[26] Strange business partner

Before I look for business partners, it would be wise to investigate and evaluate the major trading companies with a good reputation for potential collaboration or, at the very least, consider purchasing the name of a merchant company that is nearly bankrupt. Thanks to Ciel's analysis, as I walked around the market or settled in a bar, I overheard a lot of information being discussed. One thing that caught my attention was a trading company run by one of the Asura nobles, Greyrat.

While offering my products to them would be beneficial, Ciel mentioned that most trading companies in the Asura Kingdom are generally two-faced. I chuckled at this observation. It seemed that Ciel's wisdom had overlooked one thing: every intelligent and rational being in this world has two sides. Essentially, humans themselves are two-faced. It's natural to expect that people might become greedy when they see abundant profits before them.

However, there's nothing wrong with trying to collaborate with one of the trading companies here. Speaking of Greyrat, I heard from patrons at the bar that Philip Boreas Greyrat was currently in the capital. He was the mayor of Roa, in the Fittoa region, known for its perfume products.

Philip Boreas Greyrat was here to manage his business affairs, so this was a golden opportunity for me. Let's play our cards wisely.

I began walking towards the market with a determined stride. The busy morning streets with vendors and buyers created a lively atmosphere. The colourful tents and the merchants' calls made the market look like a living painting. I observed the various goods for sale, from spices to silk fabrics, trying to gauge current trends and identify potential business opportunities.

With my neat and elegant appearance, I knew I had to make a strong first impression. Upon arriving at the market, I headed straight for a small coffee shop bustling with vendors and customers. This place was a hub of information, where the latest news and business gossip circulated.

I sat at a table and ordered a cup of coffee. While waiting, I opened a small notebook and began jotting down information I overheard from nearby conversations. I heard that the Greyrat trading company was looking for new business partners to expand their product range. This was an opportunity I couldn't miss.

An hour later, after gathering enough information, I left the coffee shop and headed towards the Greyrat trading company office. The building was grand and majestic, with beautifully carved wooden doors that exuded luxury and grandeur. Two guards stood in front of the door, watching everyone who entered and exited, indicating the importance of the place.

With confidence, I approached them. "Good morning. I'm Ash Constantine, a merchant seeking to meet with Philip Boreas Greyrat to discuss potential business cooperation."

Before they allowed me inside, the guards scrutinised me from head to toe. They seemed impressed by my neat and elegant appearance, with a hint of surprise in their eyes.

"Nice attire, sir," they complimented sincerely.

I chuckled, pleased by the compliment. "Hahaha... You flatter me," I replied with a smile.

The guards regarded me for a moment before nodding. "Please go in, Mr. Constantine. We'll inform Mr. Greyrat that you've arrived."

I stepped into the building, feeling the aura of power and opulence that surrounded the place.

As I walked towards the waiting area, I noticed the small details that added to the sense of luxury. Silk curtains with intricate patterns adorned the large windows, offering a beautiful view of the garden outside. Ornately carved wooden tables with fresh flower vases were placed around, adding to the elegant and comfortable atmosphere.

I took a seat in a plush chair upholstered in deep red velvet, waiting patiently while contemplating the next steps. Shortly after, a servant arrived with a cup of warm tea and a small plate of pastries.

"Please, Mr. Constantine. Kindly wait a moment, Mr. Greyrat will see you shortly," the servant said politely.

I nodded and smiled, accepting the tea and pastries. "Thank you," I replied courteously.

A few minutes later, the large door at the end of the room opened, and a slender man with tea-coloured hair entered. His appearance was graceful and authoritative, dressed in noble attire inspired by the medieval era. His cloak was adorned with gold and silver embroidery, and his leather shoes were spotless. His eyes conveyed intelligence, decisiveness, and a high level of vigilance.

Seeing him enter, I stood to greet him respectfully, using ancient Chinese noble etiquette. I bowed with my hands joined in front of my chest, giving a salute that was unusual in this region. The man looked surprised for a moment, his eyebrows lifting before he regained his composure and offered a faint smile.

"Good morning, Mr. Constantine," he said in a deep yet friendly voice. "I'm Philip Boreas Greyrat. How can I assist you today?"

I nodded respectfully. "Good morning, Mr. Greyrat. I am here to discuss a mutually beneficial business collaboration. I'm confident we can reach an agreement that will benefit both parties."

Philip's smile widened, his eyes shining with interest. "Please, have a seat, Mr. Constantine. I'm eager to hear your ideas."

We sat in comfortable chairs, and I began presenting my plan carefully and confidently. I explained the unique products I offered, their competitive advantages, and how this collaboration could enhance profits for both parties. The room was filled with an aura of optimism and enthusiasm, indicating the great potential of the proposed partnership.

Philip listened attentively, nodding in agreement from time to time. His slightly narrowed eyes showed his interest in what I was offering. After I finished my presentation, he took a moment to process before speaking.

"To be honest, I'm impressed with what Mr. Constantine has proposed. However, I prefer not to rush into a decision. Before we reach an agreement, could you tell me more about your background? Depending on your response, I might consider offering a 40:60 profit-sharing ratio," Philip said with a friendly smile and a curious gaze.

I tapped my chin, thinking for a moment before responding. "That's an interesting offer, but isn't it a bit low for me?" I said diplomatically.

One of Philip's eyebrows raised, showing a hint of surprise at my reluctance about the profit-sharing ratio. "Could you explain further?"

With a calm and confident demeanor, I continued, "Mr. Philip, I understand that from raw materials to finished products, it's all the result of my efforts. Therefore, it seems unfair to have a 40:60 profit split when you are only responsible for distributing my products."

Philip looked at me attentively, as if processing every word I said. "I understand your concern. Indeed, you play a crucial role in the entire process. However, we also invest in marketing, distribution, and infrastructure that allow your products to reach a broader market."

I nodded, acknowledging his perspective. "That's true, and I appreciate your efforts and investment in that regard. However, I believe that our contribution in terms of product development and the risks we take should be reflected in a more balanced profit-sharing ratio."