Theus regarded the young man before him with interest.
He had heard Ken tell Josh's story: alone, carrying goods across the Storm Ocean to sell in the Empire.
He greatly admired such courage and determination.
It was just that Josh's asking price was far too low.
Soap was an excellent thing. Theus sold it very cheaply on the island; even if he sold it for ten Leo a bar in Castel, it would still be snapped up.
Within the Empire, compared to No. 9 Holy Water, soap could practically be sold at luxury-item prices. A few hundred Leo would probably not be a problem.
"My Lord Count, I-I'd like to buy a batch of soap from you on credit. Once I sell it, I'll... I'll pay you then.
"Of course, I'll pay you a higher price!"
Josh could barely speak. He felt as though his tongue no longer belonged to him. He had rehearsed his speech countless times, yet now, he had suddenly forgotten it all.
Still, he had said it. Though he stammered and rambled incoherently, he had indeed said it.
Theus smiled faintly. "A very good idea. You're courageous, but not reckless. You tried selling it once first, and only came to me after confirming there wouldn't be any problems. That's all very good."
Josh's face flushed. The count had actually praised him?
But Theus's next words made the boy feel as if he had fallen into an ice cellar.
"How do you plan to deal with pirates?"
"Pirates?"
"Yes, pirates. You didn't think those pirates letting you go last time was just good luck, did you? That ship belonged to the Candlelight Society."
"The Candlelight Society? Do ships have to belong to the Church to avoid fearing pirates...?"
"Then you think too highly of the Candlelight Society.