Chapter 27: Give me a slap and a sweet date
July 7, 1193 in the Guangming calendar.
Although it is not yet six o'clock, the merchants in Goldsmith Town have already gotten up, put on their best clothes, and are waiting at the entrance to the east end of the town.
Because today is the day when Baron Raven officially takes back Goldshire.
The first ray of sunshine fell on the earth, and with a burst of neat footsteps, an army appeared on the road east of Goldsmith Town.
Everyone held their breath at this moment.
Two majestic blood-eyed war horses were walking at the front of the team. They were two meters high at the shoulders. They were covered in thick and solid chain armor. Only their blood-red eyes were exposed. The hooves the size of a sea bowl collided with the floor tiles. Bringing up smoke-like fine stone chips, there is no doubt that once they reach speed, no one can stop them!
The person sitting on the leading war horse is undoubtedly Raven.
Under the crown of baron, there is a head of thick black shawl-long hair, a high forehead, three-dimensional facial features, a trace of cold white skin, and an unpredictable look in his deep eyes. The cold temperament.
Although he was wearing the flashy formal attire of today's aristocrats, his upright posture revealed a sense of arrogance and majesty in his bones, like a king coming to his own land!
Eric behind him was wearing a thick plate armor and was even taller than Raven, but he could not take away the former's limelight at all.
Led by a man with a red beard, the businessmen all bowed: "Welcome to the Baron!"
"Get up." Raven stopped his horse for a moment and glanced calmly. Passing the crowd: "Meet me at the Government Affairs Center later."
He gently pinched the horse's belly and drifted away amidst the clear sound of kicking.
The businessmen straightened up, and before they could take a breath, they all held their breath again!
This is Baron Raven's bodyguard! ?
The team of more than 20 people was divided into two columns and walked on the road of Goldsmith Town.
They were covered in heavy chain armor, their heads held high, and their faces were obscured by the shadow of their iron helmets, but their pairs of eyes of different colors exuded a frightening light!
That is not the greed seen in the eyes of Xuefeng leader soldiers that is common among businessmen, nor is it the deliberately fake cruelty when they extort money, but a kind of murderous intent that pierces people's hearts, the indifference after wandering on the edge of life and death. .
That look made the businessmen shudder, and they clearly realized it at this moment.
These soldiers really dare to kill people! And it kills people!
As the clock-like steps approached, the spears in their hands reflected cold light, making people almost think that they were about to rush into the crowd and start a killing spree!
Just one minute felt like a lifetime to these businessmen. It was not until the steps of the private soldiers disappeared at the end of the street that the sound of gasping finally sounded.
“Oh my God, it’s so scary... I didn’t believe they could deal with the rogues before!”
“From Men’en City to Xuefeng Territory, this is the first time I have seen them. Such...such a fierce army, are they really not just rogues?"
"Stop making trouble, how can a rogue have such good military discipline?!"
"It's over, it's over... At first, Baron Raven was young, and I was still thinking about getting the debt back, but now it seems that it is There is no hope..."
This sentence reached the ears of a middle-aged man with a red beard. He hugged his chest and snorted: "If you are so timid, you might as well go back to farming as soon as possible!"< br>
The person who spoke before was about to retort, and when he saw it was him, he immediately showed a flattering smile: "Mr. Karl, I was scared to death by those troops. Of course we have to listen to what we should do in a while. It’s yours.”
This man named Carl is the leader of the Goldsmith Town Chamber of Commerce. He is backed by the Fox family and is engaged in a hugely profitable business such as weapons trading.
Relying on the name of the Fox family and his considerable business skills, for more than 20 years, no matter who the town belongs to in name, he has been the leader of the chamber of commerce here, and actually controls the business lifeline of the town.
Now that the businessmen’s hearts are floating, of course he wants to bring everything back under his control.
"Just listen to me." Karl raised his voice and scanned the audience: "Look at yourselves. This boss and that gentleman seem to be a person, but in the end they are just a dozen private soldiers. I'll scare you like frightened rabbits!"
"What about Raven? Don't look at him taking back the flash! Jinzhen, but we still have the final say here! Without us merchants, this is a worthless place!"
Karl touched his beard and said proudly: "There is no war now, why should he? Bring all your troops here just to give us a showdown!”
"As the old proverb says, one-sided politeness does not last long.
Since he dares to do this, then we must also return the favor. No matter what kind of request he makes, we must first Let him repay the debt owed by Donald!"
"Whoever is greedy for temporary benefits, If you commit a shameless act of betrayal, you will no longer be able to do business in Goldsmith Town. Do you understand?”
The businessmen looked at me and I looked at you, and they all bowed their heads: “Yes. Mr. Carl!”
“Let’s go!” Carl waved his sleeves and walked at the front of the team with his head held high.
Although the population is more than four times that of Eagle Town, Gold Shine Town is not very large, and soon the merchants arrived at the door of the Government Affairs Hall.
With the withdrawal of Xuefeng’s bonded people, this place has become completely empty, and now it is occupied by Raven. More than twenty private soldiers lined up to guard both sides of the gate, silver His scales glistened in the sunlight.
Karl led people into the conference room of the Government Affairs Hall.
There is an old long table in the conference room, with oak chairs painted black on both sides. Raven is sitting at the end of the long table, smiling and spreading his hands and saying: " I have already saluted before, so there is no need to bother anymore. Everyone, please take a seat.”
This is not the first time that the businessmen have come here for a meeting, and they all sat down skillfully. Karl sat on Raven’s left hand side, and the deputy. The president, Feili, sat opposite him.
Raven clapped his hands gently, and maids poured in from the door with plates and placed glasses of red wine in front of the businessmen.
"You guys have worked so hard to welcome me early. Come and have a taste of these angel tears."
Angel tears!
As soon as this was said, the eyes of the businessmen present lit up.
Of course they have heard of the name of this fine wine, but almost no one has tasted it.
The first batch of more than 300 bottles of Angel Tears were all bought by nobles, and they had no chance to taste them.
"Then we would like to thank the Baron for his generosity." Karl was the first to pick up the wine glass. Seeing his actions, the businessmen present raised their glasses.
After clinking glasses and tasting the wine from a distance, compliments came out naturally.
"Angel's Tears is indeed a gift from the Lord of Light! This is simply the most wonderful red wine in the world!"
"Too bad for me, I always brag about my good wine, and think I collect it. What kind of treasure is [White Mountain Slurry]? Compared with Tears of Angels, it should be poured into a swill bucket!”
"It's so wonderful, so wonderful! Even if it's the fountain of youth that the bard calls it, it's probably nothing more than that, right?!"
A trace of an easy-going smile appeared on Raven's face: "I know, you are right When I take back Goldshire, I feel a little uneasy and worried. They worry that I don’t understand economics and will interfere indiscriminately; some people worry that I will support Denise and suppress the power of the local chamber of commerce.”
“This cup of angel’s tears is it. Let me tell you, I, Raven, am not someone who likes to eat alone. A person who eats food is not a greedy lord."
"As long as you can pay taxes and run business honestly as before, then you don't have to worry about anything. I can even release some of it. Angel's Tears, sold in Goldshire, I will share the profits with you.”
There was a low voice of discussion, and many businessmen’s eyes showed light of expectation - the profits of Angel’s Tears are still second, but if it builds a reputation, it will definitely. Can significantly increase the population flow of Goldsmith Town.
The more people there are, the easier the business will be!
"Sir Raven's eloquence is really touching!" Karl stroked his beard and said, "But I don't think you will let us take advantage of it in vain, right?"
For such a person Raven was well prepared for the question and immediately talked about it: "Of course, I also have my own needs - to expand the production capacity of Angel Tears and enrich the diversity of products. , next I will build a brand new workshop in the west of Eagle Town."
"So, I hope that everyone in the Shining Gold Town Chamber of Commerce can give me your full support - building materials, workers, and more. There are equipment and raw materials that will be used in the future.”
“As long as the quality is up to standard, I guarantee that your interests will be fully protected.”
Raven looked at the businessmen present expectantly, but they who were originally very enthusiastic turned away at this moment, not daring to look at Raven. The conference room fell into a strange silence for a while.
"My Lord Baron is so generous." Karl's voice broke the silence: "But, have you forgotten one thing?"
"Your uncle, Baron Donald, in Ten years ago, he owed us 937 gold coins to the Shining Gold Town Chamber of Commerce!"
Raven maintained a polite smile: "Of course I will not forget this! Note, 937 gold coins, calculated at an annual interest rate of 30%, then the total amount today is 3748 gold coins."
"My proposal is to extend the loan period for another two years. , a total of 4310.2 gold coins, and the Eagle Territory will pay in installments over the next two years, 179.6 gold coins per month.”
This is the amount arrived at after careful discussion between Raven and Old Gordon. It will not put too much pressure on the Eagle Territory's economy, and it is enough to show Raven's sincerity.
"The Baron is really shrewd, but profits are not calculated that way." Karl stroked his fiery red beard as if to catch Raven in his palm: "Baron Donald's loan period is five years, but Now it has been more than five years." A dark cloud flashed across Raven's face.
Karl continued to talk: "The principal plus interest for five years is 2342.5 gold coins. After that, on this basis, the interest will be compounded by another 30% every year, totaling It’s 8697.7 gold coins. It’s cheaper for you. How about 8697 gold coins?”
As soon as these words came out, the air became quieter, and you could even hear a pin drop.
The businessmen present all lend money more or less, and this profit amount is not outrageous, but that is for ordinary people and other businessmen!
To put this kind of profit calculation method of beheading and destroying a family on a real noble is something they would never dare to think about.
Eric, who had been standing silently behind Raven, roared: "You are blackmailing!"
Carl stared back righteously: "This is in line with Business behavior under the laws of the empire is also my legal right as a businessman!”
“If Master Raven insists on breaking the rules, then from today on, the Goldsmith Town Chamber of Commerce will refuse all orders from the Eagle Territory. Refuse to pay taxes and refuse to cooperate!”
"Seeking death!" With a clang, Eric suddenly pulled out the scimitar from his waist, and the rich smell of blood began to permeate the venue.
But the next moment, Raven held his hand and said with a smile: "Well said! As the old imperial proverb says, without rules and standards, nothing can be done. , Mr. Karl is indeed a model of businessman."
This is undoubtedly a sign of submission. For a moment, the businessmen looked at Raven with a little more contempt, but looked at Karl with admiration. many.
Karl showed a proud smile, which was exactly the result he wanted.
Forcing Raven to accept this huge profit, as long as Raven bows his head, Goldsmith Town will still be his from now on!
He, Karl, is still the uncrowned Lord of Goldshire.
"I'm glad to know that Lord Raven, you are also a person who respects the rules." Karl said condescendingly: "I know you can't come up with so much cash, so there is a better plan. "
Leaven put his hands on his chin and said with a smile: "Please tell me."
"You mentioned the tears of angels before, they are indeed the tears of light. A treasure gifted by the Lord." Karl waved his hands and began to point out: "In order to repay this debt, why don't you share its formula?"
"Let us, the Goldsmith Town Chamber of Commerce, produce Angel's Potion. Tears, and you can avoid the trouble and happily count the gold coins we handed over. The merchant's belongings belong to the merchants, and the baron's belongings belong to the baron. Isn't this good?"
Raven clapped his hands and said with a smile: "This is really the best idea!"
He raised his glass: "Then, let us have another drink for this proposal?"
Karl paused deliberately, and was satisfied that no businessman dared to move. Then he raised his glass, clinked it with Raven and drank it down in one gulp.
Angel's Tears are as mellow and sweet as the legend says, and such fine wine will be in his hands from now on!
The aroma of grapes, citrus, a vague burnt aroma, and a fishy, salty... bloody smell! ?
The air was so quiet that it seemed solid. The businessmen all saw that Raven, who was drinking, put a dagger into Karl's throat with a smile. This unexpected development made them even forget to scream!
Dang clang...
The wine glass in Karl's hand rolled down on the table, and the bright red wine spilled.
Seeing the thick blood spurting out of his nose, he finally realized what was happening. He raised his hands to grab Raven's wrist, but the latter had already retracted his wrist.
Raven... wants to kill me! ?
How dare he! ?
If he breaks the rules and openly kills businessmen, isn't he afraid that Goldsmith Town will become a white land? ?
The cold feeling disappeared instantly, replaced by unspeakable severe pain and suffocation. He covered his throat with both hands, but he could not stop the air from being squeezed out of his lungs bit by bit, and his body's strength was wiped out. Taking a moment, he lay down on the table with a thud.
"Kill, kill someone!! Kill someone——"
Amidst the sound of broken wine glasses, the venue suddenly became chaotic. The more daring businessmen rushed to the door. Some were shivering in their seats, and some had their legs weak and slipped to the ground!
But as soon as these businessmen ran to the door, they saw the Eagle Army in full armor. Those who tried to force their way out were kicked back by big feet!
“Quiet!” Raven’s voice rang in the conference room. The businessmen finally understood the situation and sat back in their seats with trepidation.
"Mr. Carl, the president of the Goldsmith Town Chamber of Commerce, coveted the formula of Angel's Tears and did not hesitate to assassinate Baron Raven in public. He was shot to death on the spot." He picked up a silk handkerchief, wiped the dagger, and gently Wipe splashes on The blood on his face, but an awe-inspiring aura swept away at this moment: "Am I right?"
At this moment, in the eyes of many businessmen, Raven's handsome face stained with blood was like As scary as a demon!
Looking at Karl, who was still struggling like a dead fish with his eyes turning white on the table, these businessmen dared not say anything, so they could only nod their heads.
The businessman sitting on Raven's right nodded frantically: "Yes... Carl went crazy and attacked Baron Raven! He deserved his death!"
"Your name is Fili, right?" Raven asked with a smile. road.
Fili nodded blankly.
"Very good." Raven nodded and looked around the audience: "Then from today on, Fili will be the president of the Goldsmith Town Chamber of Commerce. Do you have any other opinions?"
A short businessman with obvious dwarf blood jumped to his feet and said: "But this is not in line with the tradition of the Goldsmith Chamber of Commerce..."
Whoosh.
A crossbow arrow flew out of Raven's sleeve, passed through his throat, and nailed his body to the chair.
Smiling and taking a sip of the red wine in the glass, Raven asked with a smile: "What now?"
The air began to be filled with a strong smell of blood, and even a hint of filth. Children were among them, and some businessmen were so frightened that they lost control!
“I, I agree with Philip to be the president!”
"I agree, I agree too!!"
"And me, I agree too!"
Leaven showed a satisfied smile: "As for the debt..."< br>
A smile uglier than crying appeared on Fili's face, with a big gold tooth shining brightly: "Free of charge, free of charge!"
Leaven shook his head: "This No. ”
Feili was already confused: "Huh? But, but this..."
"I, Raven, am not a person who refuses to repay his debts." Raven said lightly: "Just as I said before, The total amount is 4310.2 gold coins, which will be paid off monthly in twenty-four months."
"Huh?" Fili was stunned.
Not only him, but all the businessmen present were stunned!
I fell out and killed people before, and now I have to repay the money on time. What kind of consequences is this?
Raven's voice echoed in the quiet conference room: "I am a person who values rules, but they are not your businessmen's rules, but my rules!"
"Karl who conspired to assassinate me and his The shops they own are handed over to the Shining Gold Town Chamber of Commerce for joint operation, and the profits belong to all of you."
"And. And as long as I can complete the tasks I assigned, my previous commitment will still be valid - some of the Tears of Angels can be shipped in Gold Gold Town, and you can enjoy the right to buy at a discount for the subsequent products produced by Eagle Leader."
As he spoke, Raven clapped his hands, and Eric picked up the box behind Raven's chair and slammed it onto the table!
The yellow gold coins flowed on the table, even if they were stained with Karl's blood, they looked even more dazzling!
Lei Wen's clear voice sounded: "I have many needs - daily necessities, building materials, weapons, armor, and food. Each of you can benefit from it."
"This is the payment for the first batch of goods. A total of 800 gold coins. Now, if you don’t want to trade with me anymore, you can If you go out, you will voluntarily withdraw from the Shining Gold Town Chamber of Commerce, and I will never pursue it; those who stay will be my own from now on!"
The eyes of the merchants present are no longer pure fear, but are beginning to be full of fear! Out of greed and thirst, their breathing began to become thicker.
As human beings, they have already seen Raven's trick - slap him in the face and give him a sweet date!
Now that I have slapped others to death, and the sweet dates are so tempting, how can they not be tempted?
"Sir Raven, what do you want!? As long as it's building materials, I, Hank, will take care of it!"
"And me! Daily necessities, from coal to salt, as long as you need them, you can get them as much as you want. ! ”
“I have the whole No. The best leather armor in Virtue Province, even the enchanted armor made of monster leather! I am willing to give you a 20% discount!”
Amidst the lively petitions, Karl’s body twitched and vomited out the last word. He sighed and fell down under the table with a thud.
But no one cares about his life or death.
"Very good!" Raven said with a smile: "Then, I will need the following supplies -"
......
(End of this chapter)