional ones. So, let me ask again: do you still want to work here?”

“Are you still willing to hire us?”

The three exchanged glances.

“As you saw, we’re expanding. We need more adventurer shoes. We’ll gladly hire skilled craftsmen—but you may need to rethink your assumptions.”

They nodded, accepting that it was fair.

“First, let me ask: when we first met, you said you wanted to acquire advanced skills and make luxury goods. But why? Why do you want those skills and want to make luxury items? Tell me the reason.”

The question took them by surprise. It was something so fundamental, they hadn’t thought to question it.

“Because… it’s only natural for craftsmen to want to master their trade.”

“Because craftsmen make good things.”

“Because if you make good things, people will value them and you can live a good life.”

That last answer piqued my interest.

“I see. So, make good things to live well.”

After saying that, I called out, “Toma!”

A boy who had been running around the workshop responded cheerfully, “Yes, Little Captain!”, and ran over.

I asked questions loud enough for the craftsmen to hear.

“Toma, what did you have for breakfast?”

“Um, potatoes, barley, and meat soup.”

“You’ve got little siblings at home. How do you feed them?”

“I bring home leftovers from here. Um… is that okay?”

“Of course! And are you saving your daily wages?”

“Yes! …Well, I buy a snack now and then.”

“Alright, get back to work.”

“Excuse me!” Toma replied, running off.

As the boy ran off, I turned back to the craftsmen. They were staring in stunned silence.

“Uh… that’s an apprentice, right? You not only feed him but also feed his family and pay him daily?”

“That’s right. I don’t like unpaid labor—and I don’t want anyone else to work for free either. Is that so strange?”

“Honestly, yeah. That kid has no crafting skill at all…”

“No, but he’s useful.”

“What about that other guy running around?”

“Same thing.” I nodded.

Some looked confused, others unhappy.