Meeting Adjourned

The crystal that is currently present in the room is the one I took out from Etheric Colosal's floor inside the cybernetic dungeon. It's a crystal that was obtained by finally chipping away at the swarm of monsters with increased attack power.

From the day I arrived at the castle to the day I was made duke, I made many trips into cybernetic labyrinth before obtaining this crystal by finally chipping away at the swarm of monsters with increased attack power.

"I've been stealing them from the castle, and there are still plenty left. Feel free to use this crystal for spreading rumours, whether it's showing it off lightly, saying it might be possible to find more crystals, or even flaunting it as a symbol of wealth."

After all, I have other plans once I have enough man power.

"Just use it however you like."

It's merely material for spreading rumors. In terms of the game, the crystal itself is valuable, but relying solely on its buying and selling won't cut it.

Firstly, it's difficult to obtain. It's challenging to chip away at a crystal of a size with a decent market value.

If it's too large, it won't fit in the teleportation portal, and if it's too small, it won't be marketable.

Therefore, it takes a long time to finally gather crystals of just the right size.

Furthermore, cashing it in is also difficult. Unlike in games where you can easily sell them, it's not that simple. There's virtually no demand for crystals except among wealthy nobles.

Considering going through jewellers or decorative workshops isn't ideal either. If the quantity circulating in the market increases, the price will decrease.

Therefore, even if I diligently gather and trade them alone, I won't be able to make the desired amount of money.

And above all, supporting the Martell family's business requires trust. They might be happy with the money, but they won't let someone without any achievements interfere with their business.

Therefore, relying on crystals alone is out of the question.

Well, that's why I'll just stick to using them as material for spreading rumors.

"Certainly, having this would increase credibility, but..."

Pond still seems hesitant. It's only natural.After all his credibility will still be damaged after they discover we only have one of these crystals.

Though, he wouldn't know that, I doubt he belives on my bulff of possesing more crystals like this.

"Pond, please think about it."

"About what?"

"Isn't it great to earn money by spreading rumors and gathering people with lies?"

"Bad..."

"Isn't it cool to do something bad to restore the town's former glory and make people happy?"

I don't personally think it's cool, but I felt like he'd agree if I said that.

"Cool..."

As expected, Pond's face lit up.

"W-Well, I guess I have no choice. I'll take on that role."

But Pond continues.

"What will you do after gathering them? If there's nothing, it'll all be for nothing, right?"

"Correct. That's why we'll show them the redevelopment and aim for investment, employment, and residency."

"I've been curious for a while, but what exactly is this redevelopment?"

They don't know about redevelopment?

Haa...even ig they are highly developed civilization, I guess they are dumb because these creations weren't created by them.

"We plan to build tourist facilities centered around a public gambling establishment. This town is surrounded by high walls, has good public order, and convenient transportation with its highways. Moreover, it's in a peaceful federation, so I believe there's a high demand for entertainment."

... I'm explaining, but oh boy, everyone's faces are grim.

"I'm afraid that if it becomes a gambling establishment, the backlash from the townspeople is a concern."

Says the mayor.

HA, here comes the headache! Can't we have a Los Angeles here man?

"Tourism, huh? Facility investment, operating expenses... Even if we can expect revenue from the gambling establishment, it'll be tough if we can't attract people. In tourism, reputation matters most, but Milenia isn't exactly well-known," Pond remarked.

"I've been hearing about attracting people, gambling, tourism... I don't like the idea of the security team having to work harder," Chief Cheek chimed in.

I knew there would be complaints. But since I couldn't think of a better way, it couldn't be helped.

"You have a point about reputation. And as for the residents' dissatisfaction, Cheek, I'd like to ask you."

"Ugh, I don't want to deal with something bothersome like that."

"I'm not asking for anything difficult. Just chat in pubs and bars around the city to find out what people are unhappy about."

Even though he holds the position of Chief of Security despite being someone who was late because he was out having fun, according to the records, there haven't been any complaints.

That's probably because Cheek is well-liked. So I think he's well-suited for this role.

"Hey, Duke. Is it okay if I just do this?"

"Yes. Regarding the concerns about security, I plan to have General Lorenzo assist, so you just need to listen to the voices of the townspeople and report to the mayor and me. We'll take action before the discontent grows."

"Hehe, you are the best I've ever known."

Just wait until General Lorenzo gains the trust of the folks, I will show you truly who I am.

Although General Lorenzo and the mayor looked surprised when I casually mentioned them, let's ignore that.

"However, as Chief of Security, you'll still need to carry out your regular duties."

Although he made a face like 'ugh,' he didn't complain, so let's move on to the next point.

"So, with the increase in people, funding from the gambling establishment, tourism, contributions from merchants, etc., we'll need to handle registry, legal systems, tax collection..."

"Leave it to me! Your Grace! If I can get rewarded by you, I'll do anything!" eagerly exclaimed the shotacon.

"Thank you, Karen. I'm counting on you."

"Heehee~"

Looking around at the faces of the Karen, who seemed eager, I addressed everyone.

"That's all for our future plans. Does anyone have any opinions or suggestions?"

No one had any opinions to offer. I guess that wraps up today's meeting.

"Well then, that's it for now. We'll work out the details another day."

With that, the meeting adjourned.