Chapter 215 A Business Proposition

Suzuka, captivated by Elara's proposals, asked, "I agree on goblin housing, the district, and the farms, but what about that protective wall? I want it to be a cinch for those pitiful goblins to build - sturdy enough to keep monsters outside and look good. Any suggestions for that?"

Elara, sensing Suzuka's enthusiasm for the project, tapped her chin thoughtfully.

"Ah, the protective wall, a crucial element to ensure the safety and security of your town. I envision a design that not only serves its practical purpose but also adds a touch of aesthetic appeal to the overall architecture."

Suzuka raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the prospect.

 "Go on, Elara. I'm all ears."

Elara continued, "Picture this: a combination of locally sourced stone and wood, forming a wall that seamlessly blends with the contours of the land. The goblins can gather stones from the nearby hills and use sturdy tree trunks for support. We'll make it low enough to maintain a welcoming atmosphere yet high enough to deter unwanted visitors."

Suzuka, pondering the thought, offered her initial idea with a sly smile, "Well, for the wall, I was thinking of using condensed stone bricks, specially made by an earth mage. You know, something that screams 'indestructible.' I want these goblins to put in the effort building it, and who knows, maybe it'll toughen up those pitiful creatures a bit. The more durable, the better, right?"

Elara nodded, though a flicker of concern passed through her eyes.

 "Certainly, a resilient wall can serve multiple purposes. But are you sure they're up to the challenge? You must be mindful not to push them too far. After all, building such a grandeur wall is very hard. Let's not forget that goblins are not the strongest creatures for the job, and might struggle with handling such heavy materials."

Suzuka's smile widened, relishing in the inherent challenge she was imposing on the goblins. 

"Let them struggle. It's about time they learn a thing or two about hard work and endurance. If they want a place in my town, they'll have to earn it."

Elara, intrigued by Suzuka's vision, pressed on, "We discussed the goblins; how about we start talking about other races you plan to welcome to your town?"

Suzuka, however, redirected the conversation, "Before we get into more details, I need to know about the cost of this grand blueprint. I can't imagine it'll be easy on my purse."

Elara chuckled playfully, then said, "Oh, love. I typically steer clear of such colossal endeavors, and our conversation has persisted solely because your vision for this town is, well, intriguing. For a project of this magnitude, the usual rate would be 100 gold coins per town district. However, considering how fascinated I am with your town idea, I'm feeling generous. Let's call it a special deal, shall we? I'll lower it to a mere 30 gold coins per district. Trust me, you won't find a more enticing offer anywhere else in these realms."

The mention of 100 gold coins nearly knocked Suzuka off her feet. Even the reduced offer of 30 gold coins per district seemed outrageous, considering she had depleted her funds acquiring the lands. However, she maintained a composed facade, her expression unchanged. With a poised demeanor, she replied, "Your offer is generous, but even with your discount, 300 gold for a complete blueprint is quite a hefty sum for me. To be honest, even gathering 30 gold would take me some time. I will have to hold back my plans until I have the gold."

Elara, sensing Suzuka's hesitation, adopted a reassuring tone, her words laced with a subtle flirtation, "Oh, love, no need to worry. We can make this work. Pay in parts, starting with the Goblin district. That would be 30 gold. You can hand me half upfront, and the rest when the blueprint is done. You will get a full town foundation blueprint with a complete design of goblin districts and when your funds recharge you can add to the blueprint new districts. But I recommend you take your time, think it through. I'll be right here, waiting for your decision. Whenever you're ready, just come visit me."

Suzuka, feeling the weight of her financial constraints, admitted, "Being an adventurer doesn't exactly fill my purse, and scoring big coin requires a stroke of luck. But... I'll get the gold somehow."

Elara, her words laced with a hint of hidden lewdness, suggested, "Hmmm... how about seeking out some... benefactors or supporters? You know, people who'd be interested in your unique vision. I must say, you've piqued my interest with your... ummm... let's say, exotic town. I'm sure you'd find others who'd be equally intrigued by such a... fascinating idea."

Suzuka acknowledged the suggestion with a nod, "Elara, you've given me a lot to ponder. I will need some time to think this through. I'll get back to you once I've secured the necessary funds. Until then, goodbye, and thanks for your time. It has been a pleasure meeting you."

As Suzuka wrapped up her business and bid her farewells, Elara, with a flirtatious tone, responded, "Oh, but the pleasure was all mine. It's not every day such a beautiful woman graces my humble abode and brings forth such... appealing ideas. Good day to you too, love."

As Suzuka left Elara's mansion, the suggestive undertones of their conversation lingered in her mind. The thought of seeking financial support for her ambitious project played on Suzuka's mind. Her gaze shifted to Hermit's questionable treasures, the tales he spun about hidden wealth and bandits' treasures, making her wonder just how much truth lay in those dimwitted goblin tales.

Back in her room at the Mystic Oasis Inn, Suzuka sat in quiet contemplation, surrounded by the faint aroma of scented candles and the comforting ambiance of the inn. The possibilities of her ambitious town project swirled in her mind, and after some time spent mulling over various strategies, she decided on a bold move - to approach Valerius with a proposition.

Realizing that such a meeting required finesse, she knew the importance of involving Larry. Swiftly, Suzuka rose from her chair, nailed to set her plan into motion. She made her way to the guild, where she anticipated Larry would be. Luck was on her side, for as she entered the bustling guild hall, she spotted Larry engaged in conversation with some guild mates.

She approached Larry with a friendly smile, patiently waiting for an opportune moment to pull him aside. When the chance presented itself, she leaned in and addressed him privately, "Hi, Larry. It's been a few days. How are you doing? Do you have a minute to talk?"

Larry, his attention diverted from his guildmates, smiled warmly as Suzuka approached. "Helen! Always good to see you," he greeted, nodding at his friends to signal he would catch up with them later. 

"I'm doing well, thanks. What can I do for you?"

Suzuka motioned for Larry to follow her to a quieter corner, away from the prying ears of the guild members. Once they found a more secluded spot, she leaned in and began, "Larry, I've got something on my mind, something big. I need your help setting up a meeting with Valerious."

Larry, intrigued, asked, "Valerious? You sure know how to dive into the deep waters, Helen. What's the proposition, if you don't mind me asking?"

Suzuka hesitated for a moment before responding, "I've got this vision for a town, something extraordinary, and I need financial backing. I believe Valerious will be interested in investing. I want to pitch him the idea and see if he's willing to support my venture."

Larry nodded, absorbing the information, and said, "Bold move, Helen. I like it. Valerius does have a taste for the unconventional. I can set up a meeting, but you'll have to bring your A-game. He's not an easy man to impress."

Suzuka smiled, appreciating Larry's support. "I wouldn't have it any other way. Let's set up the meeting, and I'll make sure it's an offer he won't be able to resist."

Larry chuckled, "That's the spirit! Well, you're in luck because I was about to go meet the man himself. I got a message that he was done extracting information from Hermit. Time to hear what he has planned with those goblin breeding farms."

As they strolled through the bustling city toward the meeting place with Valerius, Larry continued, "Valerius is a shrewd negotiator, but he appreciates ambition. Show him you mean business, and you might just win him over. Just remember, he's got an eye for detail, so be prepared for anything."

Suzuka's confidence radiated as she replied, "Don't worry, Larry. I've got something up my sleeve that will catch Valerius's attention."

Navigating through a maze of secluded alleyways, they finally arrived at the remote location Valerius used for his discreet meetings. Larry knocked on the door, introducing himself, and after a moment, a guard cautiously opened the door.

Larry addressed the guard, "She's with me. Valerius summoned me. Is he around?"

The guard, after a quick once-over of Suzuka, turned back to Larry and replied, "Yeah, Valerius is in the back room, in his study. Wait here, Larry. I'll inform him of your arrival."

As the guard went to announce their presence, Suzuka and Larry made themselves comfortable on a plush couch in the dimly lit waiting area. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as they awaited Valerius's response.

 After a few minutes, the door creaked open, revealing Valerius stepping out with Hermit walking beside him. The goblin at Valerius's side looked pitiful and worn like an old sock. His tiny, scrawny frame trembled with each step, and his oversized ears, which once had a peculiar charm, now drooped with the weight of past mistreatment. The shadows beneath his eyes betrayed countless nights of fear and torment. His movements were hesitant as if anticipating the next cruel blow life would inevitably deal him.