Chapter 12

It's been a few days since I returned home from the duchy, and during that time, I've been working on a plan to start my own business. I need funding that's not connected to the county for future projects, so creating a business under my name is essential. However, I recognize the importance of careful consideration before introducing new technology into the world, and I've decided to be cautious in my approach. After careful thought, I've settled on a project that won't cause significant changes - the spinny jenny. It's a simple and practical invention that could be useful in textile production and won't have any significant impact on the future.

My father has already given me a monthly allowance of 100 gold coins which is an insane number. In comparison, the average middle-class family earns 600 silver coins a year which is around 60 gold coins yearly while peasants earn 120 copper coins yearly which is a measly 12 silver coins a year. Money isn't an issue but 100 gold coins won't be enough for my future plans.

I needed to buy a few skilled craftsman and a few buildings so I could start producing the spinny jenny and later begin textile production.

"Andrew" I called out

"Yes, my lord," Andrew replied, bowing respectfully.

"Please arrange a meeting with the craftsmen and blacksmith, and find at least three buildings for sale."

I needed at least 3 buildings one will be a store, one will be where the craftsman worked, and the third will be where the spinning jenny will be used. My plan was to make clothes for both the nobles and citizens will be able to buy.

"As you wish my lord" Andrew left to complete the assignment.

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It has been a few days since I ordered Andrew and thankfully he managed to complete everything I asked him for.

"So these 6 buildings are the ones in the best condition?" The price of these buildings wasn't bad as they ranged from 20-50 gold coins

"Yes my lord I made sure to stay within your 100 gold coin budget"

"Alright buy me these two for 20 each and buy the one near the middle for 40" I can't spend too many gold coins since I still need to hire

"As you wish; remember my lord you still have a meeting an hour from now in the guest building with the three craftsmen and the blacksmith"

"Yes I know I'll take care of those negotiations don't worry." They might think that they can get a good deal out of me but I was sure they would throw those thoughts out of the window once they sit face to face with me

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Sitting on a chair with Andrew by my side I looked at my esteemed guests. Thomas William and Geoffrey were the craftsmen and Henry was the blacksmith.

"We greet the Young lord," they responded in unison with a bow. I could sense their relief. After all, if you were in their position negotiating with a young lord who seemed wealthy and inexperienced, you would likely feel the same way.

"Thank you for coming. I've called you all here for a reason," I said, showing them the blueprint for my project. "I want all of you to build me this machine."

Their faces were filled with astonishment as they examined the blueprint.

"Building such a machine would take at least 3 to 4 weeks, Young lord. If I had to give you an estimate, it would cost you around 80 gold coins," said Thomas, the lead craftsman.

'What a ridiculous price' I knew that they were going to try to raise the price to a certain extent but this much is outrageous.

"I agree with his estimate," William and Geoffrey chimed in.

I turned to Henry, the blacksmith. "And how about your parts?"

"Based on the cost of the materials and labor, I would say roughly 8 gold coins for my part," Henry responded honestly.

"You know I knew coming into this meeting that you guys may feel a bit relieved to negotiate with a child," I said looking at the craftsmen with a small grin

I leaned forward in my chair and narrowed my eyes, fixing them on the three craftsmen. "But let me tell you something, I may be young, but I am not foolish. I know when I'm being ripped off, and you are trying to rip me off, aren't you?"

The craftsmen shifted uncomfortably in their seats and tried to deny my accusation, but I wasn't having any of it. "Don't lie to me. I can see it in your eyes. You think I'm just a child, an easy target. But let me make one thing clear: I am not to be fucked with."

I gestured to Andrew, who had been standing silently by my side. "Now now, I am willing to forgive and forget as we are future business partners."

The craftsmen paled as Andrew unsheathed his sword and moved toward them, and I could see fear creeping into their eyes. "Relax Gentlemen He wont do anything after all why would I want my knight to harm my business partners right?"

"Yes of course my lord" All of them nodded

"Now, let's try this again. How much will it really cost to build this machine, including your labor and materials?"

"It would be 32 gold coins my lord for every machine" Quickly William responded

"You see, that wasn't so hard, was it?" I said, my tone lightening. "I want us to have a good working relationship, and that means being honest and fair with each other. Can we agree on that?"

The craftsmen nodded, their fear subsiding. "Yes, Young lord. We will do our best to provide you with the best quality work at a fair price."

"Excellent. Now I'll pay you half now and the other half after you done." I looked them as they nodded in agreement perfect. "Now get to work"