Chapter 239 - Discussions at the Executive Meeting
"Everyone is here, so let's start the meeting. Today, we'll begin with something from the president. Yukari-dono, please go ahead."
It's unusual for me to be the one starting things off. Usually, I just listen and comment when asked or when something catches my attention.
But this time, it's a report I gathered, so it makes sense for me to present it. I've already briefed the heads of the relevant departments through the Secretariat, but it's important for everyone to be on the same page.
"Right, I've already talked to the Instruction Bureau and the Public Relations Bureau, but Baron Icetoy has a new proposal. In short, it seems there are several wealthy individuals who want to send their delinquent daughters to us to straighten them out. He’s willing to take them in at one million Gist per girl, and he’s already worked out the details."
I’m not ready to dive into the specifics yet. I want to gauge the reaction first. If there’s major opposition or significant concerns, we can reconsider this proposal.
"Whoa, that’s quick. He’s already this far along?"
"A fast worker can be a good thing, but we don’t know what ulterior motives he might have," Gradena and Mary expressed their skepticism, and the other members shared similar sentiments.
"While we can't fully grasp his deeper intentions, it seems the Baron plans to earn a commission from introducing these girls to us. Beyond just the financial gain, he likely aims to strengthen his political standing by showcasing his connection to us."
"That’s a shrewd move by the Baron."
"Yes, but at least his motives are clear, which is a plus."
In the underworld-controlled Exembra, the Kikyo Society is one of the three major powers. Even though we haven’t been officially referred to as one of the Three Great Families, I believe we will be soon.
Moreover, we maintain good relations with the Royal Capital’s Grand Duke. I think the Kikyo Society has become quite influential in the Kingdom of Brenark.
Given this, the Baron likely wants to establish a strong connection with us early on, more so than just making a quick buck from commissions.
"Considering the pros and cons, I don’t think the Baron will act against our interests. If anyone has concerns, please share them."
After a brief murmur, a few hands went up.
"Ophelia, go ahead."
"The Baron’s motives are beyond me, but I’ll leave that to the others. What concerns me are these delinquent girls. Can they really fit in with our trainees? We agreed not to give them special treatment, right?"
It’s a valid concern. There are various complications to consider.
Typically, those who knock on our door are often in desperate situations, either with no other options or driven by significant ambition. They are highly motivated individuals.
Throwing spoiled, unmotivated girls into this environment would usually be a disaster. But that’s where the Instruction Bureau’s expertise comes into play.
Actually, I’m quite optimistic.
Firstly, reforming these spoiled girls is a paid job. We can do whatever it takes as long as they don’t die. And if the worst happens, we won’t accept any complaints. The contract is clear on that.
To be blunt, it’s a harsh deal, but it’s also a realistic one. If parents expect us to solve their problems with money alone, they’re in for a rude awakening. The Baron has considered the potential for trainee casualties and will likely handle the negotiations skillfully.
However, we won’t let anyone die. We will push the limits, but we will also provide a way out. Forcing them into a situation where they must try their hardest to survive will naturally drive them to work hard.
"Fulaveneta, what do you think?"
"I believe it’s manageable. Many new trainees start off defiant, including some who came out of curiosity from wealthy merchant families. Transforming them into capable members is our mission, and we have a proven track record. We can handle this."
Her confidence is well-earned. She has successfully trained many members in the past.
Yes, I agree. The Instruction Bureau will take the lead, but the rest of us, including myself, will also pitch in as temporary instructors and training officers.
Once they become trainees, they will be treated the same as everyone else, regardless of their background. In fact, the spoiled girls might have it tougher.
Thinking they can outlast the harsh conditions is a big mistake. No one will help them. The only way out is to overcome the trials set before them. Failing that, the only escape is death.
However, I don’t think any of these pampered girls will choose to take their own lives. They will be pushed to their limits and will fight to survive. That’s what the Instruction Bureau’s instructors are there for.
Honestly, I don’t expect perfection. If it doesn’t work out, that’s fine too.
Even if they don’t complete the training, the experience here can be a powerful tool for their parents. Threatening to send them back to the Kikyo Society can be a terrifying deterrent.
Setting a time limit is also important. We can’t keep them indefinitely, so a maximum of three hundred days seems reasonable. We’ll keep this limit a secret from the girls.
"If Fulaveneta says it’s doable, I have no complaints. This could even be exciting."
It seems everyone is on board, at least for now. Given Fulaveneta’s track record, there’s no reason to oppose her.
"Alright, the acceptance of wealthy delinquent girls will be led by the Instruction Bureau. Work directly with Baron Icetoy, and if there are any issues, let me know. Otherwise, I trust Fulaveneta’s judgment. Let’s make this work."
With nods of agreement, I moved on to the next topic.
"Actually, Baron Icetoy has another proposal. He wants to charge people to watch the trainees’ exercises. I think allowing them to observe the final exam from a distance is acceptable. What do you think?"
The room buzzed with discussion.
To provide context, I shared the revenue projections from the Baron’s proposal and the costs associated with the training program, as provided by the Secretariat.
It seems that the prospect of additional income is appealing. Besides, the training exercises don’t involve any sensitive information.
"Yukari, how exactly will this work? The exam site is in the Northeast Forest, and getting people there would be a hassle, right?"
"True, Bonnie. My idea is to build a small mountain near the forest. We can make it accessible by vehicle, and from the top, they can use far-seeing magic items to watch the exam. It’s the easiest solution, I think."
Far-seeing magic items are like binoculars. With high-level Physical Enhancement Magic, one can see far distances, but we can’t expect that from ordinary people. These items are readily available, so it shouldn’t be difficult to gather them. Wealthy individuals might even bring their own.
"Building a mountain... Is that even possible?"
"Frederica, what do you think? I don’t see any issues with it."
"…Well, the land outside the city is generally not privately owned. As long as it doesn’t cause problems, no one will complain. However, asking the local administration for permission might be complicated. We might need to seek approval from the Kingdom, which could be challenging."
Creating a mountain, whether through the local administration or the Kingdom, would likely be met with confusion and possibly rejection. The best approach is to just do it and deal with any complaints if they arise.
It seems everyone agrees. Let’s just get it done.
"Alright then. We’ll build the mountain at some point. We’ll also need a commentator for the observers. This could be another task for the Instruction Bureau. In that case, the budget and compensation will be handled separately, Frederica."
"Understood. The specifics will depend on the recoverable amount."
"Given the uncertainty, we’ll take it step by step. Additionally, involving the Public Relations Bureau for the commentary and guiding roles could be beneficial. Margaret, what do you think?"
Margaret, who used to have a country girl vibe, has transformed significantly thanks to makeup tips from Rosmerta’s personal makeup artist. She now exudes a professional, broadcaster-like presence.
"I was planning to volunteer for this. This is an opportunity to build new connections with nobles and merchants. The Public Relations Bureau should be involved, and I believe this will be more of a PR opportunity."
"I see. That makes sense. Let’s coordinate between the Instruction Bureau and the Public Relations Bureau. We’ll address any issues as they arise. That’s all for today."
There were no further comments, so we agreed to proceed with Baron Icetoy’s proposals.
With that, my part of the meeting was over.
"Did anyone else have something to discuss that wasn’t pre-arranged?"
Kikyo Society’s executive meetings are held a few times a year for knowledge sharing and reporting on achievements, or on an ad-hoc basis when convened by a member. Since I convened this one, I figured it was a good time to address any other issues.
Charlotte and Priene raised their hands.
"Charlotte, go ahead."
"Thank you. I recently consulted with the president and Shelby about finding an advanced engraving mage. Through Shelby, I inquired with the Blacksmith Guild, and it turns out they will soon be hosting a master engraver from the Royal Capital. I plan to apprentice myself to him during the winter. I’ve already received a positive response from the master."
This is important, but I had already approved it.
Without Charlotte, we can’t enchant new equipment, which is a significant issue. Everyone hopes she will return stronger, but long-term absences are concerning. However, we can’t deny her the opportunity for growth.
"I understand. We’ll miss you, but we’re counting on you to come back stronger. Work hard and achieve your goals."
"Of course. The master will be in the Royal Capital by the end of autumn, and I plan to apprentice myself to him for the winter."
"From the end of autumn until the end of winter, then. You can decide when to leave, but make sure to return by early spring."
It’s still late summer, so Charlotte will be busy preparing before her departure.
She will need to schedule consultations for personal equipment enchantments and prepare for the new members’ cloaks in advance. It’s going to be a hectic time.
"I have high hopes for Charlotte’s advancement. Next, Priene."
"Sure thing! I’d like to discuss the magical items for the new Headquarters!"
Priene, the head of the Construction Bureau. The new Headquarters is progressing smoothly, I thought.
"Magical items? We already have a list of necessary items, don’t we? Is there a shortage?"
"There is a shortage! We’ve been procuring the items for daily life as planned, but I’m concerned about the security-related items!"
"Security items are available on the market, so I thought that would be sufficient."
"Technically, yes. But, I just wanted to double-check."
"Priene, what’s your concern?"
"Well, we’re building an extraordinary base, right? Is it really okay to use ordinary market items for security? I’m just wondering, that’s all."
Hmm, her phrasing is intriguing.
Is it really okay? It’s hard to say no when someone puts it that way. Human nature makes us want to avoid a definitive no.
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Each member is busy with their respective tasks, and as our organization grows, things get more complicated.
Next time, we’ll continue with Priene’s question and hear from other executives. The executive meeting will wrap up in the next chapter.