Silver-grade Merchant
Plum’s dress design was finally coming together.
We decided on an empire-line dress adorned with many decorative fabrics, aiming for a luxurious finish.
Plum herself, being a ducal princess, naturally exuded elegance.
Even with a flamboyant outfit, it would come across as refined rather than gaudy.
As I was in the midst of magic sewing with the actual fabric—what I call the "real sewing"—I received a summons from Alizée at the Trade Guild.
Apparently, Priscilla had called for me.
Since I had just wrapped up my work, I decided to head over immediately.
"Welcome, Lady Lily."
"Hello, Alizée. What is this about today?"
"You’ll hear the details directly from Lady Priscilla. Shall we?"
Hmm, Alizée usually tells me the purpose of these meetings beforehand.
I wonder what’s going on today?
Alizée led me to one of the reception rooms, where we waited for Priscilla.
I’ve gotten quite used to this room.
It wasn’t long before Priscilla arrived.
"Welcome, Lily. How are things at your shop?"
"It’s been a while, Priscilla. Spider’s Silken Cloud is doing well. With spring here, more customers are looking for bright-colored clothes. The Spiderling’s Nest is also bustling with customers and seems to sell out every day. The Magic Butterfly is just getting started, though."
"That’s good to hear. What I’ve called you here for is related to that."
"What do you mean?"
"Well, I want to make you a Silver-grade merchant."
A Silver-grade merchant!?
I only became a Bronze-grade merchant last autumn!
I was quite surprised and asked for the reason.
It seems that one of the reasons is the opening of The Magic Butterfly.
"Becoming a Silver-grade merchant means that even nobles can't easily make unreasonable demands. In practice, it gives you a voice as strong as that of a count or a higher viscount."
"Wow... Is that really necessary?"
"Yes, it is. When dealing with nobles, payments are made by the household, not on the spot. Some unscrupulous families might complain later to get a discount or even refuse to pay. If it becomes known that a noble family tried such tricks on a Silver-grade merchant, it would ruin their reputation, and no merchant would do business with them. That’s one reason."
"That's one reason. Are there others?"
"You're also taking orders from Princess Rodelnight, aren't you?"
"Yes. I have a dress order from her. There’s been a bit of a delay due to the current state of affairs in the country, though."
"… A Bronze-grade merchant cannot accept orders from royalty."
"What?"
"It seems Princess Rodenlight wasn’t particularly concerned, but there’s a rule that merchants delivering to the Royal family must be Silver-grade or higher. To avoid creating exceptions, we need you to become one."
Wow, that’s quite a big deal.
I received the order from Princess Rodenlight herself, but I never thought I wasn't actually qualified.
Anyway, it looks like I need to become a Silver-grade merchant.
"Understood. I’ll become a Silver-grade merchant, then. What do I need to do?"
"To advance to the Silver rank, you need to pay a fee of 10 million Rubies, but for you, that shouldn’t be a problem."
"… Your sense of money is quite off, isn’t it?"
"The more income streams, the better. Also, be aware that taxes are higher for the Silver grade and above."
"I understand, and I accept."
"… Oh, you’re taking it quite calmly? Most people would put up a fight."
"Paying taxes is a merchant’s duty. If it means increased profits and gaining more trust, I think it’s only natural."
"You have a sharp mind in unexpected areas. But you’re usually a bit absent-minded."
Calling me absent-minded is mean.
Anyway, it’s decided that I will become a Silver-grade merchant.
All the necessary procedures were completed, and my ID was updated.
It seems that becoming a Gold-grade merchant or higher is not possible solely at the discretion of the Trade Guild, but I’m fine with not advancing any further.
What do you think about this chapter?
