Chapter 15: Cooperation

“From Mr. Kafli’s words, it seems some people are willing to settle in our Caucasus?” Puber picked up the conversation, having also picked up the hidden message in the other party’s words.
“Well, that’s not certain yet, but I can provide the Baron with some information. Perhaps the Baron has heard before that the wars in the north are intense, with orcs invading south in larger numbers than ever before. The Kingdom of Nicomedia has also been attacked. Now, the city-states of Main to the west of the Principality of Nicomedia, as well as the city-states of Susor and the Principality of Melen, have been defeated. Refugees from these areas are flocking south and are stranded at the borders south of those regions, near Naples, Media, and the Netherlands. The number of refugees amounts to hundreds of thousands. Yet Naples, Media, and the Netherlands simply cannot handle such a large population. They have set up checkpoints at the borders to prevent these people from entering for refuge, allowing entry only if relatives in those countries provide guarantees. As a result, the vast majority of refugees are trapped in small towns along the borders. Now, all these countries are trying to find solutions to this major problem. If the Baron is interested, he might want to take a look; there could be many opportunities there.” The obese man spoke very concisely, explaining everything in just a few sentences.
These words woke them up like a shock. Komer and Puber exchanged excited glances, unable to hide their joy. But having been lords for so long and accustomed to ease, Komer was able to calm down and analyze the situation: “Mr. Kafli, the news you’ve brought indeed represents an opportunity worth considering. But I must ask—hasn’t the Kingdom of Nicomedia taken any measures to ease this conflict?”
Shrugging, the obese merchant spread his hands helplessly and said, “Unfortunately, the Kingdom of Nicomedia is also struggling to cope on its own. Although their army has stopped the orcs’ advance in the north, they have also suffered heavy losses. I’m afraid Your Majesty’s king must be equally worried. At least as far as I know, the kingdom hasn’t offered any help or constructive advice.”
“Hmm, Mr. Kafli, forgive my boldness, but even if we can recruit some people, traveling from the distant north to our Caucasus means passing through the territories of other kingdoms as well as many other countries and regions. Do you think they will agree to let our recruits pass?” Seeing such a huge opportunity brought by the other party, Puber’s tone became much more friendly.

“Well, that is indeed a problem. But I think at least the countries currently hosting refugees at their borders will agree. After all, having so many refugees at their borders is also a strain and burden for them. It’s certainly good to be able to relocate some of them. But as for moving them from those countries to the kingdom and other regions, that’s something Lord Baron, you’ll need to handle.” The obese merchant thought for a moment before adding, “However, if Lord Baron needs my help, I’m at your service.”

With a knowing smile, Komer stood up and said, “Very good. I like straightforward people like Mr. Kafli—direct and to the point. Business is all about interests, and I can understand that. But Mr. Kafli must also know that I, Komer, came to this impoverished Caucasus with nothing. Although I really want to pay you adequately, my finances are limited, and I’m afraid it might disappoint you.”

“I heard that Lord Baron and Count Ramla Reser are father and son. Haven’t you considered borrowing some money from the Count? That could also ease Lord Baron’s current difficulties.” The obese man’s sharp eyes kept moving as he rubbed his hands together and asked.

“Oh, Mr. Ramla and I have no financial dealings, and I don’t have such an idea at the moment.” Komer’s smile became somewhat stiff. The perceptive Kafli immediately noticed the problem and quickly changed the subject. “Then I have another suggestion. I heard that the lord is planning to develop a mine in the south. If that mine truly has significant development potential, I’d be willing to invest in it. Might I ask Lord Baron to show me the survey maps and information regarding that mine?”

Komer had to admit the other man’s cunning. He must have planned various strategies beforehand to gradually trap him. But this was exactly what he needed. The initial investment in iron ore was already huge. So far, neither Komer nor Pupber had come up with a practical solution to this problem. Of course, a merchant’s demands would be high, but if it could solve both current issues, even if the merchant’s conditions were strict, Komer thought it was acceptable.

“Very good, Pupber. Go and show Mr. Kafli the information gathered from the preliminary survey of the mine. I’m sure he’ll be interested. With a good start, perhaps Mr. Kafli will introduce more friends to invest in our Caucasus. What do you think, Mr. Kafli?” Komer nodded, ignoring Pupber’s unwilling expression, and continued speaking.

Seeing the other party reluctantly hand over the investigation materials along with some drawings, Kafli simply glanced at the most crucial documents before confirming that this was indeed a mine with enormous reserves of high-quality iron ore. If mined, it could yield substantial profits.
“Well, Mr. Kafli, I think our preliminary investigation results are satisfactory, right?” Kommer asked, somewhat surprised at the lack of expression on the other’s face.
“Hmm, to be honest, Baron, this mine has huge reserves. If it can be mined, it will indeed bring great returns. However, its location is too close to the barbarian territories in the south. Mining there could easily provoke hostility from the barbarians, posing significant risks. Also, with the Baron’s current financial situation, I’m not sure he can afford such an investment,” Kafli showed his true merchant instincts at this point.
“Hmm, let’s be direct, Mr. Kafli. Initial investment in this mine indeed requires a considerable amount of money. Given my current situation, it’s difficult for me to cover it alone. But I believe there must be some investors in the entire Caucasus region, so it shouldn’t be a big problem. As for the barbarian issue you mentioned, I promise to handle it myself. If I fail, then this mine loses its value for development.” Kommer replied generously, not hiding his difficulties.
“Excellent! I admire the Baron’s straightforwardness. I have a suggestion—whether the Baron will accept it or not. My friends and I are willing to invest 200,000 gold shields as an initial investment. We will hold 30% of the shares in this mine, but the Baron must take full responsibility for resolving the barbarian issue. Additionally, I’m willing to use my connections to help recruit refugees free of charge, considering it as a deposit for the concession. What do you think?” Kafli smiled, revealing his white teeth.
“Fifteen percent—this is the maximum limit. As you can see, Mr. Kafli, the mine is entirely composed of high-quality iron ore, enough to be mined for over twenty years. You must understand its value.” Before Kommer could interject, Puber spoke up first, his tone firm.
“Twenty-five percent! The transportation conditions in the Caucasus are too poor, and there are many other costs later on. There might be no income during this period—the risks are too high. This is already the limit,” Kafli shook his head firmly, managing to utter those words.

“Twenty percent! That’s it, and Mr. Kafli and your friend must also promise to build an iron smelting workshop in the town of Ugru to meet our growing demand for iron in the Caucasus.” Puber’s face turned slightly red, and his voice became slightly distorted as it came out of his lungs.
“Alright, it’s a deal, but on one condition: we need to see if the Caucasus has enough population and market to absorb it. Also, this is just a preliminary plan; there are many specific details I still need to discuss with my friends. I hope Lord Baron can understand.” Kafli also stood up and exclaimed.
“Very good, Ilot. Go and get that bottle of wine from your room. We should toast to the success of our partnership!” Komer also stood up and shook hands with the obese merchant to celebrate.
“Why my wine? Why not your own?” Ilot, looking reluctant, hesitantly got up and muttered under his breath as he walked away.