Knight Lord: Start with Daily Intelligence.

Chapter 349 The Dwarf Kingdom's Trade and the Rising Livestock Industry
The conversation with Bairga gave Su Li an unexpected surprise.

If they can capture a certain number of vultures, it would mean Su Li has obtained a unique way to acquire mounts. Moreover, it's located deep within the highest peaks of the Gray Mountains, a place that other human forces simply cannot penetrate to obtain.

Of course, these beasts are quite ferocious, and Su Li doesn't need too many. 24 or even 12 a year would be enough!
These are griffin riders, a rank even higher than pegasus riders. The Empire has very few flying griffins; they are mostly the mounts of high-ranking generals and top nobles. Even half-griffins are rare, so acquiring a large number of griffins would undoubtedly significantly enhance the strength of a territory.

So on their way to the ranch, Su Li asked, "You just said that you dwarves need some venison and beef? Is there something wrong?"

Bairgar waved his hand proudly: "It's a joyous occasion. As you know, our new High King Solgrim is wise and mighty. Under his rule, we dwarves are thriving and our nation is powerful. The Grey Mountain Province has not experienced a major crisis for two consecutive years, and the government is efficient and the people are harmonious. Around every dwarven fortress, a number of new dwarven towns and small fortresses have sprung up, and these small fortresses have also built their own mines, farms, and workshops."

"High-quality military equipment from Dragonrock Fortress is selling very well throughout the Dwarven Kingdom, and meteorite ore produced by Iron Peak Fortress is highly sought after. Even trade routes previously blocked by goblin tribes have been reopened. A large number of tenacious elite dwarven warriors and Ironbreakers provide escort for caravans traveling through underground trade routes. On the surface, groups of dwarven rangers provide security and protection for fortresses, towns, and mountain passes."

"This booming economy and thriving commerce have led to a growing population and increased consumption, but our weak agriculture and animal husbandry cannot provide enough food. His Majesty also wishes to hold a beer festival to celebrate the kingdom's peace and development with beer and barbecue in the King's Hall. Therefore, we need more food."

After speaking, Bairga emphasized the importance of trade between humans and dwarves.

"My big friend, you know. The arrival of humans at the foot of the Grey Mountains almost completely altered the dwarves' way of life long ago. As humans continued to cultivate the fertile lowlands, the dwarves gradually realized that humans were superior to them in agriculture and animal husbandry. Correspondingly, the dwarves were better at manufacturing weapons, tools, and armor. Thus, the two races were able to complement each other's needs when facing the common threat of the Greenskins. Trade naturally developed between the two races, especially among those who cultivated the lowlands and eventually established powerful territories."

"As the threat of the Greenskins gradually subsided, trade between humans and dwarves flourished, with meat, grains, and fruits exchanged for processed metals and gold. This trade finally allowed some dwarven agricultural and pastoral clans to turn to more valuable pursuits, such as forging and mining. The benefits of trade were threefold:"
First, it enriched the diversity of food. The areas where humans settled had diverse climates and produced a variety of crops, while the mountain crops of the dwarfs were extremely limited.

Secondly, it helps replenish other dwarven clans. Agricultural and pastoral clans can switch professions without damaging their ancestors' reputations, making them a good source of manpower for mining and warrior clans that have been severely affected by war.

Thirdly, the purpose of cultivating dwarven grains is entirely for brewing. Human-grown grains are already sufficient to meet the dwarves' daily food needs; now we can focus entirely on brewing.

The dwarves' economic model is clearly somewhat similar to that of the Black Forest.

Overly prosperous industry and commerce squeezed out agricultural production. Or rather, weak agriculture could not support such a thriving industrial and commercial economy, just as beautiful flowers can hardly bloom on barren land.

Su Li decisively replied, “No problem. This is the most traditional trade between humans and dwarves. I will open trade routes for you and provide you with large quantities of grain, meat, and fruit in exchange for your gold, equipment, and extraordinary animals, such as eagles.”

As the two were talking, the group arrived at the vicinity of the Blacksin Territory's ranch, mainly because it was very close to Blacksin City, just north of Bjorn Bay.

On the eastern delta where the Blackwater and Brienne rivers meet, the Björn Bay is closer to the Brienne River in the south, while this pasture is closer to the Blackwater River in the north.

This is actually a great grazing area, with vast plains and a sacred forest on the east side that provides shelter from wind and snow in winter.

The only problem might be in the summer, when the temperature here is on average 3 to 5 degrees Celsius higher than the Blood Plateau to the north. Especially in the summer, a 5-degree Celsius increase can have a significant impact on animal husbandry.

Livestock, especially warhorses, prefer cool climates or the shady shadows of twisted forests. That's why the Elven Horse is famous throughout the world.

However, the plains also have unique advantages in livestock breeding, at least rams and fighting rams are very suitable for fattening on these flat terrains.

When Su Li and Lord Bairga arrived here under the escort of a large number of Black Forest Guard knights, the place was already crowded with knights and armed servants.

Su Li summoned Edmund, the steward of the pasture, and asked curiously, "Why are so many knights gathered here? Shouldn't they be watching the match in the arena?"

Edmund immediately replied excitedly, "They're all here to buy warhorses. Today, the knightly families from the north sent over a batch of warhorses for sale. This has caused a sensation among the knights, since today's arena match is a competition between the losers, and apart from a few people with vested interests, the spectators aren't very interested. Last night, the tavern was crowded with people because news of the Holy Crusade was circulating, so the knights are focusing more on purchasing warhorses and armor for themselves today to improve their combat strength."

The news of the Holy Great Expedition certainly didn't leak out of the Black Forest territory. Only a few core members of the territory's high command knew about it. As for the fact that the target had been confirmed as Mount Oka, Su Li only told Hilde and Oliver. These two would never reveal such confidential information.

However, Su Li did not delve into the details. With so many sects and monasteries in the empire, it was entirely possible that some of them could foresee some information in advance.

The spread of such rumors will only create momentum for Su Li to announce the news at the awards ceremony on the day of the finals.

Then Su Li asked, "My minister, how many livestock do we currently have on our ranch?"

Edmund didn't answer directly, but instead brought up an important piece of news: "Good news, my lord. With the gradual rise of White Keep, we have a more solid forward base on the Scarlet Heights. So we have built a much larger White Keep Lord's Ranch on the Scarlet Heights. That ranch is not measured in hectares like the current Bauhinia Noble Ranch, but covers an area of ​​more than 300 miles."

Su Li's eyes lit up. This was indeed good news. Although it was a bit of a disappointment that this ranch had become the second largest in the territory, it meant that the scale of ranches in the entire territory had increased significantly.

"Currently, our ranch manages two large ranches and three small ranches, with a total of more than 1300 warhorses, more than 3000 draft horses, more than 700 mountain rams, and tens of thousands of sheep. In addition, there are more than 1000 Uros cattle, yellow cattle, and dairy cows."

"If we consider the size of the entire territory, this figure could increase by 2% to 3%."

Su Li said with approval, "Your Dawn Church and the Beast Master have made great contributions. I remember that you had more than 920 warhorses last year. This year you have increased them to 1300. That's a remarkable achievement."

Edmund didn't take credit, saying, "There are probably only a hundred or so qualified warhorses among them that have grown from foals. A horse is in its growth period from 1 to 3 years old. At 1 year old, its size is close to 70% of that of an adult horse, but its bones are not fully closed. Around 3 years old, it basically stops growing, and its bone strength is close to maturity."

"Basic training begins at 2-3 years old, gradually progressing to obedience training, adaptation to harnesses and riding, and the development of endurance, balance, and basic commands. Most of our foals are still in this stage."

"Specialized training is conducted for children aged 3 to 5, desensitizing them to environmental factors such as noise, flags, and weapons, and training them in tactical maneuvers, including charging, sudden stops, and formation coordination. At the same time, physical fitness is strengthened to adapt them to long-distance runs and improve their load-bearing capacity. What we are selling now are mainly these warhorses, most of which are spoils of war from various battlefields captured by our marshal. For example, during this western expedition, in addition to capturing a large number of knights, the marshal also captured a large number of warhorses."

“Generally, once warhorses are 5 to 6 years old, have been trained in actual combat, have established a tacit understanding with their riders, and have developed a stable performance on the battlefield, they will no longer be sold to the public.”

"Of course, all of this is based on normal calculations. They start serving at 3 or 4 years old and retire from the battlefield after 10 years old. In reality, high-quality feed, careful care, and the strong winds of the Giron can accelerate their development."

“Especially draft horses, which can be sold after about two years and put to various uses. Many knights, in addition to buying excellent steeds, would also buy a batch of draft horses for their squires and servants to transport supplies, carry luggage, military tents, and so on.”

Clearly, the breeding cycle of livestock in the Hessian Territory is shorter than anything Edmund has described.

After all, Black Forest Territory truly has the Blessed Wisteria Tree that gathers the winds of Jilun, as well as a large amount of extraordinary pasture grass, Moonlight Alfalfa, and a large number of Dawn Church priests who carefully take care of the livestock in the pasture.

In addition to improving the Manor System, the Academy has also improved the Warhorse Breeding System. The improved and more refined breeding system can provide the territory with a large number of fine steeds, making it easier for foals to grow into qualified warhorses, carrying heavily armored knights in repeated battles.

Therefore, the number of livestock available for slaughter would be considerable, which would undoubtedly be an important source of territory.

Su Li immediately asked, "How were the results this time?"

"The profits from ordinary warhorses are not as high as those from Bloodmane horses. One warhorse sells for about 3 gold crowns, while a draft horse sells for only 1 gold crown. We are putting a lot of effort into selling them. If the market is booming during this festival, we may sell close to 500 warhorses and twice that number of draft horses, with prices reaching over 2500 gold crowns. If we include some of the exceptionally fine ones, the total price could reach as high as 3000 gold crowns."

Su Li was quite satisfied with this figure. Like agriculture, livestock farming doesn't yield high unit prices; it's all about volume.

Warhorses and draft horses are somewhat similar to carriages. In a nation founded on knighthood, even farmers ride draft horses, and the price of a single mount is roughly equivalent to a year's income for a profession. If you add the two and a half griffin eggs and some battle rams sold by the territory, the livestock industry will generate up to 5000 gold coins during this Radiant Arena, making it a very considerable fortune.
Meanwhile, the dwarf ambassador, Bairga, said eagerly, "As expected, you humans are more talented in animal husbandry. My big friend, with so many cows and sheep, perhaps we can reach an agreement."

Su Li said with great interest, "That's exactly what I was thinking. Your Dwarf Kingdom's monster mounts and high-level armor are exactly what our territory needs. I wonder what kind of agreement Your Excellency wishes to reach?"

After a moment's thought, Bairga said, "I heard that you previously purchased a batch of exquisite armor from our Dragon Rock Fortress through the Redbeard Clan. Now that I'm here, you can trade directly with us."

"This year we can provide you with 100 sets of exquisite armor, 20 sets of perfect armor, 1 set of rare armor, and no less than 8 eagles."

Hiss~ Su Li immediately took a deep breath. As expected of the Dwarf Kingdom, they really made a big move.

One set of rare-grade armor and at least eight eagle horses!
How many agricultural products and tons of meat would Su Li have to sell to buy all of this?

It's no wonder that dwarves are willing to trade with humans; their products are very competitive and have added value.

Normally, only a duchy or electorate can come into contact with beings at the level of a dwarven kingdom.

Su Li's small pioneering territory still has too weak a foundation and resources. They can't even meet the needs of a trade agreement that they casually throw out.

Fortunately, it was only a difficult task, and with a little effort, the leader of the Black Forest was still able to complete the deal.

Su Li turned to Edmund and asked, "My minister, given the current situation in our territory, how many livestock can we provide for the dwarves?"

Edmund considered carefully for a moment: "My lord, this is a huge deal from the mountains, and it won't be easy for us to satisfy it. At the very least, we must show our sincerity and ensure that this deal is fair and just. We absolutely cannot allow our dwarf friends to suffer a great loss. This is not how we in the Blackwood treat our friends."

Su Li clapped his hands decisively and praised, "My minister, your words shine like gold. I also believe that true friendship should never let friends suffer losses. Our friendship should be like gold, able to withstand the test of flames and the tempering of time."

“But this is not easy, my lord,” Edmund said cautiously. “Even at a relatively favorable price, the Vibranium Rune Armor is worth more than 1000, and the price of rare armor is beyond measure. Therefore, we must provide sufficient food and rations, and may even need to replenish a certain amount of gold.”

Su Li nodded. In fact, this transaction was a fairly normal trade agreement for the Dwarf Kingdom. The transaction amount, worth tens of thousands of gold crowns, was considered average for a power of this level.

Seeing that Su Li agreed, Edmund continued, "I think we can start this deal by providing food. Our territory has a large amount of venison, smoked meat, and smoked fish, which can provide at least 30 tons. These are all materials that can be used as excellent food, and their value will not be less than 10 copper coins per pound."

Ten copper coins is undoubtedly an underestimate. Prices in this world are always well-known. Back in Maleburg, Su Li learned that an ordinary farmer consumes 3 to 5 copper coins worth of food per day, and his annual food expenditure is between 1 and 2 silver coins. However, this food consists of bland and tasteless things like black bread, beans, and cabbage.

The knights' food consisted of cheese, bread, ale, pies, and some roast meat and jerky. This amounted to four or five times the usual amount for a single meal.

Therefore, based on three meals a day, this food would cost at least 5 copper coins per pound.

The 30 tons of smoked meat and venison were worth as much as 60 gold crowns.

It may not seem like much, but the territory can produce a continuous supply. The territory currently has tens of thousands of cattle and sheep of various kinds, and if we calculate based on an average weight of 200 jin (approximately 100 catties), this wealth amounts to over 2000 gold crowns. And it can provide a steady stream of supplies to the dwarves.

Originally, this transaction between their dwarf kingdoms wasn't supposed to be completed in one go; otherwise, they wouldn't have been able to carry all that food in one trip.

Su Li turned to Lord Bairga and asked, "Your Excellency Ambassador, what do you think of my ranch steward's proposal? We will supply you with beef, mutton, and various meats at this price later."

Byrga clicked his tongue and said, “My big friend, when I came down from the Crimson Plateau, I found that it was all vast pastures. You need to quickly expand the scale of the livestock industry. The Imperial territory of Granson in the northern Gray Mountains is famous for its cattle. There are tens of thousands of cattle on a single pasture. The entire territory sells tens of thousands of tons of beef every year.”

“Your territory has this unique advantage, which allows you to further increase the scale of your cattle and sheep farming.”

After hearing this, Su Li couldn't help but gasp. This Granson Territory was undoubtedly the development target of the Black Forest Territory.

Their territory was somewhat similar to that of the Song Dynasty, except that the Song Dynasty mainly raised sheep, while they mainly raised cattle. It is said that during festivals in the Song Dynasty, more than 3000 sheep were slaughtered in Kaifeng alone. Each royal pasture had more than 30000 sheep.

Su Li also hoped that the scale of cattle and sheep in his territory could expand rapidly, otherwise a mere 10000 cattle and sheep would not be enough to feed a large city for 3 days.

Edmund quickly assured him, "My lord, please rest assured that once we have established our ranch in the north, we will devote all our efforts to breeding and developing our livestock."

"Moreover, with the increase in the number of knight families and shepherds in the territory, the scale of our grazing will increase significantly. If we cannot fully realize this deal with your noble ranches alone, we can actually purchase cattle and sheep from the territory, or open this trade to the people of the territory."

Dean Oliver would certainly not agree to opening it up to the citizens.

This iron-fisted prime minister, more accustomed to a big government model, will certainly have his provincial council in control of this important transaction with the dwarves.

However, what Edmund said was indeed an inspiration for Su Li. As the territory expanded westward and its area increased, many new strongholds would inevitably form. With vast land and a sparse population, grazing was undoubtedly an excellent option. Especially this year's relatively stable climate would produce a large number of livestock. Encouraging the people to trade with the Gray Mountain Dwarves would clearly further increase the territory's wealth and tax revenue.

However, agriculture remains very important. After all, compared to the instability and fragility of grazing, agricultural production is undoubtedly more stable, which is the most important reason why Su Li is obsessed with farming.

Bairga added, "However, I see that agriculture in your territory is thriving. Our kingdom can also purchase a batch of grains and cereals from your territory. After all, meat, grains, and fruits are all things that we dwarves need."

“There’s no problem with that,” Su Li said decisively. “With the summer harvest coming, the scale of agriculture in our territory will further increase. We don’t expect to encounter any major disasters this year, and agricultural output will definitely reach a new high, allowing us to export more grain to you.”

Although the spring harvest is mostly given to the Grayrock Clan, in the long run, the location of the territory's border granaries will become increasingly stable.

Not only is the size of Bjørn Bay expanding, but more importantly, the territory's area and population are increasing. More and more villages and strongholds are being incorporated into Marshal Erstein's territory, and the scale of farmland is growing day by day. Grain production is bound to reach new highs.

These grains need to find a market. Su Li also needs to plan ahead, since the tariff blockade imposed by Blue Mirror Territory seems inevitable.

Only an idiot would act without a plan in this situation and wait to be passively attacked.

If the westward trade routes are cut off this month, then the development of eastward and northward trade routes is obviously of paramount importance, as it concerns the economic lifeline of the territory.

After conquering Blue Mirror Territory, the scale of food production will likely reach an unprecedented level.

So Su Li continued, “Our territory aspires to be the granary of the entire border, and your kingdom is open to trade with us. Even if our grain is insufficient to pay for the trade agreements, we will make up the deficit with gold and gold coins. Therefore, I expect you dwarves to provide more eagles, at least 12 eagles per year. Of course, there is no upper limit to this number; no matter how many you provide, we will buy them all, even if it means paying in gold.”

Bairga laughed heartily, then extended his hand to Su Li: "Haha, I like your generosity, big guy, and of course I like these glittering gold coins. So, the agreement is settled!"

(End of this chapter)