ALL NOVEL Chapter 159: Big Deal I
If you asked what the biggest difference was after marriage, it was probably that new things needed attention, while some old concerns faded away. These two shifts defined the change.
Either way, it was clear that life would no longer stay the same.
In that respect, Bahamut was going through a hectic adjustment period.
‘Having a very capable wife… can sometimes be a bit tiring.’
Through this marriage, the Beden Merchant Company and the Uranos Merchant Company, which had previously existed in name only, merged completely. The Uranos name was relegated to refer solely to the Holy Empire branch of the Beden Merchant Company.
Since the relationship had always been subordinate, those who knew the inner workings did not feel much difference. However, for Bahamut, who now oversaw the unified company, it marked a significant shift.
Previously, Bertina had only concerned herself with matters related to the Uranos Merchant Company. Now that she had become the Mistress of the Beden Merchant Company, she automatically involved herself in business matters beyond her original scope.
In other words, alongside Isolda, there was now one more person keeping a close eye on him.
“You remember I told you not to take things on this side too lightly, right?”
“As Lady Bertina said. I’ve been flexible so far, but I can’t let it slide any longer. You might not see it right away, but do you know how much money is slipping through the cracks here?”“Sigh…”
While Bertina had no intention or authority to dictate overall company policy or interfere in large-scale operations, she had begun pointing out details along with Isolda.
As a bonus, many of those areas were things Bahamut himself knew needed improvement. With no room to argue, he silently accepted the corrections.
“All right, then. I’ll handle this part as planned, so take care of the rest of the paperwork.”
Isolda swiftly left the room with the finalized documents in hand. Watching her leave, Bahamut felt a little like a younger sibling had just exited the room, leaving behind a mother still lingering at his side.
Though Bertina’s points were similar to Isolda’s, her approach had its differences.
“Sorry. I know you’re busy with Uranos, yet you still find the time to help with this.”
“Whew… but things are improving faster than before. I made a lot of mistakes initially.”
Bertina smiled gently as Bahamut apologized. Although she, too, had taken on the role of nagging him, Bertina was adept at handling situations with delicacy. She was strict when needed, but she also knew how to encourage and comfort.
Since her target was her husband, she was even more careful in her approach.
‘Honestly… As the head of the company, this is something Isolda and I can manage. But still, we must help him correct what can be fixed. After all, Bahamut will become the greatest merchant, the one who holds this continent’s economy in the palm of his hand.’
An emperor of commerce who could control and sway the continent’s economy—this had been Bertina’s ultimate goal.
Now, as the wife of the man destined for this role, she was determined to help him achieve it.
‘The goal isn’t just a dream anymore. Thanks to my husband’s achievements so far, the foundation has already been laid perfectly. All that’s left is learning how to use it.’
The seeds of debt had already been sown across the continent. If nurtured properly, it was entirely possible to achieve their ambitions.
‘However… our strength alone won’t be enough. Many of the opponents are powerful monarchs with lofty ambitions. There must be a better way.’
As these thoughts crossed her mind, Bertina looked at her husband, who was diligently working in front of her.
With his familiar, focused expression in her view, she quietly resolved once more.
‘I will make sure… that you reach the top with my own hands.’
***
A carriage rolled steadily along the road through Schwyz.
Although it was not immediately apparent, two passengers rode inside the luxurious vehicle.
One was a young woman who appeared to be in her late teens, exuding a youthful vibrancy. Her purple eyes shimmered, and her long, waist-length hair was styled into two parts, giving an impression of flowing straight hair.
She gazed out the window with a slightly relieved expression. The unusual thickness and length of her hair made it seem even more striking.
“This is Schwyz… All I saw were mountains along the way, but it looks like we’ve finally arrived in a city with people.”
The young woman let out a sigh of relief, glad that the monotonous journey had come to an end.
Sitting across from her was another woman, with calm green eyes and a serene face that gave her the appearance of being in her late twenties. Compared to the vibrant young woman, she radiated a sense of composure.
“It was certainly a long journey. I lost count of how many times Ayla caused trouble along the way.”
“Ahaha… Well, it’s because of those bandits who kept trying to rob us.”
“Even so, wiping them out without leaving a single survivor was excessive. You could have just driven them off.”
The older woman’s voice carried a note of sorrow.
In response, Ayla replied lightly, “I’m sorry, but that’s asking too much. I’m not a healer like Elbafa; I’m a shadow knight trained to kill. Besides, on a mission like this, it’s better to keep witnesses to a minimum. As the saying goes, ‘The dead don’t talk.’”
“Sigh…”
The woman across from Elbafa let out a weary sigh. As she watched Ayla, who was now curiously looking out the window, a familiar yet regretful thought crossed her mind.
‘She used to be such a kind child… I wish I had raised her to become a healer, just like Roseveta wanted.’
As these thoughts lingered, the carriage came to a stop, and the two women began preparing to disembark.
“Are we here?”
“Yes, sister. Did you handle the letters and gifts? As usual, I’ll be focusing on my role as your escort.”
“Of course, I’ve checked everything thoroughly. There’s nothing amiss. Let’s go.”
With slightly tense expressions, Elbafa and Ayla stepped out of the carriage. In front of them stood a woman with red hair, waiting at the entrance of a grand mansion.
“Welcome. We’ve been expecting you.”
The red-haired woman bowed politely, accompanied by three or four servants. Judging by her attire, she seemed to be an executive of the Beden Merchant Company.
Without unnecessary conversation, Elbafa and Ayla returned the bow and followed her inside the mansion.
***
In a room deep within the mansion, the two women were greeted by a man.
“Thank you for coming all this way. I am Bahamut Fernandez.”
“My name is Elbafa Envy. I am honored to meet the head of the Beden Merchant Company.”
Elbafa spoke politely.
Bahamut nodded with a gentle smile, and seeing his expression, Elbafa continued in a steady voice.
“As we discussed, I present Her Majesty’s decree regarding the transaction. Please accept it.”
With those words, Elbafa handed over a sealed letter to Bahamut.
He accepted the letter carefully and began to read its contents.
And…
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