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>>46329502
>5th of August, 1095.
>Four o’clock.

You close the door of the shop behind you, looking up at the sun. While sunset was still some hours away, going to the docks would take up at least another forty minutes. Resolved to get more information on the mysterious Bavarian, who may or may not be a smuggler, you set out on the long walk.

As you walk through your own street, a lot of your fellow storekeepers stop to greet you. Your name still held some power in this street. Most of these people could still remember your father, who always went that extra mile to ensure his customers were happy. Thanks to that, a lot of your customers are sons and daughters of your father’s customers.

Forty minutes later, you finally arrive at the docks. Rows after rows of ships, docked in the deep-water harbors of Venice. In the distance, you could see a few larger ships, unable to dock. The tavern stands on the middle of a large pier, flanked by a pair of trading posts. As you approach it, you can hear the drunks inside yelling and laughing.

You take a deep breath, before opening the door to the establishment. It smelled exactly as you remember; like cheap imported beer. As you walk past the busy tables, you notice some of the tavern wenches turning to look at you. They’d never seen you in such fancy clothes. Over in the corner, you spotted three captains bent over a map, no doubt plotting the best routes to sail. You reminded yourself to find some dependable captains. As you step up to the bar, you order yourself a mug of beer.

Once you finally get it, you take a deep swig from it. How you missed that bitter taste.

>Ask the bartender about a Bavarian.
>Take a seat at an empty table.
>Sit down with the captains.
>Flirt with one of the tavern girls.

>>46329502
We should attempt to find either a person of; higher standing, with good connections, rich as shit/got large tracts of... land, good as shit with business or adorable and all that romance shit.

To simplify; either she benefits our family hugely somehow or she is a qt3.14 with decent skills

>>46329515
>Sit down with the captains.

>>46329515
>Take a seat at an empty table.

>>46329630
Agreed. We had that Florentine qt talking to us, and we should probably try to find her at some point.

>>46329515
>>Sit down with the captains.

>>46329727
>Sit down with the captains.

Holding your mug, you decide to move on over to the captains. Older, gruff men. You could see that at least one of them was missing a few fingers. They all wore the same pair of boots; leather. Desiderius would probably be laughing his ass off if he saw them. You casually check your own boots, still not understanding why he mocked you about them. Probably some kind of superstition.

As you approach the table, the captains stop their discussing and look up at you. They look at eachother, before sitting down. You remained standing. “Planning a voyage, gentlemen?” The left captain, a man in his forties, nodded. The man on his right, obviously the youngest of the pair, spoke up. “Aye. We’re planning a voyage to Genoa.”

You slowly take a seat, leaning back in the chair. You had to have an air of confidence around these kind of men. “I see. Why Genoa?” Seafaring captains were an incredible source of information, gathering knowledge and picking up rumours in just about every port they docked in. The youngest one spoke up again. “We heard that they’re expanding. We decided that coin would be easier to find there.”

You take another swig from your mug of beer. You could use these captains, but you’d need a damn fine offer.

>I wish you the best, then.
>Perhaps I can make you a better offer.
>Is there room for a passenger?

>>46329832
>>Is there room for a passenger?

>>46329832
>I wish you the best, then.

Remember, we don't have a lot of cash, and we can't afford to leave Venice right now.

>>46329832
>>I wish you the best, then.

>>46330016
Slow day so far. I'm sure more people will pop in as it goes on, like always.
>I wish you the best, then.

You raise your mug. “May the waves be kind to your galleys, gentlemen.” They each give a single, stern nod. As you get up, they turn back to their maps. It wasn’t of much use, but at least you know that Genoa is expanding their business, or territory. That might come in handy when looking for new contacts.

You look around the tavern, noticing that a few more sailors have entered it during the short time you sat down with the captains.

>Take a seat at an empty table.
>Buy the sailors some drinks.
>Flirt with one of the tavern girls.

>>46330112
>Take a seat at an empty table and invite the sailors to sit with you.

>>46330112
>Take a seat at an empty table.
If we start buying rounds, we're probably going to be down a fair chunk of pocket change and up a hangover in the morning.

>>46330227
+1

>>46330112
>>Take a seat at an empty table.

>>46330112
>Flirt with one of the tavern girls.
Obviously.

>>46330317
>Take a seat at an empty table and invite the sailors to sit with you.

You quickly maneuver yourself to an empty table, setting down your mug. Raising your voice, you hold up your hand towards the sailors. “Gentlemen! Come and have a seat!” They looked at you, confused. When the first one walked over, the others quickly followed. Before you knew it, you had five sailors sitting at your table, their gazes locked on you.

You sat down and leant back in your chair. “On what ship did you fine men sail in?” They exchange glances, before one of them speaks up. “The Indomitable.” You hadn’t heard of the ship, but judging from the name, you assumed it was a warship. You stand up again, raising your voice. “Barkeep! A round of drinks for these weathered sailors!”

Moments later, one of the tavern girls brought over six mugs of cheap beer. That’d most likely cost you a pair of ducats, but information was priceless. They all raise their mugs in cheers, and begin to drink eagerly.

>What news from the mainland?
>What are you here for?

>>46330367
>What are you here for?
They'd be more happy to spill information if we seemed interested in them personally.

>>46330367
>What news from the mainland?

>>46330386
Seconded

>>46330505
>What are you here for?

You raise your mug as well, taking yet another swig from it. As you set it back down on the table, you begin the conversation to the best of your abilities. “So, what brings the men of the Indomitable to Venice?”

Another sailor chimes up this time. “We’ve came here to unload a shipment of weapons, but it seems no one is willing to buy it. “War is not profitable right now” they said.” You can’t help but see some irony in those words. You speak up again. “They’re insane if they think that. Where is your captain?”

The oldest sailor suddenly looks up. You half-expect him to be the quartermaster onboard the ship. He speaks in a deep, heavily accented voice. “He is still on the ship, wondering who he could try to sell them to next.”

You always knew that kindness and an alcoholic beverage would loosen their tongues.

>Inform your captain that I am willing to do business.
>I wish him good luck.
>A shame. Now, let’s drink!

>>46329502
>What kind of wife should we find?
The real life equivalent of the HDW

>>46330597
>>Inform your captain that I am willing to do business.

>>46330597
>>Information your captain that I am willing to do business.

>>46330617
>>46330688
Aye.

Reporting

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>>46330775
>Inform your captain that I am willing to do business.

You slap one of the sailors on the back. “Well then, gentlemen, I do believe you can tell your captain that you’ve found someone interested in buying some weapons.” You grin widely, continuing. “Because as of yesterday, I’ve got a trade permit for weapons and tools. What kind of weapons are we talking about?”

The man you presume to be the quartermaster speaks up again. “Only the captain knows.” Judging from his accent, he appeared to be French. However, a mystery shipment of weapons could prove to be quite troublesome to move. There was only one way you could find out, and that was by boarding that ship. Although, if you played your cards right, you could get the captain to come to the store.

“Well, you can tell your captain that I’m very interested now. However, if he wants to do business, he’ll have to come to the Particino storefront.” You lean back in your chair and finish your beer. The sailors exchange glances, before they all nod. “We can convince the captain to do that.” One of them suddenly leans in, speaking in a hushed tone. “Do you know of any good.. ‘private’ establishments in the city?”

You grin, leaning back again. You’ve heard where you can find the brothels, but you’ve never visited them yourself. As a pious man, you promised that you’d wait until marriage.

Or, you know. The right woman.

“Oh, I’ve heard of a good one. There’s an alley nearby, with a very simple black door. Knock on it three times, and you’ll be asked for a password. From what I gather, it’s ‘Theodora’, some old Empress.” And with that, the men rise from their seats and down the rest of their drinks. You shake hands with the oldest sailor, as he vows that he’ll see you tomorrow.

Glancing out of the window, you see that it’s about six o’clock.

>Go back to the store.
>Go home.

>>46330874
>>Go back to the store.
Make sure it's clean.

>>46330924

>>46330874
>>Go back to the store.

>>46330924
Seconded.

>>46331093
>Go back to the store

While Desiderius must’ve closed up by now, you think that it’d be smart to take a final look around. Maybe clean the place up a bit more. If this captain was truly interested in selling his weapons, you’d need a proper location to receive him.

After giving the tavern one last look, you rise from your seat and head for the door, starting your forty-minute journey to your storefront. The streets were still quite active at this hour, with children still playing on the streets. They were enjoying the dying days of summer, just like you used to do it when you were younger. Sometimes you miss those simpler times.

You weren’t paying attention as you turned the corner, causing you to bump into a smaller form, which fell over. You immediately look down, recognizing that crimson dress. “My apologies! I wasn’t paying attention.” You offered your hand to help the person up. A soft hand took it and used it to pull itself up. Standing before you was Lady Matilda of Florence, the lady you’d met at the Doge’s Palace the day before.

She huffed, patting some dirt from her dress. She was lucky that most of Venice was paved, with only some straw and dirt here and there. She looked up at you, a frown quite apparent on her face. “Ugh, filthy barba—“ She eyed you up and down once more. “If it isn’t Master Particino. My, my, you look different.” Her tone still implied she didn’t think much of you. “Did you get what you wanted from the Doge?”

>I did.
>I didn’t.
>And why would I tell you?

Rolled 50 (1d100)

Roll for the sake of roll

>>46331116
>>And why would I tell you?
Lovely though you are.

>>46331116
>I did.

"...but i would suggest watching what you say, had i really been a "filthy barbarian"" then you would either be being robbed, killed or raped currently."

This bitch is not waifu, disregard the bitchy rich woman.

>>46331116
>I got as much as I could have hoped for, I think.
Be vague, but not confrontational.

>>46331183
This. Also flirt.

>>46331210
No flirting, please. We probably don't think much of her either, and have better things to do with our time.

>>46331210
I support flirting.

Rolled 36 (1d100)

roll for the sake of finding a whore

Rolled 75 (1d1000)

roll for the sake of roll

>>46331183
This

>>46331183
>>46331210
>I got as much as I could have hoped for, I think

You smirk, folding your arms across your chest. “I suppose that I got as much as I could have hoped for. You were right in a way. His Serenity doesn’t listen to just anyone.” You looked over your shoulder, hoping no one heard that just now. Information was power in Venice, and knowing that someone met with the Doge for an unknown goal was quite special.

She let out an amused huff, looking you over once again. “Judging by your new clothes, I’d say that you were quite successful. But…” She put a finger on her lips, thinking. “Perhaps that was what you came to see the Doge for. A new pair of clothes?”

You couldn’t help but chuckle, shaking your head. “At least I’m not wearing the same as yesterday.” You motion at her dress. She doesn’t seem insulted in the slightest, easily parrying your jab. “Ah, but you see, this is a different dress. It just so happens that I like the colours.” Upon closer inspection, she was indeed correct. The trim and frills on her dress were a different colour than yesterday.

You raise an eyebrow, before taking on a lower tone. “And what is it that m’lady was doing in the Doge’s Palace?” She smirked, putting her hands on her hips. “Well, a lady can’t go around spilling secrets, can she? Where is Domenico headed, hm?” She changed the subject rather quick. Something was up.

>I’m headed to my store.
>I was just heading home.
>You can come along and see.

>>46331392
>I was just heading home.
Invite her with you. You know what to do.

>>46331392
>>I’m headed to my store.

>>46331392
>You can come along and see.
Seeing that we have a successful store will make her respect us, right?

>>46331392
>"I'm headed to take care of business. I'd invite you to come along and see, m'lady, but I'm sure you have far more important things to attend to than following along with someone like myself."
The deflections continue!

And we've got a tie. You people are divided as fuck.

>>46331605
It always happens but sure I'll change my vote to
>you can come along and see

>>46331392
>>I’m headed to my store.

>>46331392
>>You can come along and see.

And the tie is broken. Writing now.

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>>46331656
>You can come along and see

You extend your arm for her to take, just like you were taught when you were young. “If my lady wants to see, she can come along. Although I’m sure you have other business to attend to, that are more pressing and important than following along with someone like myself.”

Matilda quietly stood there for a few moments, before reluctantly taking your arm. “Whatever business I have can wait, for now. It will be amusing to see your destination.” She inspects your clothes again. “Wherever it is, I hope that you’re dressed for the occasion.” She had another amused look on her face, still somewhat belittling. The two of you go on your way to the store, your boots audibly sounding with each and every step.

The fair-haired woman looked down at your boots, before raising an eyebrow. “Impressive boots. They must have cost quite a lot.” And there was the condescending tone again. You quickly parry; “About as much as that dress must’ve cost.” She looked quite amused, apparently believing that you could afford her dress.

After a good twenty minutes of walking, mostly spent in silence, you arrive at your store. From what you could see, Desiderius still hadn’t closed up. His suspicions would most likely be confirmed, seeing you enter the store with a woman on your arm. You take a deep breath and open the door, Desiderius looking up from a book. He appeared somewhat stunned once he noticed Lady Matilda.

>Maybe there is, maybe there isn’t, right Desiderius?
>Quietly walk to the table
>Introduce the two of them.

>>46331807
>>Maybe there is, maybe there isn’t, right Desiderius?

>>46331807
>Quietly walk to the table

THEN

>Maybe there is, maybe there isn’t, right Desiderius?

>>46331895

I'm staying out of this one, except to say that I'd prefer to treat Matilda as a competitor instead of a waifu, at least until we've seen more development of her character.

>>46331807
>>Maybe there is, maybe there isn’t, right Desiderius?

>>46331895
>Quietly walk to the table
>Maybe there is, maybe there isn’t, right Desiderius?

You had trouble suppressing a massive grin as you walked through the store with Matilda. She hadn’t said a word yet, simply looking around. Once the two of you reached the table in the back of the store, she sat down, about as graceful as you’d expect from her. You couldn’t help but look back at Desiderius. “Maybe there is, maybe there isn’t, right Desiderius?” You showed him the cheekiest possible grin you could muster.

It was interrupted by Matilda laughing into her hand. “Have you been telling him about me, Master Particino?” You shake your head. Desiderius couldn’t help himself, quickly pulling up another chair. “Oh, he’s been talking all about you, my lady.” He glanced at you for a second, before turning to Matilda again. “It’s not easy to find such a wealthy investor.”

Your heart skipped a beat. Was he trying to... set you up with her? You hoped not. “Stop that nonsense, Desiderius. Lady Matilda was merely curious as to where I was headed.” You gestured around you nonchalantly. “This is it. My store.”

She suddenly got up and walked around, inspecting the stands and wares. Aside from bread and grain, you also sold vegetables and seeds. All in all a very unimpressive stock right now. “Very.. ordinary, Master Particino.” She turned around, looking Desiderius over with a scrutinizing gaze. She suddenly turned towards the door. “Well, I shan’t intrude any longer. Have a pleasant evening, gentlemen.” And with that, she was gone.

Desiderius turned to you, folding his arms across his chest and tilting his head expectantly. “So, who exactly is that woman?”

>It doesn’t matter, I’ve got good news.
>Someone I met at the Doge’s Palace.

I won't be introducing waifu mechanics for some time.

>>46332095
>Someone I met at the Doge’s Palace.
Joke's over. Disclosure now.

>>46332095
>>Someone I met at the Doge’s Palace.
But I've got good news. We need to make sure the store is spotless for tomorrow.

>>46332095
Damn right you won't

>Someone I met at the Doge’s Palace...

"...not important right now by comparison to what i am going to tell you; i found some French who are willing to offload a bunch of weapons to me! And on the cheap too!.. I hope."

>>46332095
>>Someone I met at the Doge’s Palace.

>>46332312
>Someone I met at the Doge’s Palace.

You grab the bottle of wine from the table, pouring some in the mug. The two of you usually had an after-work drink, which was usually an hour earlier. Today was quite eventful, and you figured that you owed Desiderius an explanation for the latest event. “She’s a woman I met at the Doge’s Palace. Approached me out of the blue, and criticized my clothes and hair in a single sentence.” You pause, taking a sip from the mug. “That, and the trade permit, is the reason why I spent some money today.”

You hand the bottle to Desiderius, who proceeds to pour some into a pewter cup. He rolls the wine around a bit, before taking a very slow sip. “So, there’s nothing going on between you two?” You shake your head. “I’m a bit wary of her. She claims to be from Florence, but she could just as well be working for another family. She’s not important right now.” You take another sip. “It pales in comparison to the next piece of information: I found a couple of sailors in the tavern. The man, who I assume is their quartermaster, spoke with a thick French accent. Their captain has been trying to find a buyer for a shipment of weaponry, but has been absolutely unable. No one wants them.”

You take a deep breath, before continuing. “We have to tidy up the shop, Desiderius. There’ll be an important visit tomorrow. If all goes well, we could offload fifty crates of grain for a shipment of weapons.” Your companion’s eyes were wide, his mouth open just a little. “You’re joking.”

“Not one bit. So I suggest we start cleaning now, it’ll save us some work tomorrow.” Desiderius nods and the two of you leave your wine and tidy up the store. About an hour later, the two of you are standing outside. “I expect you to be on time tomorrow, Desiderius.”

While you know he’d be on time, it never hurt to mention it. You lock up the store and the two of you say your goodbyes.

>>46332437
While Father Federico said he’d send Edward home, it might show Edward that you care if you personally picked him up. If you went home, however, you could try and cook a proper meal for the two of you.

>Go home
>Go to the church

>>46332455
Damn you for making these choices hard!

IF we have good ingredients, or can get some, then >go home
But if we can't then >Go to the church

>>46332455
>Go to the church

>>46332455
>>Go to the church

>>46332455
>Go to the church

>>46332455
>>Go to the church

>>46332740
>Go to the church

As much as you’d like a proper meal, you’d have to hang in for a little more, and perhaps settle for something less. You decide to pick up Edward personally, making sure that he’ll find the way home. Besides, it’d be good to hear how his first day was. You just hope that Father Federico won’t judge your expensive clothes. Vanity was a sin, according to him.

Twenty minutes after you set out from the store, you arrive at the church, just in time to see the doors open and Edward stepping out. It seems like Father Federico gave him some new clothes, which he was neatly holding, a book stacked on the clothes. You give the orphan a rub over his head, before walking up to the old preacher. “How was his first day?”

The priest gave a warm smile, leaning on his wooden stick a bit more. “Quite good. While teaching him how to read will take a while, I found out that he knows a decent amount of Italian already. The big problem is formulating those words into sentences.” That surprised. Did Edward understand what you were talking about all that time?

“Well, that’s good to hear, Father. I’ll send him back over tomorrow.” The man simply nodded, bid you farewell and headed back inside.

Fifteen minutes later, you and Edward were home. He immediately walked over to the barrel and grabbed a piece of salted fish. While not your original choice, it was still tasty with onions. As you prepared the food, you wondered if you could try and start a conversation.

>How was your day with the Father, Edward?
>Stay quiet.

>>46332779
>>How was your day with the Father, Edward?

>>46332779
>How was your day with the Father, Edward?
Though he might not understand us too well.

>>46332779
>How was your day with the Father, Edward?

>>46332966
>How was your day with the Father, Edward?

While you’re chopping the onions, you decide that it might be good practice for Edward to have someone to talk with. Or at least listen to, to get the proper sentence structure. “How was your day with Father Federico, Edward?” You’re met with silence, before you hear the boy’s voice chime up. “Fun it was.”

You look over your shoulder, eyes wide. “That’s good. Did you learn anything?” You focus on the onions again, breathing through your mouth to avoid crying. Damn onions. You slide the small cubes onto the fish, before slicing the fish in half. You put each half on a plate, before carrying it to the table. You notice that Edward is struggling with a sentence. Eventually, he gives up and speaks in the broken manner. “Reading learning I’m.” You got the gist of it.

The two of you eat your dinner in silence. The rest of the night passes by uneventful, and you quickly fall asleep.

Time for a quick 20 minute break to get some food. Feel free to discuss our following moves.

So anyone have a clue who Lady Matilda is or might be?

>>46333342
Hoping she's an eligible maiden, but she could be a spy too. Hoping for the first option due to her apparent wealth.

>>46333080
>6th of August, 1095

You woke up quite early today, woken up by an especially loud neighbor. You mutter a few curses under your breath, trying to drown out the fishmonger’s wife. As you opened the door into the living room, you spotted Edward sitting on his favorite chair, admiring the illustrations of one of his books. You still had some sliced onions lying around, so you simply decided to shove them onto some salted meat.

After yet another boring breakfast, you send Edward on his way to the church. It was only then you noticed that Edward was wearing his new clothes, which looked to be as expensive as yours. No leather boots, though!

You’ve got a long day ahead of you. The Indomitable’s captain will most likely drop by, and there’s a chance that Otto could return.

>Go to the store
>Go to the warehouse
>Go to the harbor
>Go to the bakers

>>46333453
>Go to the store
Make sure the shop is spick and span before we go around doing anything else.

>>46333453
>>Go to the store

>>46333453
>Go to the store

>>46333453
>store the warehouse

>>46333520
>Go to the store

Today was a big day for the store. With the potential of a new trade route opening to wherever the Indomitable came from, you’d need to be at your finest. Besides! You told Desiderius that he should be at work on time. It’s only right if you practice what you preach. Father Federico would be proud.

On your way to work, you pass by the legless beggar again. Flies have started circling him, but there is some life in him yet. The fact that he nearly expired in a day’s time is impressive, as macabre as that sounds. You try to shake the image from your memory, but that probably won’t work. A little ways down the road, you see a pair of women chatting. You recognize one of them for some reason. Perhaps she’s one of Desiderius’ conquests? Lord knows that he’s been with a fair amount of married women.

Moments later you arrive at your shop, where you notice that you’re the only one to open up this early. Was it like this every day, or was it because you regularly showed up at noon? You honestly couldn’t remember. You give the shop another thorough cleaning before Desiderius arrives, holding a pair of books.

“I’ve got the list you asked for, along with some books about the histories of each individual family. These weren’t easy to come by.”

You still have some time before the captain will show up.

>Save the list & books for later.
>Go through the list & books now.
>Discuss the day with Desiderius.

>>46333663
>>Go through the list & books now.

>>46333663
>Discuss the day with Desiderius.
The books can be read at any time. We can only plan for today's events before today's events.

>>46333663
>Discuss the day with Desiderius.

>>46333793
>Discuss the day with Desiderius

You move over to the table, grabbing the wedge of cheese from behind the counter on your way. You slice off a small piece, offering it to Desiderius. “We’ll look at them later. We’ve got a big day ahead of us.” He nodded, sitting down and taking the cheese. He looked a lot more presentable than yesterday, his hair neatly tied back into a ponytail, and he’d gotten rid of his beard.

“What’s the plan then, Domenico?” You tap your chin in thought, leaning back in your comfortable chair. “I suppose I’ll be doing the talking. If he’s bringing the quartermaster, you could convince him to buy supplies from us. Wherever they come from, it’ll be quite a journey.” He nods again, looking over towards the door.

“Nervous, Domenico?”

>A little
>Not at all
>You have no idea.

>>46333925
>A little
Opportunities don't often fall into your lap - but still, there will always be more in the future.

>>46333925
>>A little

>>46333925
>>A little

>>46333983
>A little

You nod, taking a bite from a small block of cheese. “A little. These kinds of opportunities don’t appear often. While it won’t be the last, I can’t help but feel like this will be our big break.” You fully meant it; you were uncertain of the future of the business. Sure, you’ve gotten yourself a new trade permit, but you still needed someone to trade with. Not to mention, you were going to need reliable captains.

Convincing the Indomitable’s captain to sail for you would be difficult, you imagine. And even if you managed to convince him, you still had three ships sitting in the docks. With no crew to man them, you’ve had to rely on others’ ships to bring in the shipments from the mainland. Ofcourse, they’d take a percentage of the profits as well. With your own ships, you’d cut out the middle man. More profit, and more power.

Moments later, you heard the door to your store open. A tall, black-haired man stepped into the store. Then, the French man you’d met at the tavern. Your gaze shifted over to the window, where you could see an additional two men waiting outside. The captain wore a long black surcoat, emblazoned with a strange coat of arms. While it could mean that he was nobility, it could also just be the ship’s coat of arms. You’d heard rumours that some wealthier captains had taken that up. Underneath the surcoat, you could see some chainmail. From his belt hung a black leather scabbard, filled with an expensive-looking sword.

His deep voice rang out, and there was a very distinct English accent.

“Domenico Particino?”

>Step forwards and extend a hand.
>Step forwards and incline your head.
>Casually greet him.

>>46334202
>>Step forwards and incline your head.

>>46334202
>Step forwards and incline your head.

>>46333925
>You have no idea.

"This could in theory set my family back onto the road of mansions, fame and fortune... or it is completely worthless... nope, optimistic, gotta be optimistic!"

>>46334202
>Step forwards and incline your head

I've got a bad feeling about this.

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>>46334298
>Step forwards and incline your head.

You took a few steps forward, making sure that you remained at an appropriate distance. You inclined your head as a sign of utmost respect, speaking as your head remained lowered. “Domenico Particino, the owner of this establishment.”

The captain made a very small gesture with his left hand, motioning for you to look up. “My quartermaster has told me that you’re looking to buy our shipment of weapons.” You look up at the man, noticing that his facial hair is quite impressive; a thick mustache with a strip of hair going from his lower lip to the end of his chin.

It was hard to gauge the captain, so you decided to put on your most professional and confident voice, “I am, my lord.” The captain looked back at his quartermaster, before roaring in laughter. “My lord? You need not address me like that, Master Particino. The name is Sir William of Essex.” He spoke in a very thick English accent. You wouldn’t deny that it had its charms.

“It is a pleasure to meet you, Sir William.” You were quickly interrupted again, as the knight shook his head. “Just call me William. Come, let us do business.” You nodded in agreement and motioned towards the table. The two of you sat down, while Desiderius went off to try and sell the quartermaster some supplies.

The knight wasted no time. “So, what is it you can offer me for my shipment?”

>Fifty boxes of grain, fresh from Tuscany.
>Employment under my family, and a position in my fleet.
>A favour.

>>46334465
>>Fifty boxes of grain, fresh from Tuscany.

>>46334465
>Fifty boxes of grain, fresh from Tuscany
Everyone needs food.

>>46334465
Fifty boxes and employment if these weapons are of good quality and you can obtain more

>>46334465

>Fifty boxes of grain, fresh from Tuscany.
"After I've inspected the weapons personally, of course."

>>46334634
>Fifty boxes of grain, fresh from Tuscany

You rub your trimmed beard in thought, before speaking. “Fifty boxes of grain, fresh from Tuscany. The finest quality grain you can find in the south.” You hoped that would be enough to sell it. You weren’t even sure if it was the best grain in the south, but you could always brag about it.

William leaned back in his chair, narrowing his eyes at you. “You expect me to trade my shipment of weapons for fifty boxes of grain? Pray tell me, Master Domenico, did my quartermaster tell you what it was we’re shipping?” You shook your head.

“Five crates of ten crossbows each.” You held your breath, your heart skipping a beat. Crossbows were extremely valuable, if they were of good make. A crate of ten could easily go for 100 ducats, about 40 ducats more than twenty-five crates of grain. If you wanted these crossbows, you’d have to bring something else to the table.

You slowly begin to talk. “Fifty boxes of grain..”

>Offer him ducats (You have a total of 300 left)
>Offer him a ship.
>Offer him a position as admiral of your fleet.

>>46334680
So we need to offer him about 460 ducats' worth? How much do ships generally sell for?

>>46334680
>>Offer him ducats (You have a total of 300 left)
Enough to cover the cost? Maybe a preferred customer discount if he continuously brings suchj things in and offer future ships?

>>46334680
>Offer him a position as admiral of your fleet.
Literally the cheapest option.

>>46334680
Fifty boxes and a position

>>46334840
>>46334853
He probably doesn't think too much of us at the moment. Why would he accept a questionable position instead of looking for someone who will give him something material in return?

Though I do admit that we can probably, at the very least, lowball him for the reasons that we haven't personally ascertained the crossbows' conditions - the seas can be very harsh on wood, you know - and that he hasn't had any luck finding other buyers.

>>46334903
You're offering him the grain + a ship / ducats / a position. As admiral, he'll obviously get a decent pay.

In any case, you get a person who looks like he's been sailing for a long time as a contact.

>>46334903
But if we offer him the ability to dock at our docks at a reduced rate/a safehouse it might be a good idea

>>46334903
>>46334853
>Offer him a position as admiral of your fleet.

“… and a position as the Admiral of my fleet.” You finished the sentence with the bombshell. It suddenly grew deathly quiet in the store, as both Desiderius and the quartermaster looked over to the table, stunned.

William sat silently across from you, measuring you with his blue eyes. It felt like years passed, and you could nearly feel yourself collapse under the weight of his gaze. He slowly opened his mouth to speak. “I’ll need to see your ships, your warehouse and your docks, before we will discuss the rates. Only after that is done, will I give you my answer.” You suddenly felt at ease, as if the weight of the world had been lifted from your shoulders. You still had a lot to take care of, but at least you had a temporary answer.

Desiderius approached, leaning down to whisper in your ear. “The quartermaster will be buying five boxes of grain, and enough salted meat and fish to take them back to England.” You glance at your companion for a brief moment, before nodding. Even if the deal didn’t go through, at least you earned 25 ducats. A profit is a profit.

Desiderius straightened his back and quietly remained next to you. “Agreed.” You rose from your seat and extended your hand to William. He pulled off a black leather glove, taking your hand and shaking it.

His grip felt like iron.

“Shall we inspect the ships, then?”

>Depart now.
>Tell him to meet you by the docks at sunset.

I made a fuckup.

>>46335187
>>Depart now.

>>46335187
Depart now but tell him to bring the weapons

>>46335187
>Depart now.

>>46335306
>Depart now.

You rise from your chair, nodding. “I assume you’ll have your men bring the crates to my warehouse, so I can inspect the crossbows?”

The captain turned to his quartermaster, speaking to him in French. Sadly, one of the many languages you could not speak. Nor was it one that Desiderius could speak. After a few moments of deliberation, William turned to you. “They will. I assume that the wares my quartermaster has purchased are also in this warehouse?”

You glance back at Desiderius, who simply nods. “Good. Then, let us be on our way.” Just a few minutes later, the four of you were standing outside. You locked up the store – hopefully not for the rest of the day – and led the entourage towards the warehouse. On the way, you’re told stories of England, and the rebellion they faced in 1088. It seems that William was knighted for his loyalty to the successor King, William II.
The four of you arrive at the warehouse, where the two guards step aside. As you open the door, you notice that the first crates of grain have already been shipped to the bakers. That meant that the money was already rolling in.

“Enough room to store at least three-hundred crates in total, along with fifty barrels.” You proudly began, before William cut you off. “It’s impressive to say the least. Let us see these ships.”

You open the large doors, leading down to the docks attached to your warehouse. Three galleys were docked. They looked to be in a good shape, despite not having sailed out in two years.

>Make an apology about their state
>Let William inspect them personally

>>46335472
>>Let William inspect them personally

>>46335472
>let him inspect while talking about all the things these boats have done

>>46335472
>Let William inspect them personally.

>>46335616
>Let William inspect them personally

You didn’t say a word as the knight walked over the pier, looking at each of the galleys. You quietly followed him each step of the way. He looked over his shoulder. “How long have they been sitting here?”

Holding your hands behind you back, you look towards a ship. You couldn’t see anything wrong with them. “Two years.” The captain looked back, nodding. “I see.” He made his way to one of the planks, stepping onboard the galley. “Enough room to hold large shipments. An officer’s tent. They’ll need cleaning, obviously.”

Then came the question you were dreading. “Crews?” You shook your head. “I see.” He whistled sharply, motioning for his quartermaster to come onboard the ship. They discussed something in French again. After a couple of words, William turned around. “My quartermaster can serve as captain of this vessel. He has been sailing with me for the past six years, and has sailed as quartermaster for the past four.”

You scratch the back of your neck, eyeing the French quartermaster.

>Accept the quartermaster as a captain.
>Refuse the quartermaster as a captain.

>>46335646
Ask him of his sailing, where he went, what he's done and such.

>>46335646
>Accept the quartermaster as a captain.
Dude's been sailing with William for years. There's probably a good reason why he's quartermaster

>>46335646
>>Accept the quartermaster as a captain.

>>46335646
>Accept the quartermaster as a captain.

>>46336119
>Accept the quartermaster as a captain.

You figure that there’s a good reason why William would suggest him. There might be more below the surface, but the Frenchman is the one who proposed this entire deal in the first place. It’s only thanks to him that you’re currently talking to William.

After some moments of deliberation, you extend your hand. “Agreed.” The Frenchman takes it, inclining his head. “You won’t regret it, Monsieur Particino.” You then realize you hadn’t caught his name. He noticed your confusion, giving a wide smile. It was at that point you noticed he was missing two teeth. “The name is Michèl. No places, just Michèl.” You shake the man’s hand. William suddenly interjects. “You’ll need to find two more captains, lest you want this fleet to run at fifty percent. If you want, I can find some for you, but it will take time.”

From the way he was talking, you figured he was ready to accept your offer.

“Now, let’s talk wages.” He pauses, looking at you with a stern gaze. “Sixty ducats. Per month.” A full quarter of what you’re earning during a bad harvesting season. But, if this man can deliver you weapons, you’ll be set for some time.

>Agree to the sum.
>Haggle.

>>46336126
>>Haggle.
Always haggle!

>>46336126
>Haggle.
Not to reduce the sum, but simply to forewarn him that he WILL receive a penalty if shipments are damaged, lost or arrive late. We've been having too much problems with that recently.

>>46336126
>Haggle.
How can we call ourselves merchant if we don't haggle?

>>46336126
>>Haggle.

>>46336325
>Haggle

You scratch the back of your neck again. “With all due respect, sixty ducats is a very steep price. The most I can offer for the first year is forty-five a month. We’ve recently had a bad harvest, and business has suffered under it.” And there were still loans you had to repay. They amounted to the grand sum of one-hundred and fifty ducats. With absolutely no interest, thankfully.

You continue carefully. “However, if the shipments arrive in pristine condition, you will receive an additional fifteen ducats per shipment.” The tall man stood as still as a statue, before suddenly extending his hand.

“I agree.”

And that’s all for tonight, folks!

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>>46336373
Interesting. So yay to being an arms merchant I guess. Just gotta watch out for any knives in the back.

>>46330606
A north african?