Helping with Adventurer Party Management - Chapter 106

To sum up Roro’s lengthy and dubious words in one sentence:
“I like your shoes. Give me a pair.”
It seems Roro had intended to forge a false document from the Count and buy out our failing business. Since we managed to avoid that situation, he hurriedly came out to confront us, or perhaps he was waiting, anticipating that we would choose to meet the Count. It’s hard to tell from his grinning, thin face.

“Kenji,” Jilboa urges me forward.
Well, I don’t think he’ll just cut me down right away.
“Roro-sama, in place of my master Jilboa, I will respond. We have just had the honor of an audience with the Count and have received his instructions regarding the shoe business. First and foremost, we will do our utmost to meet the Count’s trust.”
In other words, “I’ve already taken care of things with your boss, so you can back off!”

“Yes, yes. I understand. I understand. Your dedication is truly admirable. I also wish to lend my support to your noble intentions.”
Does he not get it? No, he’s using the same term “admirable” that the Count used. Unless it’s a coincidence, he’s hinting that he knows about the Count’s discussions with us.

But how could he have known about a conversation that just ended?
Most likely, while being led around the hallways before coming to this room, he gathered information through some means.
In other words, “I can see through what you’re doing with my information-gathering abilities!”

Our strategy’s success might have been an unexpected move even for Roro. For a man who is accustomed to manipulating others, people like Jilboa and me, who dive into danger and resolve situations on our own, are not an easy match.
If the other person won’t back down, there’s nothing I can do. I asked Roro.

“Lord Roro, I understand that you are willing to lend us your help with the shoe business. In what way can you assist us?”

Roro looks pleased as he exclaims, “Hee hee hee,” and responds,
“Well, you see, in many ways! Really, in many ways! I believe I can offer you various conveniences! This foot condition of mine isn’t unique to me; many nobles and officials suffer from it. The quack doctors said it was aging, but that’s a mistake! This is truly a magical shoe! If you leave it to me, this shoe will be something that all the officials will want to wear. Though, it might need to be made a bit more fitting for its prestige. I can offer such advice!”

It’s a frustratingly lengthy speech, but this dubious and smooth-talking man is saying two things:

1. The protective shoes will help prevent and improve bunions.
2. He will sell them to noble society.

Ah, and there’s one more thing: he wants to be involved in the shoe business. His offer has merits. It highlights a new use for the protective shoes, especially for the high-priced noble society. The business’s profit is likely significant, and even paying a commission to this man will leave us with plenty of surplus. His knack for spotting profitable ventures while handling purchases shows he has a sharp business sense. The decision is clear.

“Roro-sama, while we appreciate your generous offer, we do not have the capacity to meet your request at this time. Could you please wait until our business has grown a bit more?”

In other words, “Thanks, but no thanks! We’re too busy.”

Roro seems surprised by the refusal. After a few moments of stunned silence, he speaks,
“I see, I see. I understand well. Yes, I understand. Your business is still a young sapling. Hanging gold coins on it might cause the branches to bend awkwardly. It seems I was too hasty. I’ll leave it for another opportunity.”

In other words, “You said you’d pay, but you’re poor! I’ll let it slide this time.”

An awkward pause follows. Jilboa stands in front of me, blocking Roro’s gaze.
“Roro-sama,” Jilboa’s voice is colder and lower than I have ever heard.
“I advise you not to trouble my associates again in the future.”

I can’t see Jilboa’s face, but I see Roro’s previously smug face turn pale.
“Then, I will take my leave.”

Turning abruptly, Jilboa and I leave the room. Even though we have only moved a few meters, the air feels unusually fresh, and I let out a deep sigh.