Chapter 187 (2/2)
“I don’t think we have to be so urgent to finalize a deal, we can take our time discussing the details after I have shown you the machine,” Roland pushed his hands onto the table, “Furthermore, the steam engine isn’t the only product we have here that is worth buying. There are some other things you might also be interested in– for example, this.” He snapped his fingers, and on his command, a group of guards took some objects out of a wooden box and placed them on the table.
“These are the newest creations of Border Town. No matter which of them you choose, they are all of the best quality but still at a reasonable price. For example, this simple mug,” Roland pointed at a colorful cup on the table and said, “It is light, pleasing to the eye, and yet not as fragile as a crystal cup. The pattern above can also be customized. Furthermore it won’t get wet, so it is very easy to clean.
“It won’t get wet?” Margaret picked up a cup and took a carefully look at it.
“You can try it with some wine,” the Prince joked. “And after you’ve drunk from it, you can pretend to be drunk and throw it on the ground to break it apart.
“It works, gee, this really is very excellent… But, I’m afraid you won’t be able to guarantee that every cup will have such a quality, right?” The big bellied Hogg had already poured himself a cup full of wine and threw it back at this time, “Hey, it’s really still dry.”
Of course, it was still dry, it was essentially just an ordinary wooden cup merely coated with one of Soraya’s paintings. The pattern on top of it was of her own design. “It does not conflict with the usage of crystal cup, those are for more of a formal court banquet while my cups are more suited for the personal chambers of the daughters of wealthy houses.” Roland said, “As far as I know, they like bright colors, and can’t resist things with such a beautiful appearance.”
“I believe it is as you’ve said,” Margaret said while nodding in interest. “You seem to have a lot of experience in this field.”
“Keke,” the Prince coughed twice, “and now, please fix your eyes on this one. The thickness of the breastplate is entirely uniform, and the back and front are made out of wrought iron. I don’t think I even have to mention that it is lighter than a knight’s plate armor, and it is possible to put it on without assistance. After it is closed, there doesn’t exist even the smallest crack; it is perfectly suitable for the guards escorting caravans. But the most crucial point is that it is cheaper than plate armor… ”
…
After the presentation of all the goods, the merchants began whispering to one another. To allow them some privacy, Roland offered them some time for discussion and left the hall, going over to the flower garden at a side corridor to get some fresh air.
“Your Royal Highness, I was only away for a month, and you already have a lot of new things here.” Margaret had stood to come follow him.
“Don’t you want to exchange your opinions with them?”
“No, the moment I set my eyes on something it’s unnecessary for me to try and listen to other people’s thoughts. When there is good merchandise to be had, whether other people see its worth or not, it’s all the same to me.”
She smiled and shook her head, “Our caravan will be staying here for three to four days, so could you… Let me see Lightning again?”
“Although she does not recognize you, at least she didn’t express any sentiment of dislike towards you, so I think that there won’t be a problem.
“Thank you,” Margaret said gratefully.
“If you’re going to stay for so long, you might as well come see a play. Three days from now, Border Town will hold its first theatrical performance.”
“You were able to build a theater in one month?” Margaret exclaimed, shocked at the idea.
“Of course not, it will be an open-air performance right in the middle of town square. I think it will be different than what you are used to.”
“I will do so right away. Deference is no substitute for obedience, Your Highness,” Margaret placed her hand on her chest and performed a low bow.