Konbini Ossan Volume 4 Chapter 16 — Cooperation with the Heroes
As requested, I explained my current plans.
First, I told them I was preparing to build a factory. That I intended to focus on it and generate significant profit.
And that earlier today, I had been granted the title of Honorary Baron. None of it was information that would cause any problems if made public.
What I didn’t explain was what I intended to do after establishing the factory and becoming an honorary noble.
With each point I shared, the others looked increasingly surprised.
Once I finished, Matsuriya immediately spoke up.
“I see. I understand the situation now. It seems we were right to align ourselves with you, Otsugi-san.”
As he said this, he pressed a hand to his temple, deep in thought. I waited quietly until he continued.
“It’s best if we establish a cooperative relationship with you, Otsugi-san. However, as merchants or factory owners go, we have little we can offer in return.
…
To form a working relationship that doesn’t appear suspicious, our options are limited.”
“Limited? Do we even have any?”
Toudou grumbled, but Matsuriya nodded without hesitation.
“The most straightforward way would be to provide military support. We’re fortunate— we’re heroes, after all.
…
We have cheat skills and superior stats. That kind of strength is extremely valuable in this world.”
“Do you really think anyone would just let us go lending our power around as we please?”
That question came from Ayumi Suzuhara, the former school nurse.
“True, under normal circumstances, it would be difficult. But in Otsugi-san’s case, things are a little different.”
Matsuriya began to explain his reasoning.
“Otsugi-san’s factory will be built outside the capital— in other words, beyond the protection of the city walls.
…
That means the facility will need its own defense force against wild monsters.”
Exactly right. Maintaining the factory would indeed require some sort of protection against roaming monsters.
I had actually planned to manage it using my evolved skill «Wide-Area Old-Man Scent», derived from «Old-Man Scent».
With it, I could create a protective boundary — almost like an outer wall surrounding the capital.
“And the factory will produce weapons and armaments that could influence future wars, correct? In that case, the nation would have every reason to ensure the factory’s survival.
…
Rather than assigning knights to defend it, it would be far more efficient to use us— heroes held in reserve as auxiliary forces.”
“I see. So the nation’s needs, its current situation, and available manpower all align neatly.”
Suzuhara nodded, satisfied.
I agreed with most of what Matsuriya said. There were likely many in the royal court who would see things the same way.
Of course, there would also be those opposed to it. Whether it became reality would depend on how much persuasion and lobbying Matsuriya and I could manage.
“What do you think, Otsugi-san, about this plan?”
“I agree with it in general. But we’ll need to either suppress the opposition ahead of time or secure more supporters first.”
“Exactly. I already have something in mind for that. Would you be willing to join me afterward?”
“If that’s the case, of course.”
Matsuriya looked relieved at my answer.
“Good. Then it’s settled. Among the heroes, our Kanehama group will take charge of defending Otsugi-san’s factory.
…
We’ll use that external connection to strengthen our position within the palace. If anyone has questions or objections, speak up now.”
He looked around the group, but no one raised a hand. It seemed the Kanehama group’s direction was decided.
“Well then, that’s all for today! Once our next moves are set, we’ll meet again to go over the details.”
With that, Matsuriya brought the meeting to a close. The heroes rose from their seats or began chatting in small groups.
Amid the bustle, Matsuriya tapped my shoulder and spoke quietly.
“Otsugi-san, you’ll come with me now, right?”
“Yes. Where to, exactly?”
“To the one who taught me magic— well, my teacher in more ways than one.”
As he said that, Matsuriya-kun flashed a sly smile.
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E/N:
We all know who this former-boy's master is, right? 😂
Anyway, apology for the delays, was a bit busy irl! Here's three chapters, enjoy you freaks! 😂 (1/3 chapter)
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