Baron Hatton's population was growing.
From Baron Hatton's words about selling grain, Ryan knew that after last year ended, the man must have taken in quite a few slaves within his territory.
His grain supply was already failing to meet demand, leaving him with no choice but to buy more.
But this problem was even more pressing for Ryan.
"The Empire's merchant guilds first arrive at Northwind City, then distribute their goods from Northwind City to the various counties. But Silver Stream County might be able to retain a batch in advance. Viscount Hogg's wealth is probably comparable to that of an Earl."
Hatton said enviously, then followed Ryan into the Imperial Merchant Guild.
The price of grain in Northwind City was lower than in Zero Crossing City, but transportation also cost money. It would ultimately be somewhat cheaper, though hardly enough to solve the problem.
The instant he entered the Imperial Merchant Guild, Ryan caught a distinctive scent.
"Wine?"
Logically, Northwind Province should have had a great need for wine, since it was so cold here. But brewing wine required grain, and Northwind Province lacked grain, making wine a luxury here.
When Ryan had previously met Viscount Miles in Zero Crossing City, that Viscount had not even brought out any wine.
Even when faced with the maid's recommendation, Ryan suppressed the urge in his heart.
"I only want grain."
"May I ask how much grain the Baron requires?"
The manager came before Ryan and asked with a smile.
Ryan looked at the woman who called herself Ossie, then tossed a Gold Coin into the abyss of her neckline.
"At least ten thousand Gold Coins' worth of grain. How about it?"
Ossie's breathing immediately became hurried, and the smile on her face instantly turned fawning.
Though at the noble conference