Chapter 187 - Territory to Control
Central Avenue and the red-light district are territories that generate an unimaginable amount of profit, territories we cannot afford to lose.
Securing a foothold on Central Avenue, lined with high-end shops, is an opportunity we can't miss. Even just by taking a cut of the profits, we can expect a substantial sum. If we can improve things further, the potential is huge. In fact, we're already planning to do just that.
The red-light district is no different. We can create more opportunities for Caroline, and the potential earnings, even conservatively estimated, will surpass those of Central Avenue. With Caroline's skills and the Kikyo Society's reputation as a women-led organization, achieving this is practically a given.
Securing the McDallian Family's headquarters is a must. Controlling this area means becoming the next rulers in place of the McDallians. Geographically, it's a prime location to keep an eye on areas we haven't fully dominated yet. The vast estate itself is also highly valuable real estate.
"Yukari-dono, it seems unusually practical and unambitious to me, but in reality, we don't have enough personnel to handle all this."
"Yes, it's definitely a tough challenge. But we can't let other forces take control of this area."
"From the Intelligence Bureau's perspective, if we consider the future, we should secure it even if it means pushing our limits. This is a crucial area within the former McDallian Family's territory. There's no reason to overlook it."
The Kikyo Society's resources have only recently started to feel less strained after managing our previous territories.
With the organization restructured and the apprentices trained by Fulaveneta gradually becoming regular members, our operations have been running smoothly. We have some leeway to handle a bit more, but taking on the McDallian Family's main base, a corner of Central Avenue, and the red-light district all at once will be a significant challenge. I know it's tough, but it's not impossible.
After hearing our thoughts, everyone responds with their own reactions.
"The Vice-Commanders said it would be tough, but they didn't say it was impossible."
"The 'tough' they're referring to is on a whole different level..."
"Considering the current situation and the extensive new territory we want to take over, it's bound to be tough."
"Ugh, fewer breaks are sad, but if we think about the future, it's definitely necessary."
The difficulty is clear, so it's not a simple yes or no. Even the new leaders have their own thoughts, though they're not backing down.
One of the old-timers, who had been observing the new leaders, speaks up.
"Whether it's possible or not, I want a clear answer. If it's not possible, we don't do it. If it is, we go for it. It's a simple matter, don't you think?"
"Do you really need to hesitate? Yukari-san has already made up her mind, hasn't she?"
"That's right. Hey, Yukari. If we overcome these tough times, we expect some rewards, right? This is a big territory, so it shouldn't be a cheap deal."
I like this kind of straightforward talk. It's simple and direct. The old-timers always show their mettle in situations like this, and their reliability stands out.
"I'm not a monster, so I won't ask you to do the impossible. I just said it's possible, even if it's tough. As we expand our control, everyone's rewards will increase. Not just money, but better living conditions, better food and drinks, with a much higher budget. Right, Frederica?"
When someone mutters, "I thought you were a monster," I'll make sure they regret it during the next bonus evaluation.
"The calculations aren't done yet, but I can guarantee as the Head of Operations that the rewards will increase."
"Whew! That's all I needed to hear."
It's definitely going to be tough, but if the rewards are certain, the motivation will be there.
Besides, we've worked so hard to take down the McDallian Family and secure this new territory. If everyone isn't fully committed, it's going to be a problem. This is the time to show our determination.
Though I didn't say it out loud, we'll proceed with the territory control, but we can't forget about the Legisamo Cartel. We'll need to deal with them too, which will add to the difficulty.
We're already deeply involved in major interests. The Arena, for example, is something we need to consider soon. Priene from the Construction Bureau is handling various aspects, but once the construction is complete, we'll need to shift to organizing events.
According to the initial plans, the construction should be finishing soon, but political reasons have caused delays. There's supposed to be interference from Rosmerta, so I'm optimistic about the delays. However, with various interests at play, we can't deliberately slow things down.
Still, this is incredibly tough. It's so tough that I need to find a way to make it easier.
"... Fulaveneta, how's the apprentice training going? Are there any small groups that can graduate soon?"
If we can train more people, it would be the quickest way to secure the necessary manpower.
I cast an expectant glance at the reliable head of the Instruction Bureau, hoping for some good news.
"I was just about to mention this. I'm planning to graduate a large group of apprentices soon. There are about thirty of them, and they're full of energy. We can also expect a steady stream of new graduates in the future. While it won't be an immediate boost, they should be able to help."
What a relief. It was worth asking. The other leaders are immediately excited.
"That's great news! Perfect timing."
"Even if it's not a sudden boost, a group of this size will make a significant difference. It'll also help the Secretariat."
"Good work, Fulaveneta. With this many new regular members, things will become much more realistic."
Adding nearly thirty new members is a significant help. Just thinking about it, we'll need a lot of people to manage the new territory.
The McDallian Family's headquarters and its surroundings, Central Avenue, and the red-light district. We need at least three temporary teams, each on standby at all times.
For the headquarters, we need to secure the area, conduct patrols, negotiate with local power players, and perform reconnaissance. All of this will require a substantial number of people.
On Central Avenue, patrols and negotiations with merchant guilds will be the main focus, but we can't afford to let others take over. We need to constantly show that this is Kikyo Society territory, which will require a lot of manpower.
The red-light district will be a showcase for our management skills and security. Until Caroline joins us, we need to be the absolute guardians. It's a hotbed of conflicts and troubles, perfect for demonstrating our strength, but it will also be very demanding. More people will always be better.
Most importantly, none of these areas are stable. There will be many who underestimate us, especially emerging forces looking to capitalize on the situation. The risks are high, and the complexity of issues will be far greater. We can't rely on new members for these tasks.
When it comes to deployment, we'll divide the new members among the different sections, with mid-level and old-timers forming the temporary teams. Even with this, the thirty new members won't be enough for three teams.
We'll need to gather the bare minimum from every department. The Headquarters Direct Response Unit will be fully integrated, and we'll get help from Gradena and Valeria to form a viable team.
Ah, and I'll request Caroline's immediate return.
"Alright, thanks to the Instruction Bureau, we have some hope. We'll decide on specific placements tomorrow, but we need to secure the territory today and tomorrow. We can't let our guard down and lose it to someone else."
"We've left some of the younger members on site. We're not fools who would hand over our territory."
"The next few days will be crucial."
Indeed. The power structure of the Five Great Families has completely collapsed. Not only the McDallians, but the Gandrault Gang is gone, and the Anastasia Union is weakened. Even the Clad Family's main branch has been hit. It's impossible for everything to remain unchanged. The Snake Head Society's former territory is now a blank slate without anyone to keep it in check.
The underworld is abuzz with major news. Not only emerging forces but also organizations that were under the Five Great Families will be moving. We're entering an era of regional competition.
"Also, everyone. I know you understand, but the temporary teams can't be made up of new members. Please think about which members to reassign."
"Considering the importance, multiple combat team leaders might need to be reassigned."
Well said. Good advice, and everyone is thinking carefully.
"I understand this is tough, but we have to do it. Let's plan for tomorrow."
"Agreed. If new information comes in, our plans might change, but let's focus on tomorrow."
"Don't say that."
With this, we have a clear plan for the immediate future. We'll finalize the details after tomorrow's information exchange.
Well, it's time to wrap things up.
"Alright, that's it. If anyone has any other requests, we can consider them."
"No way, no more."
"I'm already full."
Everyone seems to agree that we shouldn't push any further.
The territories we decided to secure are fine, but we should also consider if there are other opportunities. We can't manage everything, so it's important to prioritize.
Just as I was thinking that, the atmosphere shifted as someone mentioned something unnecessary.
"Still, it's a shame. There are other territories with art galleries and sake breweries that we can't handle..."
Ugh, that's true, but...
"Being greedy isn't admirable. We could let others manage those areas and take a cut of the profits instead."
"What?"
"Hey, Charlotte, you've become quite ruthless."
"Taking a cut of the profits, huh!"
Ha, ha, what a laugh. Charlotte has really grown into a strong leader.
"Didn't we already do that?"
The advisor's exasperated sigh. Time seemed to pause.
Right, that's true. The territories we decided to take are the ones we want direct control over, but the others might not be as crucial.
"I didn't say direct control was necessary, but it is a quicker solution."
"Indeed, there's no need to insist on direct control. Kikyo Society already has such organizations under our umbrella. If there's no issue with adding more, that could work."
True, our subordinate organizations may not have a strong presence, but they contribute significantly. They defended territories well during the McDallian attack and have been paying regular tributes. We've helped them out occasionally, and our relationship is good.
With so much unclaimed territory available, it might be worth offering some to them. If the conditions are right, we could even add new organizations under our control.
"Direct control would be easier, but if we add new groups, we'll need to supervise and manage them. It might not be an immediate solution."
"I was expecting an immediate attack, but it's unreasonable to underestimate the Kikyo Society after we took down the Five Great Families. Some might challenge us, but others might seek a proper arrangement."
Proper arrangements can be interesting.
"I see. They want to control a territory with our blessing. Depending on their attitude and tributes, it could work out."
"We won't accept weak conditions. If they accept our terms, it might work, but it's a delicate matter."
"Still, it's better to have them under control. We don't want them to start troublesome businesses."
"It's a delicate issue. If there are conflicts over the size of the profits or business practices, it could lead to more conflict."
"Fine by me. If it doesn't work out, we'll settle it with a fight. I'm okay with that."
The discussion dragged on, and it was another late night.
There are many things to consider and do, but focusing on the territories we must secure is the best approach. We can't afford to fail here. We'll discuss the future scenarios again as a team.
And first, there's tomorrow. Whatever comes, I'm both excited and a bit apprehensive.