"It is 7,865,932 kiels, Your Highnesses." ［Melchor］
A massive number, 7 figures chaining after one another. It was neither a thousand nor a few hundred thousand, but rather, several million. It was a number so huge, it wouldn't feel real no matter who one talks to.
It has been over a month and a half since Esperanza's establishment, and after a very successful opening of the mall, Grey and Yuna are now listening to the reports of the first month's summarized data, all the while drinking some warm milk.
However, the number they just listened to was far too large for their comprehension, and even more so, it seems like there was more to the reports than meets the eyes. The two could only sip their glass of warm milk, munching some cookies together.
"Hmm... Yuna, we slept just alright yesterday, right?" ［Grey］
"Un. I'm sure we did. We even woke up late today." ［Yuna］
"Yeah, that's what I thought too. Was it breakfast then?" ［Grey］
"No way. Are you mocking my cooking right now?" ［Yuna］
"Your Highnesses, I beg of you, please stop with the jokes. You aren't hearing things. This really is the report for the first month's profits." ［Melchor］
They tried to deny the truth, but it was shown clearly before then, printed on paper and a couple of stamps to be found here and there. There were a ton of numbers, Grey and Yuna's brains just shut down after taking a glance.
While it was true that Esperanza had seen quite the success, the figures uttered by Melchor's mouth were still too much. After all, it was still the first month. It would have been much more understandable if he removed a digit from the chain.
Grey and Yuna continued to munch on their cookies and looked at the report another time, closing it back, and opening it again. Yet no matter how many times they close and open it, the numbers remain the same, not getting any smaller.
"Haah... How tiring... It really is over 7 million... And that's our profit, right?" ［Grey］
"That is correct, Your Highness. If you want to see the revenue, then I'm afraid that we will have to add another digit. You can see the amount on the next page. There are also some specifics we decided to add to the table," ［Melchor］
"Normally, merchants would be happy about this... But this situation... It just doesn't seem right, does it? It feels so... Unexpected, I guess...?" ［Grey］
"So much money... No wonder merchants are so wealthy. With this amount, just imagine how many tasty ingredients you could buy..." ［Yuna］
"There would be too much to count, Your Highness." ［Melchor］
It wasn't just "Revenue" either, it was "Profit". This meant that all the costs from labor to marketing, research and production, taxes, and all sorts of expenses have already been deducted. It was in no way a small amount.
Grey and Yuna took a peek on the next page, and surely enough, the total revenue was there. It was just about 40 million, making their profit margin at about 20%. Even if they were to divide the profits amongst themselves, it would still be over 2 million.
Esperanza itself was successful, but so were the partnerships they made with various companies and businesses. The contracts were all valuable, earning them more than half the amount of profits they have accumulated.
Their expectation was to profit just a little bit over a million kiels, maybe reaching 2 million at best if they're pushing it. However, their expectations were quickly blown away, the real report surpassing their initial prediction almost four folds.
Moreover, it seems like the momentum of growth isn't stopping anytime soon either. The graphs and tables still indicate a rapid increase in growth with various projections and expectations already laid out neatly by the ever so reliable Melchor.
"There's also a forecast for next month's reports, huh..." ［Grey］
"Yes. It is a forecast put together by our best employees. If we continue to grow, we should be able to reach even higher profits. Projections have shown that we will be earning over 10 million kiels this month, and for the next monthー" ［Melchor］
"Alright, stop, we get it already, Mister Melchor. It's a lot of money." ［Grey］
"Too much, actually... Does Cedric already know?" ［Yuna］
"Yes. His Excellency had also received the report." ［Melchor］
They have yet to see Cedric's face, but they know that even if he was the one dealing with overall administration, he would also be shocked by the results. He would be as surprised as they are, finding it hard to believe such a large sum.
Well, not that they could blame him anyway. With the rate things are going, it won't be long before Yuna becomes a Gold-Rank Merchant in the Merchants' Guild, and soon enough, maybe even platinum. Everything went by so fast.
Grey and Yuna only suggested the idea of a shopping mall on a whim, but now, it has become a full-blown business which not only helps out people in need, but also gives fun and joy for the people to enjoy.
Now, Grey and Yuna could finally rest easy. With everyone working so hard, it won't be long before they can stand up with their own legs again. It may take some time, but it was something to look forward to. A bright future for everyone.
"Do you need another glass of warm milk, Your Highnesses?" ［Melchor］
"No, it's alright... Rather, should we move on to the next topic?" ［Grey］
"Then, please receive these reports. Here, we have...." ［Melchor］
After the tiring and lengthy financial report, it was now time to talk about a couple more interesting things they could apply to Esperanza. Grey and Yuna brought a couple of ideas into the table, Melchor reviewing them soon after.
There were foodstuffs, fun items children would like, brilliant additions and solutions to Esperanza's problems. Most were ideas Grey retrieved from his memories of his past life, though some were entirely theirs. A rain of ideas poured from the sky.
Just like that, time passed by in a flash and before long, Grey and Yuna left the office, such brilliant and beautiful smiles blooming on their faces. They loitered around the workshops a little more, enjoying the peaceful sight painted all over the place.
"Ohh! Congratulations, newbie! You finally did it!"
"It's all because of your help, Seniors! Thank you very much!"
"What are you talking about? It's all because you're a hard worker!"
"Yeah! Cheer up, newbie! We'll be drinking tonight!"
On the way, they also heard a handful of loud voices, ringing throughout the halls as they passed by them. It came from the Alchemy Laboratories, quite the number of workers celebrating with merry and cheery voices.
It seems that one of the new employees have finally concocted the reagents and basic items Esperanza sells, now brimming with joy as he relished on his success, unable to hide his smile as he thanked his seniors for sticking through with him.
"Hey, what did I hear about you all drinking tonight?"
"Ah! Manager... It's... well... We were just celebrating the newbie's success..."
"Y... Yeah... He finally pulled himself together and made the basics..."
The manager soon arrived and soon, silence swallowed the air, the merry folk now completely quiet as if they were getting a scolding. Grey and Yuna don't see them, but they could imagine what kind of expressions they were making.
"The newbie, huh... I see... Then the drinks are on me tonight. Just make sure not to drink too much. We still have work tomorrow."
"Y-Yes! Thank you very much, Manager!"
"Ouhhh! Did you hear that, newbie?! The Manager is treating us!"
"You're the best, Manager! All hail! All hail!"
Though, it seemed like there was actually no need to worry. The Manager was not there to reprimand them but just checked on what made them so merry and rowdy, even treating them for the night, much to everyone's delight.
Grey and Yuna could only chuckle at the Alchemy Department's little antics. It has only been barely about 2 months since they started working together, yet they could already tell they will be having a great relationship in the future.
The two continued to walk, meeting the said manager along the way. As a bonus to celebrate the grant success of the 1st month of the business, they decided to add a couple dimes to the table and gave him some coins to treat themselves with.
Alcohol was a no-go for the both of them with their childish taste buds, but at the very least, they could make their people enjoy themselves. They have a couple million to spare anyway, the two continuing their stroll with smiles on their faces.
"Mister Gartes, can you teach me how to do this part again?"
"Hm? Again? Are you sure you're a blacksmith, boy?" ［Gartes］
"Haha... I'm quite forgetful, really..."
"Haah... It can't be helped then. Pay attention this time, alright?" ［Gartes］
It wasn't just the Alchemy Department that they visited, but any and all they could come across. They all decided to give them all a little bonus, with a little warning not to go overboard, of course. Now, it was the Smithing Department's turn.
Though, it seems like everyone was still busy and focused with their work, Gartes now teaching quite a lot of the younger smiths after reaching Tier-5 just recently. He has become even motivated to work, wielding his hammer with pride everyday.
CLANG CLANG CLANG CLANG CRACKLE CRACKLE
The man pulled the hot piece of metal out of the forge and started hammering time and time again. Clear and resonant clangs echoed in the air, a simple symphony ringing beautifully as the metal's shape slowly got changed.
He continued to strike and the younger blacksmith watched eyes bright as the flames of the forge. He made sure to remember his strikes clearly, eager to make a weapon he could also be proud of, the embers in his heart starting a fire.
Grey and Yuna took a little peek, and though subtle, Gartes was improving yet again, his strikes more stable and consistent than the last time they saw it. It seems like all he needed was some good instructions and he could follow along quickly.
Gartes was much slower in learning than the two of them, but still much better than most. As long as he is guided properly, he should be able to reach an even higher smithing rank within a year or two at the latest.
"Phew... That's how you do it. Do you have any questions?" ［Gartes］
"N-No, I think I got it, Mister Gartes. Thank you very much!"
"Sure, anytime. Now, don't just stand there, start smithing already." ［Gartes］
"Yes! I will be doing so!"
With a newfound motivation in his heart, the young blacksmith then rushed back to his station and applied the little tips and tricks Gartes told him. His movements were still unrefined, but he was getting there, slowly but surely.
It didn't take long before Grey and Yuna were noticed by Gartes, and after a little bit of a chat, they told him the good news they bore. All the smiths were delighted at the sound of a bonus, everyone cheering soon after.
Of course, with their personality as it is, everyone was fired up by the little carrot on the stick laid before them. They forged and hammered with great vigor, making quite the bright faces as they poured their very best into their works.
"Then, we'll be taking our leave now. Do your best." ［Grey］
"Good luck, everyone～! We'll be cheering on you!" ［Yuna］
"Yes! Thank you for dropping by, Your Highnesses!" ［Gartes］
Yet another department down, Grey and Yuna continuing their little adventure, and after a couple more visits, all departments already heard the good news, everyone cheering and celebrating on the top of their lungs.
The night was still far, but they could already tell some will be going overboard with their drinks. Not that there was any need for worry though. They could just dispel their hangovers with some quick but bitter concoctions. Not that it's their problem though.
Just like that, Grey and Yuna continued their stroll, and soon enough, arrived at the structures and buildings dedicated to the children. Everyone was dedicated to their dreams, doing the best they could to achieve it.
As they walked by, they saw a young girl sitting by the rocks, in her hands was a simple book. Yet despite how simple it was, she read with her eyes filled with sparkles, a smile blooming on her face as she flipped through the pages.
"Oh my, isn't this Misa? What are you doing here all alone?" ［Yuna］
"A-Ah, Big Sis! Big Bro! Good morning!" ［Misa］
"Good morning as well. Is it time for your independent learning session?" ［Grey］
"Yes, that is the case. And I'm not alone either. My friends are just getting their snacks and water. They will be back soon." ［Misa］
"Fufufu! I see. What diligent children～!" ［Yuna］
Giggled Yuna as she patted the little girl on the head, much to the latter's delight, her cheeks flushed a little from embarrassment. Not that she hated it though. She may act more mature than her age, but she was still but a child.
Apparently, it is now time for their independent learning session, the time where the children learning can explore by themselves and understand themselves rather than the lessons. They could take a break, read a book, or do anything they wanted to.
And currently, Misa was reading the book named "The Basics of Commerce" which, like the name implies, teaches people the basics of commerce and marketing. It was a helpful tool to get started with business and take little steps forward.
"The basics of commerce, huh... Do you want to be a merchant, Misa?" ［Yuna］
"No, I don't want to... But I want to be a manager of Esperanza one day. For that, I need other skills, not just knowledge in enchanting." ［Misa］
"Oh dear, you don't need to push yourself that hard, you know?" ［Yuna］
"That's right. You're still young, Misa, so there's still a lot of time for you. You can take your steps slowly. No one is rushing you." ［Grey］
"No, it's okay... Thank you for worrying, but I'm not pushing myself very hard, Big Bro, Big Sis. I'm just doing my best to achieve my dreams so it isn't anything burdensome. I just like doing it, and... Learning is really fun!" ［Misa］
Replied the young lady, a bright and cheerful smile blooming on her face. She now has a dream she wanted to chase, and for that, she was working hard and striving for it. It may take quite a while, but she was willing to wait as long as it takes.
It wasn't just Misa either. Just a couple dozen meters away, one could find a handful of children running around and striking rocks against one another, learning how to start a fire in many different ways, and what kind of firewood was best.
They were the children aspiring to be adventurers, Reed amongst them, learning everything they can from their instructors, making sure they don't waste the seldom opportunities given to them. Everyone was working hard to achieve their dreams.
"Fufufu! You really are a hard worker, Misa... But remember that you aren't alone, okay? Whenever you're having a hard time, you can always count on us." ［Yuna］
"Yeah. There's also your instructors and your classmates. You're still a child so don't burden yourself too much. Have some fun from time to time as well." ［Grey］
"Yes! I'll keep that in mind!" ［Misa］
Said the bright child as she beamed a bright smile to Grey and Yuna. She was just a little younger than Eliza and Iris, but if they introduce her to them, they will surely get along well. Oh, how dreamy would that day be?
"Then, with that out of the way... Would you like some candy, Misa?" ［Yuna］
"Really?! C-Can I?!" ［Misa］
"Of course, have as many as you want!" ［Yuna］
"Y-Yes! Thank you very much, Big Sis! Ah! Big Bro too!" ［Misa］
Just a couple pieces of candy and her smile reached from ear to ear. She smiled the brightest she could, then munching on the candy that Yuna happily offered her. She really was a child, the two chuckling and giggling all the while.
Grey and Yuna stayed in the practice grounds for several minutes, accompanying Misa until her friends came back. They also greeted them with bright smiles, such adorable children crowding and fawning over them.
After leaving the practice grounds and some snacks for the children to enjoy, Grey and Yuna then headed towards the Merchants' Guild to report their monthly profit. It was a requirement of the Guild and also a measure of their abilities.
If Grey and Yuna maintain the same amount of earnings for a couple months, then Yuna will surely be granted a Gold-Rank Guild card. As for Grey, he already has one, but if he earns quite a bit more, he will reach Platinum-Rank.
"Grey, Yuna, please have these. They're invitations." ［Mila］
"Invitations...? For what...?" ［Grey］
"For my wedding. I'm getting married in a couple of weeks." ［Mila］
And on the way, they received an unexpected invitation from Mila. It seems like their favorite Merchants' Guild receptionist was finally married. She's already in her mid-twenties so it was about high time. Grey and Yuna were just a little surprised.
The sudden invitation aside, it didn't take long before Grey and Yuna finished all the documents and papers they needed to, hopping by the Rabbit's Den for a delicious meal and some quick chats, then heading home soon after.
As soon as they arrived home, they then lay down on the couch and lazed around for the whole afternoonー or at least, that was the plan. However, just before they could grab a snack and relax, a sudden ring came echoing from the cellphone.
「Hello, this is Yuna speakー」 ［Yuna］
「Ah! Yuna! Help me! I'm in a dire situation right now!」 ［Elise］
「Ah, Elise. Hello... Is this about George again?」 ［Yuna］
「Yes! I'm sorry to always bother you! I'm really sorry! But actually.....」 ［Elise］
It was none other than Elise, who is now troubled by the matters of love she had never experienced before, head filled with confusion as she tried to navigate such a difficult maze, nothing but inexperience in her bag.
It has been almost a week since the Hunting Competition, and since, Elise has been calling them for advice. They aren't exactly dating yet, but George has been quite the gentleman, courting her seriously yet gently every single day.
Grey and Yuna could still remember Fritz' glorious reaction when he heard about what happened during the Hunting Competition, a deafening "Whaaaaat?!" ringing from the other side of the phone. It was quite a spectacle.
And now, to her troubles, Elise has been running to Grey and Yuna for advice and the two obliged with her. It was fun seeing the usually cheerful Elsie panic so much, that they just couldn't help it. She was just too lovely.
「I see... So George asked if you're free tomorrow, huh...」 ［Grey］
「Isn't he just inviting you on a date? That's what it sounds to me,」 ［Yuna］
「That seems to be the case... Grey... Yuna... What should I do...?」 ［Elise］
「Hmm... If it's like this, then I guess... Hmm... Elise, listen closely...」 ［Grey］
And right now, it seems like George has invited Elise out on a date, the young lady panicking about what to do and asking Grey and Yuna immediately. Having almost 2 years of experience already, they are like masters to her already.
Of course, while they found it cute and funny to act in such a way, Grey and Yuna still did their best to give her some advice. They don't know much of their situation, but they could still help her out. They only wish the best for her.
「Th-Thank you very much! Really! Thank you so much! Grey! Yuna!」 ［Elise］
「Don't start sobbing on us now. You still have something to prepare for, don't you? Don't dawdle around and go get them, Cadet.」 ［Grey］
「Un! Best of luck, Elise! We'll cheering for you～!」 ［Yuna］
「Yes! I'll make sure to make it up to you someday. Bye～!」 ［Elise］
Finally, the call was over and Grey and Yuna could finally relax. They could only giggle and chuckle as they looked forward to how things would turn out for Elise and George.... Well, it has been quite the hectic day, after all.
With all that out of the way, Grey and Yuna then started their afternoon lazing around, cuddling with one another as they ate snacks, played games, and talked about all sorts of things. They were especially fussy about Mila's upcoming wedding.
After all, they themselves are also engaged to one another. They still don't know when they'll get married, but someday, they will become husband and wife. They could only do so much but wonder what the future holds for them.
"Marriage, huh... I wonder what I should call you then... Dear...? Honey? Darling? Maybe 'Sweetheart'...? No, should I just call you 'Love'?" ［Yuna］
"Why are you thinking so hard? Just call me by my name, silly." ［Grey］
"Ehhh～?! But you always call me so affectionately... Why am I the only one not allowed to call you that? I also want to do it! This is unfair!" ［Yuna］
"Now, now, don't start throwing a tantrum, My Love." ［Grey］
"See?! You're doing it again!" ［Yuna］
Argued the young lady, puffing her cheeks like a hamster as she pouted. Their words were playful and nonsensical, two idiots just madly in love with each other. No matter how one looks at it, there was only love drifting in the air.
"U-Umm... M-My Love! U-Umm...! You know... Umm..." ［Yuna］
"What is it, My Dear? Do you have anything to say?" ［Grey］
"Th-That's umm... My... My... Dear, umm... About yesterday... I... Umm..." ［Yuna］
Yuna tried to call Grey affectionately like he always does, but it was much harder than she thought. In the end, she only made herself red from embarrassment, shaking her head left and right as she tried to hide her face from Grey.
Unfortunately for Yuna, her actions only made her seem more adorable in Grey's eyes. She was like a flower which keeps on blooming more beautifully, her petals beet red as she danced in Grey's palms, fizzling from embarrassment soon after.
"Do you have anything more to say, My Dearest and Most Beloved?" ［Grey］
"Uuu... You meanie... I hate you..." ［Yuna］
"Hahaha. You're so cute, Yuna." ［Grey］
"... Dummy..." ［Yuna］
CHAPTER 500 END