Chapter 59
I took a seat across from Babo-san, the lord of Merka Island.
"So, what brings you here today?"
Babo-san got straight to the point. I appreciated his directness.
"I have come to ask a favor. Are you aware that the Kingdom of Lionel is preparing to open a new port?"
"Yes, I have heard about it. Apparently, Romelia-sama is leading the project."
As Babo-san nodded, he cast a glance at Captain Maurice, standing to his right.
"The port is short of workers. Would you be willing to lend us your assistance?"
"You mean you wish to recruit migrant workers to handle cargo and the like?"
"That is part of it. We also need people to work at inns, restaurants, and taverns. But that is not all. We are currently establishing a Port Authority to manage the port."
I got to the heart of the matter.
To run a port, we needed a Port Authority to oversee its operations. But the Port Authority would require a high degree of expertise.
First, its staff would need the knowledge and skills to store unloaded cargo properly, as well as familiarity with foreign customs and industry practices. They would also need to know how to handle sailors suffering from disease and the ships they arrived on, while preventing crimes such as illegal entry and smuggling.
Running a port was no simple task. Yet the Kingdom of Lionel had never possessed a major port. We had virtually no knowledge or experience in operating one properly. First, we needed to learn from people well versed in maritime trade.
"We are looking for someone we can entrust with the position of deputy director of the newly established Port Authority. If you know anyone suitable, would you tell us about them?"
When I made my request, Babo-san blinked.
"You mean... you are offering us the position of deputy director?"
In response to Babo-san's question, I merely smiled.
I could hardly give him my word at our first meeting. However, if it meant securing Merka Island's cooperation, I was prepared to offer them the position of deputy director.
Babo-san swallowed hard at my smile.
The position of deputy director of the Port Authority was no trivial matter. The director would likely be a noble of the Kingdom of Lionel. However, that person would merely serve as a bridge between the royal family and the port, without involving themselves in day-to-day operations. In practice, the deputy director would be the one running the port. As the port's public face, the deputy director would be granted considerable authority. Naturally, the benefits would be substantial as well. The deputy director could also influence hiring at the Port Authority, making it possible to prioritize the people of Merka Island.
"Well? Would you be willing to lend us your assistance?"
I pressed him again.
It should have been a good offer. Yet Babo-san did not answer immediately. He swallowed and let his gaze wander.
His unsettled gaze drifted toward Captain Maurice on his right. But Captain Maurice did not respond to the island lord's pleading look.
"...Well, this is all so sudden that I cannot give you an answer right away..."
Sweat ran down Babo-san's forehead as he looked away. From his expression, it was clear he was not particularly enthusiastic.
A small sigh escaped from beside the wall. It came from Captain Maurice.
"Radick-san, why don't you gather the men of the island and let them discuss it? If the islanders approve, perhaps you could consider it?"
"M-Mm, y-yes, that's right. Do that. Can I leave the rest to you?"
Babo-san looked at Captain Maurice with pleading eyes.
"Of course. Leave it to me."
Captain Maurice dipped his bearded chin, and Babo-san let out a sigh of relief. Then he turned back to me.
"I apologize, Romelia-sama. I have been feeling unwell since this morning."
Babo-san bowed his head. Indeed, he had looked pale for some time now.
"I'll leave the rest to Captain Maurice..."
"Oh, is that so? Then I apologize for imposing on you while you are unwell."
When I apologized, Babo-san hurriedly shook his head.
"No, no, I should be apologizing for failing to show you any hospitality."
Babo-san's complexion grew even paler.
"In that case, please excuse me."
After bowing, Babo-san left the room as though fleeing.
As we watched Babo-san leave the dining room, a loud snort echoed through the room.
Looking toward the source of the noise, I saw Al standing there with his lips pursed.
"What's with that guy? Wasn't that a bit rude? It's true we were wrong to barge in on him, but still."
"He must have been feeling unwell."
I admonished Al, who was glaring angrily.
"Captain Maurice, thank you for smoothing things over earlier."
I thanked Captain Maurice. Without his advice, our discussion would have ended with us accomplishing nothing.
"I did it all for the islanders. This concerns the island's future, so surely they have the right to voice their opinions."
Captain Maurice nodded quietly.
"But I can only help you gather them. Whether they hear you out and agree is up to the islanders."
I nodded at Captain Maurice's words.