THE MAN WITH A DOZEN THOUGHTS

Sir Eldric led Diaval towards the House Master's study on the tenth floor, guiding him through the vast, opulent mansion. Diaval, now more aware of his surroundings than ever, took note of each floor they passed, each more impressive than the last.

First Floor: The ground floor was a grand entrance hall adorned with intricate mosaics and towering columns. This level also housed the main dining room, several reception rooms, and the grand ballroom where lavish parties and gatherings were held.

Second Floor: This was the residential area where Diaval's room was located. The floor had several suites reserved for the family members, each suite a small apartment in itself. Diaval's suite was lavishly furnished with antique furniture, heavy drapes, and an opulent four-poster bed. The other rooms were similarly furnished, each reflecting the status of its occupant.

Third Floor: This floor was designated for guests, with numerous guest rooms that provided the utmost comfort and luxury. Each room had its own en-suite bathroom, sitting area, and a balcony overlooking the sprawling gardens.

Fourth Floor: The fourth floor housed the kitchens and dining areas for the staff. There were also storerooms filled with provisions and other necessities for the daily functioning of the mansion.

Fifth Floor: This level contained the servants' quarters. Though simpler than the family's suites, these rooms were still well-appointed, providing comfortable living spaces for the staff.

Sixth Floor: The sixth floor was dedicated to leisure activities. There was a grand library with walls lined with bookshelves, a music room with various instruments, and a game room with billiards and other games.

Seventh Floor: This floor housed the armory and training rooms. Here, weapons of all kinds were stored, and the family members could train with various martial arts and combat techniques.

Eighth Floor: The eighth floor was reserved for the family's personal studies and workspaces. Each family member had their own study, filled with books, scrolls, and personal artifacts.

Ninth Floor: This floor contained the magical laboratories and alchemical rooms. Here, experiments were conducted, potions brewed, and magical artifacts created.

Tenth Floor: The tenth floor was the domain of the House Master, Valtor. The study here was a vast room filled with bookshelves that reached the ceiling, laden with ancient tomes and scrolls. There was a large desk in the center, made of dark wood and intricately carved, and several comfortable chairs arranged around it. Expensive rugs covered the floor, and the walls were adorned with portraits of past family members and scenes of great battles and achievements.

Eleventh Floor: The top floor was a secluded retreat, a place for meditation and quiet reflection. It offered a panoramic view of the surrounding lands and the distant mountains.

Despite the lack of an elevator, the house was enchanted.

The stairs moved on their own, two on each side of the entrances to a floor, smoothly carrying anyone to their desired level.

As Diaval and Eldric ascended, Diaval couldn't help but marvel at the seamless movement and the thought that had gone into the mansion's construction.

Reaching the study on the tenth floor, Diaval was struck by its grandeur.

The room was a treasure trove of knowledge and history, with books and scrolls neatly organized yet exuding an aura of ancient wisdom.

Everything looked expensive, from the furniture to the smallest artifacts displayed on the shelves.

Eldric motioned for Diaval to take a seat at the grand desk as he began discussing the business plans.

"Young Master, let's discuss the allocation of the 10,000 gold coins. The expenses must be carefully calculated."

Diaval nodded, pulling out a notebook where he had jotted down his ideas and calculations.

"Uhh...okay."

"We need to consider the cost of land, construction, resources, and initial capital for the business. I want to make sure everything is covered."

Eldric nodded, his eyes scanning the notes with practiced ease.

"Land will be our first major expense. Good locations near the main markets or within bustling trade areas will be costly but essential for the business's success."

Diaval agreed. "How much do you estimate for prime land?"

Eldric pondered for a moment. "A suitable plot could cost us around 2,500 gold coins. This will ensure visibility and accessibility."

'That's a freaking huge some, but then again I promised mom will only get the best,'Diaval thought.

"That sounds reasonable," Diaval said, jotting down the figure.

"Next, construction. We need a building that stands out but is also functional and spacious."

"Indeed," Eldric replied. "Construction, including architectural fees and materials, will likely set us back another 3,000 gold coins.

We must also account for any enchantments or magical protections, which are crucial for security."

Diaval scribbled down the numbers, calculating as he went.

"Resources and initial inventory will be another significant cost. Depending on the type of business, this could vary greatly."

"For a high-quality business, I'd estimate around 2,000 gold coins for initial resources and stock," Eldric suggested.

"This includes any special equipment or supplies that might be needed."

Diaval nodded, adding the amount to his growing list.

"We also need to consider the salaries for staff and any initial marketing or promotional costs."

"Of course," Eldric said, tapping his chin thoughtfully.

"Staff salaries for the first few months, along with promotional costs, should be about 1,500 gold coins."

As they continued to discuss, Diaval occasionally found his mind wandering.

He couldn't help but marvel at Eldric's ability to keep so many details in his head, forming a dozen thoughts with each passing minute.

Eldric had been around since the formation and rise of House Astarot and had witnessed its growth and challenges.

Knowing that Eldric was likely over a thousand years old added to Diaval's respect for the man.

"With all these costs considered, we are looking at around 9,000 gold coins," Diaval concluded, feeling a sense of accomplishment.

"This leaves us with a little leeway for unexpected expenses."

Eldric smiled, a rare but reassuring expression.

"You've done well, Young Master. With careful planning and execution, this business will undoubtedly succeed."

Diaval felt a surge of determination. "Thank you, Eldric. I appreciate your guidance. Let's make this happen."

As they finalized their plans, Diaval felt a newfound sense of purpose. He was ready to build something meaningful, something that would bring joy and pride to his mother.

With Eldric's help, he knew he could navigate the challenges ahead and create a legacy that would stand the test of time.

"But if I may ask, what type of business is this that needs so much?" Eldric inquired, breaking Diaval's early celebration.

"Uhhh... it's basically just a simple—"

Before Diaval could finish, Eldric cut him off. "Don't lie to me," he said, his voice firm yet not unkind. "I've seen a lot in my years, and I can tell you're lying. A 'simple' business wouldn't cost more than 2000 gold."

Diaval's heart raced. Eldric's penetrating gaze seemed to strip away any pretense. He felt cornered, knowing he couldn't outwit someone with centuries of experience. Taking a deep breath, he decided to come clean.

"It's for a bakery," Diaval confessed. "A bakery for my mother. But it has to be a surprise."

Eldric's expression softened slightly. "Ah, I see. You care deeply for your mother, and that's commendable."

Diaval nodded, feeling a mix of relief and anxiety. "Yes, I do. She deserves something special, something that will make her happy and proud."

Eldric leaned back, a thoughtful look on his face. "I understand. Given the scale and your intention to make it grand, the expenses make more sense.

The door to the study creaked open, and in walked Mira, carrying a tray with a steaming pot of tea and a delicate porcelain cup. Diaval looked up in surprise.

"Young Master, I was looking for you to give you your afternoon tea," Mira said, her eyes catching Eldric's for a brief moment.

Eldric's expression softened as he looked at her. "Good afternoon, Father," Mira said quietly, her gaze lowering respectfully.

Diaval, in the midst of taking a sip of tea, choked and spat it out, his eyes widening in shock.

"Father?" he sputtered, glancing between Mira and Eldric, the pieces of a new puzzle falling into place.