Is this cheat code from Bika? Just do it!

“Lord Link, I have twenty-two silver coins here.” Jin Meiting took out a banknote from her backpack and said softly, a hint of determination in her eyes. “I will buy fewer lollipops.” In her opinion, for the sake of Winter City’s finances, it was nothing for her to eat fewer lollipops.

“Lord Link, I also have some silver coins here.” The maid Della tucked her hair behind her ear, revealing a sweet and lovely face, and said softly, “I can borrow some from my father.” Della was born into an ordinary family, but her father was a kind and upright man, and she believed that her father would be willing to help Winterfell overcome its difficulties.

"I...I've spent it all." Mizuki Yukikaze scratched her cheek sheepishly, a blush rising on her face like a beautiful sunset. She'd spent all her money on food; she was a gluttonous girl with a deep interest in all kinds of delicacies. In this cold winter, a steaming hot meal was the greatest pleasure for her.

“I can take on hunting missions.” Rael and his companions produced military knives in their hands, the knives gleaming coldly in the lamplight. “I haven’t fought in a long time; this is a good opportunity to get some exercise.” Rael was a brave and fearless warrior, eager to prove his strength in battle. He believed that by taking on hunting missions, he could not only earn some gold for Winter City but also hone his combat skills.

“I can too.” Swift reached behind him instinctively, only to grab empty air. He paused, then realized he wasn’t carrying his sword. Swift was an agile and resourceful swordsman, his swordsmanship superb, earning him a high reputation in the Winter City army. Although he wasn’t carrying a sword, his eyes still revealed confidence and determination, as if given a sword, he could defeat any enemy.

"Alright, we're not starving anymore." Link turned around, a gentle smile on his face, a smile as warm as the winter sun, warming everyone's hearts. He said softly, "Keep your allowance; you can buy things you like later." In his view, these people had already contributed a lot to Winter City, and their allowance should be theirs to manage, not affected by the city's financial problems.

The financial situation was roughly as he had predicted; in fact, he had moved too fast, causing the economy to lag behind. He was determined to develop Winter City rapidly into a prosperous city, and therefore made large-scale investments and constructions in various aspects. However, he had not fully considered the significant impact that the winter's depression would have on the economy—no, it should be said that winter was far more desolate than he had anticipated.

In reality, Winterfell's finances would be perfectly balanced without the purchase of warhorses. The importance of warhorses to an army is self-evident; they not only enhance troop mobility but also play a crucial role in combat. However, the purchase of warhorses is indispensable, as it relates to Winterfell's military development. In this competitive and challenging world, without a strong army, Winterfell cannot guarantee its security and interests.

“But…” Jin Meiting opened her mouth anxiously, wanting to say something more, but was interrupted softly by Link, “Have you forgotten the income of the Oak Tavern?”

"Huh?" Jin Meiting paused for a moment, then quickly rummaged through the unprocessed government documents. Her fingers moved rapidly across the files, a hint of urgency in her eyes. She soon found the Oak Tavern's income and expenditure report, which had only been delivered today.

"How's it going? How's the revenue?" Link asked calmly, a hint of anticipation in his eyes. Since adding vegetables to the Oak Tavern, sales figures haven't been reported yet. Vegetables are a new dish recently introduced in Winterfell City; they're nutritious, refreshing, and very popular. Link hopes the Oak Tavern can generate extra revenue for the city through vegetable sales.

"This...how is this possible?" Jin Meiting's eyes widened, filled with disbelief. She couldn't help but exclaim, "Seven gold coins in three days!" In her opinion, this number was simply astonishing. She had originally thought that the Oak Tavern would be quiet in winter, but she never expected it to achieve such good results.

"Oh? So many?" Link was also surprised, a look of delight appearing on his face. It seemed there were quite a few merchants residing in Winterfell, and they were even willing to spend money on food and drink. In this cold winter, after a busy day, the merchants all hoped to find a warm and comfortable place to relax, and the Oak Tavern perfectly met their needs. Moreover, the introduction of the new vegetable dish had piqued their curiosity, making them willing to spend gold coins to try it.

"Lord Link, at this rate, the sales from the Oak Tavern alone will be enough to pay a tenth of the workers' wages," Jin Meiting said excitedly, her face beaming with joy. This was undoubtedly good news for Winterfell, which was currently facing financial difficulties.

“Indeed.” Link nodded; this was good news. He said to Jin Meiting, “Calculate whether the remaining gold coins, after deducting the gold coins spent on purchasing warhorses, can sustain us until the capital’s revenue arrives.” He knew very well that although the Oak Tavern’s revenue had brought a glimmer of hope to the city, the current financial situation was still far from optimistic, and further precise calculations were needed to formulate a reasonable response strategy.

"Yes." Jin Meiting nodded obediently, pulled out a piece of paper, and quickly began to calculate. Her fingers moved rapidly across the paper, her eyes focused and serious, as if the whole world consisted only of her and these numbers.

The study fell silent, save for the scratching of Jin Meiting's pen on paper and the howling of the cold wind outside. Link sat down at the desk, resting his chin on his hand in deep thought. He had no prior experience managing a territory or city; he was a novice, and inevitably, some situations were overlooked. Fortunately, he hadn't discovered them too late, and he still had time to adjust his strategies and solve the current problems.

“Lord Link, based on the current financial situation, we can barely hold on until next spring. However, if Sophia’s fleet cannot reach Winter City by the estimated time, then we will be in financial trouble.” After a while, Jin Meiting said softly, her voice revealing a hint of worry.

"As long as they can sell their goods in the capital, that's fine. Whether they arrive on time is not a concern." Link smiled mysteriously, his eyes revealing confidence and composure.

He also had something else: a hot air balloon! It was a magical invention that allowed people to fly in the air like birds.

If all else fails, we can just fly to the capital in a hot air balloon and bring back the gold coins first.

213. Planning

The atmosphere in the large conference room was somewhat heavy, like the pressure before a storm. A huge crystal chandelier cast a soft yet unyielding light, reflecting off the dark conference table and the serious faces of the attendees. The paintings on the walls, depicting the former glory of Winterfell, now appeared somewhat dim and lifeless.

Lord Link leaned back slightly in his specially made chair, inlaid with ornate gold trim, a testament to his distinguished status. His fingers tapped lightly on the table, the rhythm unhurried, as if he were pondering something important. Suddenly, he broke the silence, uttering, "Whether I can return to Winterfell on time is not under consideration."

These words were like a boulder thrown into a calm lake, creating ripples. Everyone present was stunned, as if frozen in place, their bodies stiffening instantly, their eyes filled with doubt and confusion. They looked at each other, trying to find answers in each other's eyes. What did this mean? Did Lord Link have other ways to generate revenue and not care at all whether the fleet would return on time? The crowd exchanged bewildered glances, each speculating in their own mind, and an uneasy atmosphere filled the meeting room.

Jin Meiting broke the silence first, her posture upright, like a pine tree in the cold winter, resilient and steadfast. Her face was serious, her gaze fixed on Link, her eyes revealing deep worry. She said, “Lord Link, if the fleet from the capital cannot return to Winterfell on time, we will be in deep trouble. Without money to pay the workers' wages, the consequences are unimaginable.” Her voice was steady and firm, carrying an undeniable concern; each word struck like a heavy hammer against everyone's hearts.

Indeed, what she said was true. Trade between Winterfell and the capital relied primarily on water transport. However, the waterways were a journey fraught with unknowns and dangers. The weather was unpredictable; sometimes howling winds roared like angry beasts, whipping the sea into turmoil; sometimes torrential rain poured down like a burst dam, obscuring visibility; sometimes thick fog blanketed the world, shrouding ships in mystery and disorienting them. These severe weather conditions could strike at any moment, hindering navigation as if gripped tightly by an invisible hand, unable to move forward.

Moreover, the market situation in the capital is unpredictable. If goods don't sell well in the capital, unsold stock will weigh heavily on the fleet, severely affecting its return time. If the fleet is delayed by even half a month, Winterfell will resemble a pond about to dry up, and a financial crisis will follow. Workers who don't receive their wages will inevitably become dissatisfied, their work enthusiasm will plummet, and they will operate slowly like machines without power. This could even trigger serious incidents such as strikes, which would greatly affect the normal operation of the entire Winterfell. The streets might become deserted, shops might close, and people's lives would descend into chaos.

Not to mention that next spring, Lord Link has grand plans. He intends to purchase many draft horses to expand production and transportation, further boosting Winterfell's economy. Moreover, after a winter's rest, the workers will be back at work in the spring, the entire city working for Lord Link. The wages will be astonishingly high, enough to terrify anyone who hears of them. Imagine so many coins piled up like a small mountain; how could they possibly be paid without the revenue from the timely return of the fleet?

Link, however, maintained a relaxed smile, as if everything was under his control. He waved his hand lightly and said, "Don't worry, I'll have a way. Besides, the fleet hasn't even set off yet, how do you know it won't be on time? Everything is still uncertain, why worry so much?" His tone was casual, as if he were discussing a trivial matter.

In truth, Link had his own plans, but since the hot air balloon hadn't been built yet, even if he shared his ideas, it would be difficult to convince others. He envisioned the hot air balloon in his mind—a huge gasbag, like an inflating balloon, carrying the dream of flying into the sky. He imagined the hot air balloon soaring through the heavens, reaching the capital within days—how awe-inspiring that would be! Imagine the magnificent scene when the hot air balloon appeared in the sky, people gazing up in awe of this amazing invention.

However, hot air ballooning is also fraught with danger. The weather in the sky is unpredictable, like a capricious child. If a strong wind comes, the hot air balloon is like a helpless leaf, swaying precariously in the gale, with no guarantee of where it will be blown. This relies entirely on the pilot's skill in sensing the wind and other operational techniques. For example, when the wind direction is unfavorable, the pilot must immediately descend to utilize low-altitude gravity and other factors to mitigate the risk of being blown off course. Moreover, fuel is also a major issue. Hot air balloons need sufficient fuel to sustain flight, and if fuel runs out, they may face the danger of crashing, like a kite with a broken string falling from the sky.

Personnel, fuel, and other resources all require countless trials before practical use. Deploying hot air balloons is only a last resort, a means to prevent financial crisis. Only as a last resort will hot air balloons be sent to the capital to seek a glimmer of hope. Like someone groping in the dark, the hot air balloon is the only light.

In fact, with the help of the bird-folk orcs, the danger would be reduced by fifty percent. The bird-folk orcs possess an exceptional sense of direction; they act like navigators in the sky, easily resolving directional issues during hot air balloon flight. When there is wind or the wind direction is favorable, the hot air balloon relies on its own power to move forward; when there is no wind, the bird-folk orcs pull the balloon to ensure it doesn't deviate from its course. They are like a group of loyal companions, safeguarding the safe flight of the hot air balloon.

After all, a hot air balloon can carry many times more weight than a single bird-orc, and it can be used for certain special trades, such as transporting perfume. Perfume is a precious commodity in Winterfell, its unique and captivating scent serving as a calling card for the city. Extreme care is required during transport, and a hot air balloon can provide a relatively stable environment, reducing damage during transit. Imagine, when the perfume arrives safely at its destination, the bottle is opened, and the rich aroma fills the air, attracting countless eyes.

A flicker of worry crossed Jin Meiting's eyes. She frowned slightly and said, "But... I'm afraid of what might happen... The money on that shipment isn't a small amount. I'm worried it might be embezzled, or that the fleet might encounter problems en route. If the ships are attacked by pirates or sink due to reefs, we'll lose everything." Her voice trembled slightly, clearly indicating she was considering the worst-case scenario. Pirates are like demons of the sea; they are ruthless and cunning, specializing in robbing passing ships and stealing their valuables. And reefs are like underwater killers; a moment's carelessness, and the ship will collide with them and be smashed to pieces.

Link chuckled reassuringly, "Don't worry, Solo isn't short-sighted." He understood Jin Meiting's concerns. The Solo family was responsible for the fleet's operations and cargo transportation. If they became greedy and embezzled the gold coins, Winterfell would suffer enormous losses. But if the Solo family wasn't an idiot, they wouldn't act so short-sightedly. Is it better to earn gold coins now or later? Anyone with a modicum of common sense would make the right choice. After all, relationships take time to cultivate. As long as they had the unique product of perfume, the Solo family would rely on Link. The perfume was in high demand and short supply, bringing the Solo family substantial profits; they wouldn't easily give up this money-making opportunity. Like a cash cow, why would they cut it down?

At this moment, Xuefeng and the others, chin in hand, muttered to themselves, "If only there were an auction, I could rob those wealthy, unscrupulous merchants. Hehe, I could take all their money and solve our financial crisis." A cunning glint shone in their eyes, as if they could already see the merchants obediently handing over their coins. They imagined themselves dressed in black camouflage, moving through the darkness, stealing the merchants' wealth without a trace, like a group of mysterious knight-errant.

"Huh? That's right!" Jin Meiting's brown eyes lit up like stars twinkling in the night sky. She exclaimed with delight, "Lord Link, we can hold an auction and invite those merchants to participate! Although Winter City isn't as prosperous as the capital, it still has many powerful merchants who must have a lot of money." Her voice was full of excitement, as if she could already see the bustling scene of the auction. Imagine, at the auction, merchants bidding against each other, money flowing into Winter City's coffers like water—how wonderful that would be!

Xuefeng and the others' eyes lit up slightly, as if they had found new hope. They quickly said, "I can put all my cola up for auction. I've been saving my cola for a long time; I already have four cans. I don't drink it when others are drinking it, just to save it for a crucial moment." Xuefeng said proudly, as if those four cans of cola were her treasures. She imagined her cola causing a sensation at the auction, with merchants willing to pay high prices to get it; the scene would certainly be spectacular.

“Perfume can be auctioned,” Della added, slapping her forehead in exasperation. “I think I only have one can of cola left. I took it home for my parents to try, and they thought the taste was quite peculiar. This last can was recently given to me by Lord Link.” A hint of reluctance lingered in her voice, as if that can of cola held a precious memory. However, the thought of the perfume being auctioned made her eyes harden. Perfume was the pride of Winterfell; it would surely be popular with merchants.

“I have a can too!” Bernice shouted, raising her hand, her eyes filled with joy and her face beaming with pride. “I can finally contribute! It’s just one can of Coke, but it’s a token of my appreciation.” Her voice was clear and melodious, full of sincerity. She imagined her Coke bringing wealth to Winterfell at the auction, and her heart was filled with a sense of accomplishment.

Link quickly waved his hand with a wry smile and said, "Stop! With you all making such a fuss, I feel like I'm about to go bankrupt! However, your foresight is commendable. Worrying about things that haven't happened yet—that's in line with my style." His smile held a hint of helplessness, but mostly admiration for everyone. In this world full of uncertainty, being prepared is extremely important.

Actually, the idea of ​​holding this auction is worth considering, but instead of holding it in Winterfell, we should hold it in another city. Winterfell's commercial scale is relatively small, and the merchants' resources are limited. Holding an auction here might not attract many wealthy buyers, and the auction results wouldn't be ideal. It's like fishing in a small pond; it's unlikely to catch a big fish. Other cities, on the other hand, are like a vast ocean, offering more opportunities and wealth.

“Lord Link? Isn’t this suggestion good?” Jin Meiting blinked her brown eyes and said softly, a hint of disappointment in her eyes. “There are quite a few merchants in Winter City, and they must have a lot of money. I thought this method would work.” Her voice carried a hint of grievance, as if her efforts had not been recognized. She had originally thought that holding an auction would be a good solution, but she hadn’t expected Lord Link to have a different idea.

Link nodded, then shook his head, and said softly, "Alright! But not now. Those merchants in Winterfell don't have much money on hand. Besides, they'll save their money for next spring when they go trading; they won't be willing to spend it on luxury goods. An auction can only be held next year." His tone was calm and firm, his eyes revealing a thoughtful glint. He knew that timing was crucial, and now was not a good time to hold an auction.

Next year, merchants will surely have coins after their trade. After a year of operation, their businesses will have grown, and their funds will be more abundant. Moreover, many wealthy merchants will undoubtedly be drawn to Winterfell, with its unique goods and potential market; far-sighted merchants will see the business opportunities there. That will be the perfect time to hold an auction, attracting more buyers and fetching higher prices. Like a grand banquet, it must be held at the most opportune moment to allow guests to fully enjoy themselves.

"Huh? It won't work?" Jin Meiting was stunned, then lowered her head in dejection, her heart filled with helplessness. This method wouldn't work either. Did they really have to wait for the fleet to return and bring back the profits? What if something went wrong with the fleet? She prayed silently, "Please, please, nothing bad should happen. Lord Link has already tried his best. I pray that Lord Link will safely get through the winter." Her eyes were filled with worry, as if she could already see Winterfell in dire straits.

“Well, it’s not the time to hold an auction yet,” Link shook his head, raising an eyebrow. “However, we can attend auctions. Other cities may hold auctions regularly, which bring together merchants from all over and rare items. Perhaps we can find a way to solve our financial crisis there.” His voice was full of hope, as if he had found a glimmer of light in the darkness.

"Huh? Attending an auction?" Jin Meiting, Rael and the others, Della, and Mizuki Yukikaze exclaimed in surprise. This was something they hadn't expected. They had only planned to hold the auction in Winter City, but they hadn't anticipated that Lord Link would suggest attending one. Their eyes were filled with astonishment and curiosity, as if a new door had been opened for them.

“But, Lord Link, we don’t know where there are auctions,” Della said softly. She had already considered this. They knew nothing about auctions in other cities, where they were held, or the rules and procedures. They were like a group of lost children, not knowing which way to go.

Link calmly replied, "We'll have to ask Sophia and the others. Perhaps they know something about the auction. They travel a lot, dealing with merchants from all over, and might have heard some news about it." His tone was full of trust, believing that Sophia and the others could provide useful information. Like searching for a lighthouse in the darkness, Sophia and the others were that lighthouse, guiding Winterfell.

Link already had a plan in mind for attending the auction. He would auction off some glassware he had won in the raffle, or some unique ceramic pieces. In his opinion, these items weren't particularly useful. While the glassware was exquisite, there wasn't a large-scale market demand for it in Winterfell; the unique ceramics were primarily decorative. However, in other cities, these items might become rare treasures, sought after by merchants. They were like gold buried in the sand, waiting to be discovered.

Imagine this: at the auction, the glassware glitters under the lights, the unique ceramics exude their distinctive charm, and merchants, captivated by their beauty, eagerly bid. They'll surely rake in a large sum of gold, ensuring that even if the fleet's arrival is delayed next year, there will be no financial stagnation. With this extra income, Winterfell can weather the storm and continue its steady development.

214. Shipbuilding

"Bang bang bang..."

Suddenly, there was a rapid knocking on the study door. The rhythmic sound echoed in the quiet room like drumbeats, one after another, carrying an impatient tone, as if the knocker was eager to convey some important message. Outside, a maid's clear yet respectful voice called out, "Your Highness! Mr. Wales, Miss Sophia, and Miss Lydia request an audience." Her voice was as melodious as a silver bell, yet carried just the right amount of solemnity.

Inside the study, Link was sitting with several advisors around a large desk. The desk was piled high with various documents and maps; the documents, their pages yellowed and covered in dense handwriting, recorded the city's affairs, both large and small; the maps, vibrant in color, depicted the geography surrounding Winterfell, clearly marking mountains, rivers, and towns. They sometimes frowned, sometimes discussed in hushed tones, seemingly racking their brains to devise solutions to the city's problems.

Upon hearing the maid's announcement, Link and everyone in the study paused slightly, the previously lively discussion abruptly ceasing, a quiet atmosphere instantly filling the air. Just moments before, Link had been whispering with his advisors about Sophia and the others, speculating about their purpose for coming. Unexpectedly, they had arrived now; it was as if fate had deliberately arranged this encounter.

But who was this Welshman? Link pondered to himself, raising an eyebrow slightly, a flicker of doubt in his eyes—a doubt as fleeting as a shooting star across the night sky, yet leaving a mark on his heart. Then, he said softly, "Come in." His voice was gentle yet steady, carrying an air of quiet authority.

"Creak!" With the sound of the hinges turning, the study door was slowly pushed open. The sound was somewhat old, as if telling the story of the vicissitudes of time. A maid stood to the side, bowing slightly, her face bearing a polite smile, a smile as warm and welcoming as the spring sunshine. Three figures appeared in the doorway: Sophia and Lydia, their figures graceful, like willow branches swaying in the spring breeze, exuding an extraordinary air. Their steps were light, as if they were walking on clouds. Beside them stood a middle-aged man with tanned skin, slightly thin, his back slightly hunched, as if the burdens of life had bent his spine. His face carried a somewhat restrained expression, his eyes revealing a hint of tension and unease; this must be Wales.

"Please come in." The maid smiled and gestured, her voice soft and melodious, like a babbling brook.

Lydia nodded slightly and stepped into the study first. When her gaze fell upon Link, her golden eyes instantly became somewhat unnatural, and a blush unconsciously rose to her cheeks, like the sunset. Several embarrassing scenes involuntarily surfaced in her mind. Besides the usual three things—Link seeing her naked, touching her breasts, and touching her forehead—she had recently imagined a scene of eloping. She envisioned herself and Link holding hands, running in the afterglow of the setting sun, escaping the hustle and bustle of the world, to a place where only the two of them could go. After all, she was just a naive seventeen-year-old girl, at an age full of fantasies, and untouched by the information age. Her mind was filled with thoughts of love and romance, those romantic scenarios playing out in her mind like a movie.

"Cough cough cough..." Sophia seemed to notice Lydia's unusual behavior. She coughed lightly, the sound crisp and clear, like an alarm bell, trying to bring Lydia back to her senses. Then she quietly poked Lydia's butt, muttering to herself: What's this silly girl daydreaming about now? I hope she doesn't embarrass herself in front of Link.

"..." Lydia snapped out of her daze, quickly trying to calm herself down. She realized she was truly possessed; the scenes from the novels she'd read kept overlapping with reality, making it hard for her to distinguish between fantasy and reality. She shook her head vigorously, trying to banish those unrealistic fantasies from her mind.

"May I ask what brings you all here?" Link broke the silence first, a gentle smile on his face as he looked at the three. His smile was like a spring breeze, making them feel incredibly comfortable and at ease. The three had remained silent since entering, which piqued his curiosity about their purpose, filling him with both doubt and anticipation.

"Ahem! Lord Link, our apologies." Sophia quickly stepped forward and gracefully performed a noble curtsy. Her movements were precise and skillful, exuding aristocratic elegance. Her waist was slightly bent, her hands elegantly folded in front of her, and her eyes revealed respect and humility.

Lydia didn't need to bow, but for some reason, seeing Sophia bow, she subconsciously followed suit with a noble's curtsy. This action startled everyone present, and they all looked at her with surprise. A hint of panic appeared on Lydia's face; she hadn't expected her subconscious action to cause such a strong reaction.

"Uh..." Lydia realized what was happening and a hint of embarrassment crossed her face. She quickly said, "Thank you, Lord Link, for curing my illness." Her voice was a little stammering, and a blush rose on her face, making her look even more adorable.

"It was nothing," Link nodded casually, his face always bearing a gentle smile that gave off a friendly and approachable feeling. That smile was like the warm sun in winter, warming everyone's heart. He gestured for the three to sit down, his movements natural and generous, like a hospitable host.

“Your Excellency Link, I’m here today at your request. I’ve already selected fifteen shipwrights.” Sophia spoke eagerly as soon as she sat down, her voice soft and melodious, like the song of a nightingale. “This gentleman beside me, Mr. Wales, is the best shipbuilder in my fleet. He has worked in the large shipyard and has extensive shipbuilding experience.” As she spoke, she pointed to Wales, her eyes filled with trust and pride.

"Oh?" Link's eyes lit up as he carefully examined Wales. Wales' skin was dark and shiny, the marks of years of sun exposure, like a layer of hard armor. His hands were rough and calloused, like medals of age, bearing witness to his past hard work and dedication. Clearly, he had frequently engaged in manual labor to have such marks.

"Then, I'd like to ask Mr. Wales, what do you think are the difficulties in building a fifty-meter-long ship?" Link asked calmly and attentively, his hands clasped under his chin. His eyes revealed a thirst for knowledge and anticipation for building the massive ship, as if he could already see it sailing the seas. He was filled with excitement about building the ship and wanted to hear the expert's opinion to better plan and implement the project.

“This…” Wales paused, surprised that Link would suddenly ask such a question. He frowned slightly and began to ponder. Scenes from his time working in the large shipyard flashed through his mind, those failed construction experiences replaying before his eyes like a movie. After a while, he slowly raised his head, a hint of seriousness in his eyes, and said, “Reporting to the Lord, there are three problems with the fifty-meter-long ship.” His voice was somewhat low, as if carrying a trace of helplessness and regret.

“Oh? Please go ahead.” A glint flashed in Link’s dark eyes. He leaned forward slightly, showing keen interest in Welsh’s answer. His hands unconsciously clenched, as if nervous about the answer he was about to hear.

"The reason large ships haven't become widespread, besides their high cost, is also due to technical issues." A hint of sadness flashed in Wales' eyes, as if recalling unpleasant experiences. His gaze revealed a sense of loss and helplessness, as if those failures were a permanent wound in his heart. He said earnestly, "The construction of large ships has never been ideal. In the large shipyard I used to work in, they had already built five large ships in an effort to overcome the structural problems. Everyone was full of expectations during the construction of those ships, believing they would succeed. The workers toiled day and night, the shipyard was brightly lit, and everyone was full of confidence and enthusiasm. But without exception, they all fell apart after a short time at sea. Every time I saw the ships I had worked so hard to build destroyed like that, it really hurt." As Wales spoke, a painful expression appeared on his face. He had also participated in the construction of those five large ships, pouring his heart and soul into each one. He remembered the position of every screw, the way every plank was joined; those ships were like his children. However, the large ships consumed too many gold coins, causing the shipyard's funding chain to break down and ultimately leading to its bankruptcy. Everyone was laid off, and he lost his job as a result. He wandered around, searching for a place where he could continue to realize his dream of building large ships.

“Besides technology, there’s the issue of money. Building a 50-meter ship requires constant experimentation, and each attempt demands a huge investment. If even one ship can sail for ten days without falling apart, it’s considered a success. But this process is fraught with uncertainty, and many people are unwilling to take the risk.” Wales paused, then continued, his voice heavy, as if burdened by immense pressure. “The most crucial element in shipbuilding is the timber. Those large shipyards are usually located by the sea, and transporting suitable timber requires traveling from very far away. Not only are transportation costs high, but good timber is also becoming increasingly difficult to find, which is the biggest reason why shipbuilding is so expensive. Sometimes, to find a suitable piece of timber, we have to cross mountains and travel long distances. Even if we find it, we might not be able to bring it back smoothly; we might encounter various dangers and difficulties along the way.” Wales shook his head helplessly, his eyes revealing a sense of resignation to reality and uncertainty about the future.

Link raised an eyebrow, carefully considering Wales' words. He summarized it into two points: funding and blueprints/technology. Add to that the shipwright before him with his extensive shipbuilding experience, and he felt his large ship wouldn't be out of the water for long. He secretly calculated that once the issues of funding and blueprints/technology were resolved, building a large ship wouldn't be difficult. He could almost see the harbor of Winterfell filled with magnificent ships, their sails billowing, sailing into the distance, bringing endless wealth and glory to Winterfell.

Wales pursed his lips, looking at Link with a hint of nervousness. His greatest wish was to rebuild his large ship, even if it meant spending less money. He had dreamt countless times of his own magnificent ship sailing the seas, the spectacular sight thrilling him. Unfortunately, few shipyards would undertake such a loss-making venture; most built ships only ten or twenty meters long because they were cheaper, less risky, and offered quicker returns. The shipyard owners only cared about immediate profits and were unwilling to risk building large ships, which left Wales feeling deeply disappointed and helpless.

“Then, Mr. Wales, welcome to Winter City,” Link said with a light laugh, his smile brimming with confidence and sincerity. That smile, like a bright lighthouse, guided Wales in his direction. “I believe that with your help, we will surely be able to build a magnificent ship.”

"Ah? Lord City Lord, are you really going to build a huge ship? A fifty-meter ship?" Wales asked nervously, his eyes filled with anticipation and unease. His hands were unconsciously rubbing together, and his heart was pounding. If it weren't for building a huge ship, he probably wouldn't have agreed. He would rather stay in the fleet and travel with the ships, searching for a shipyard willing to build a large ship and realize his dream. He had dedicated his life to shipbuilding, and building large ships was his lifelong pursuit; he didn't want to give up this opportunity.

“Of course, otherwise why would I open a shipyard?” Link countered, his tone firm and decisive. “Since I’ve decided to build a large ship, I will go all out. No matter how great the difficulties and challenges, I will not back down.” With that, Link opened a drawer and took out a thick stack of blueprints. These blueprints were the result of considerable time and effort he had spent searching for ship information in the library, and then organizing and revising them to create the current blueprints for building the large ship. He had consulted countless books and materials in the library and consulted many experts and scholars before completing these blueprints. He picked up the top three sheets and handed them to Wales, saying, “These are the blueprints for the large ship I’m going to build. You can take a look.” His eyes revealed confidence and expectation, hoping Wales would approve of the blueprints.

"Huh?" Wales was stunned. He hadn't expected Link to already have the blueprints. He quickly stepped forward, respectfully took the blueprints with both hands, and then examined them carefully. His eyes were fixed on the blueprints, as if trying to see every detail clearly. As his gaze moved across the blueprints, his expression grew increasingly astonished, his eyes almost popping out of their sockets. His mouth opened slightly, as if he wanted to say something, but then he was speechless for a moment.

“How is this possible? How come I never thought of that? Bulkhead design? Mainframe…” Wales muttered, pulling at his hair, a look of frustration mixed with sudden realization. He had worked in a large shipyard and participated in the construction of many large ships, but he had never considered such a design. This bulkhead design could effectively improve the stability and safety of a large ship; even if one compartment flooded, it wouldn't affect other compartments, and the ship could still remain afloat. The mainframe design, on the other hand, would make the ship more robust and durable, able to withstand greater winds and waves. He felt as if a new door had opened before him, filled with endless possibilities.

"So? Can you build a ship this big?" Link's lips curled up as he looked at Wales' astonished expression, his heart filled with confidence. He believed his design was feasible and that Wales had the ability to make it a reality.

“Yes, of course.” Wales nodded vigorously, his eyes filled with excitement and anticipation. With such blueprints for a large ship, as long as he had the people and the timber, he could build ten of them. He could almost see the magnificent ship he had built sailing the seas, and his heart was filled with a sense of accomplishment. He imagined himself standing on the deck of the ship, facing the sea breeze, directing his crew—how majestic and proud that would be!

“Very good. As long as you can build the first big ship, I’ll give you a house.” Link said earnestly, his tone full of promise and encouragement. “There will be even bigger ships to build in the future; this is just the beginning.” He hoped that this reward would motivate Wales to work harder, while also expressing his trust and respect for him.

“Yes!” Wales replied respectfully, his heart filled with joy and anticipation. Building a larger ship had always been his dream, and now he finally had the opportunity to realize it. He felt that his life had reached a new turning point, and he would embark on a new journey in Winterhold.

"Jin Meiting, have Buff arrange accommodations for Mr. Wales and the others," Link instructed, turning to Jin Meiting who stood to the side. His voice was concise, clear, and full of authority.

“Okay,” Jin Meiting nodded in response, a gentle smile on her face. She turned and left the study to make the necessary arrangements.

"As for the timber, I'll arrange for someone to take you to select the wood you think is most suitable for shipbuilding," Link said calmly, his gaze fixed on the window, as if he could already see the lush trees of the Forbidden Mountains. "There are so many kinds of trees in the Forbidden Mountains, many of which don't even exist on Earth. Surely there's some suitable for shipbuilding. I don't know much about this stuff, and I don't want to worry about it. I'll leave it to someone who knows." He trusted Wales' expertise and believed he could select the most suitable timber for shipbuilding.

"Yes!" Wales smiled憨厚ly, feeling as if he had arrived in Winter City as if in paradise. The owners here wouldn't impose many restrictions on him and would respect his opinions and ideas, which was exactly what he liked. He remembered the previous shipyard owner, who knew absolutely nothing about building large ships yet still tried to boss him around. Most importantly, to save money, he used inferior timber, making it impossible for the ships not to collapse. The shipyard owner had thrown himself into building large ships simply because he heard they could sell for a lot of money, even canceling orders for other vessels, which was why the shipyard went bankrupt so quickly. He didn't want to experience that pain and failure again. He hoped to realize his dreams in Winter City and create his own glory.

215. Trade Fair

With a crisp, pleasant click, the heavy, ancient door of the study was gently closed by the maid with just the right amount of force. Led by the maid's respectful demeanor, Wales stepped steadily and slowly out of the castle's imposing stone gates, which stood like a colossal beast. Sunlight streamed in, illuminating his tall, imposing figure. His silhouette gradually disappeared down the winding path leading to the outside world, flanked by lush trees whose branches swayed gently in the breeze, as if bidding him farewell. There, waiting solemnly, were already a group of people, ready to guide Wales to the enigmatic and legendary Lord Buff.

The atmosphere in the study was subtly quiet. Sophia and Lydia exchanged glances, a lingering sense of surprise in their bright eyes. They had just witnessed a seemingly ordinary yet profoundly meaningful conversation between Link and Wales. Link's words seemed to conceal countless secrets, and Wales's focused expression—sometimes lost in thought, sometimes nodding—filled the two ladies with curiosity and doubt. Only when Wales's figure completely disappeared from sight did they snap out of their reverie, as if returning to reality from a mysterious dream.

"Lord City Lord, you...you really can build a ship fifty meters long?" Sophia broke the slightly heavy silence first, her voice trembling with disbelief, echoing softly in the quiet study. In her past understanding, such a massive ship was almost beyond the limits of human construction capabilities. She imagined that fifty-meter-long ship, like a giant dragon sailing the sea—what a magnificent yet unattainable sight that would be.

Link smiled slightly, a smile as warm and confident as the spring sunshine. His eyes shone with confidence, as if they held boundless wisdom and strength. "Yes, with detailed blueprints and a group of highly skilled shipbuilders, a fifty-meter-long ship is not difficult for me." His tone was calm and firm, as if he were recounting something perfectly ordinary, as casually and naturally as if he were commenting on the nice weather.

However, Link had other considerations in mind. Wales, this young man who might still be naive and ignorant at this moment, his future, and even his present, would be under unseen surveillance. That design blueprint for the fifty-meter-long ship was undoubtedly a priceless treasure. It was not merely a blueprint, but the culmination of Link's wisdom and hard work; if it were leaked, the consequences would be unimaginable. Countless people might covet this blueprint, triggering a series of disputes and troubles. Therefore, he had to ensure the safety of this blueprint, without the slightest carelessness, considering every detail thoroughly, and plugging every possible loophole in advance.

"This..." Sophia was speechless for a moment upon hearing this. Reason told her that building such a massive ship was almost an impossible task. In her understanding, shipbuilding required considering numerous factors, such as the selection of timber, the structural design of the hull, and the arrangement of the sails; every step could not tolerate the slightest mistake. A fifty-meter-long ship, in particular, was far more complex than she could have imagined. But the unwavering confidence in Wales's expression just now made her begin to waver. Could it be that Link truly possessed superhuman abilities? Did he possess some unknown shipbuilding secrets?

“There’s no need to rush to believe me now,” Link seemed to see through Sophia’s doubts. His gentle smile was like a spring breeze, making people feel incredibly at ease. “Once the ship is completed, you’ll see for yourselves and understand.” He never forced anyone to believe anything, because he knew that with time, he would create more astonishing miracles. He had his own plans and goals, taking each step steadily and firmly. At that time, no further words would be needed; everything would speak for itself, and his strength and achievements would be the best proof.

Looking at Link's confident smile, Sophia's doubts gradually dissipated, replaced by a strange anticipation. She seemed to see the magnificent sight of that fifty-meter-long ship sailing through the waves, and a surge of excitement welled up within her. "Yes, I'll be watching," she said softly, her tone more resolute, her voice gentle yet full of strength.

“By the way, Miss Sophia, Miss Lydia, I happen to have something I'd like to ask you both.” Link sat up straight, his expression becoming serious, his eyes revealing focus and sincerity. “Do you know of any cities nearby that host auctions?” He had his own plans in mind; auctions were places where all sorts of rare items gathered, and perhaps he could find something useful there, or sell his current items for a good price.

"An auction?" Lydia frowned slightly upon hearing this, a thoughtful expression appearing on her delicate face. She lowered her head slightly, pondered for a moment, and then shook her head. "I don't know. I only know that there are auctions in the capital, and they are quite large, attracting many nobles and merchants. The auctions in the capital are said to be incredibly lively, with all sorts of rare and precious treasures on display, dazzling the eye." Her voice was soft and melodious, as if carrying a hint of longing.

Link nodded, his gaze shifting to Sophia, who was still deep in thought, and awaited her reply. He knew that Sophia, as the daughter of the Lord of Winterfell, was knowledgeable and experienced, and might be able to offer him some useful information. Her wisdom and insight were renowned throughout Winterfell; many difficult problems could be easily solved by her.

"May I ask, Lord Link, what type of auction would you like to attend?" Sophia finally spoke, her blue eyes fixed on Link, as if trying to glean more information from his gaze. Those eyes were like deep, mysterious lake water. "There are many types of auctions. Some specialize in auctioning slaves, where slaves are displayed and bought and sold like commodities, their fates in the hands of others; others auction large items, such as enormous sculptures and ancient architectural components, which often possess a long history and unique value; still others auction rare items like gems and weapons, the gems shimmering with captivating light, the weapons exuding a chilling aura."

In this era, the nobles had all sorts of peculiar tastes. Some were particularly fond of gemstones, buying and collecting them without hesitation, regardless of size or type. They adorned their magnificent clothing and exquisite jewelry with gemstones to showcase their wealth and status. Others preferred unusual collectibles, such as animal heads, which, after special treatment, were hung on the walls of their castles to display their majesty and unique taste. Those heads seemed to tell tales of their owners' bravery and power. Still others were obsessed with weapons, especially the knightly swords, armor, and lances crafted by dwarven masters, which they coveted. The weapons forged by these dwarven masters, with their superb skills and unique style, were all masterpieces.

These diverse and unusual hobbies have given rise to all sorts of auctions. Some auctions require an introduction to participate, with extremely high entry barriers, reserved only for the distinguished and wealthy. Others are open to the general public, and while the items may not be quite as rare, they still offer some eye-catching treasures. At these auctions, people can find all sorts of unexpected things, perhaps an ancient book or a precious painting.

“Slaves? No, no, no, I’m not going to buy or sell slaves.” Link quickly shook his head, his tone laced with disdain. He deeply abhorred the buying and selling of slaves; in his view, everyone should have the right to freedom and equality. “I have some things I want to auction off, so I’m hoping to find a large, influential auction.” He had some treasures in his heart, things that might have immense value in this other world, and he hoped to monetize them through the auction or exchange them for something more useful to him.

“I see.” Sophia breathed a sigh of relief, her brows gradually relaxing. She had worried that Link might get involved in those unethical transactions, but hearing his words, her concerns dissipated considerably. “About seven days’ journey from here, there’s a city called Eagle City, with a population of about 20,000. The city lord is Earl Mordeg. He holds an auction every month, attracting many merchants and nobles. Eagle City is a bustling place, with streets teeming with people and shops offering all kinds of goods. Lord Link can send your items there for auction.”

"Oh? A city of 20,000 people?" Link's eyes lit up. To him, this was definitely a large city. Compared to small cities with only two or three thousand people, Eagle City was undoubtedly much more prosperous and offered a greater chance of fetching high prices. In large cities, merchants and nobles gather together. They possess substantial wealth and have a greater demand for rare items. Every large city inevitably attracts many merchants and nobles. They share a common characteristic: wealth. In Link's view, these people are what are known as "nouveau riche," willing to spend lavishly if the items are of high quality. They spare no expense in pursuing unique items and higher status.

“Yes, Count Modig is an old nobleman, and his auctions attract many people every month,” Sophia said softly, her tone tinged with respect. “My father, Solo, attended a few times, but unfortunately, he didn’t buy a single item. I heard that the starting price for an item there is at least one silver coin, while the highest historical price reached one hundred and twenty gold coins. As for what exactly is auctioned, I have no idea. But I can imagine that it must be extremely precious and rare items.”

"How long until the next auction?" Link pressed, already planning how to prepare the items for the auction. He needed to carefully select the most valuable and attractive items, formulate a reasonable auction strategy, and strive to maximize his profits at the auction. Images of various items flashed through his mind, considering their value and market demand.

“About eleven more days,” Sophia replied immediately. Eleven days later would be the beginning of next month, which was still plenty of time. In those eleven days, Link would have ample time to prepare his auction items and to gain a deeper understanding of the auction proceedings.

“There’s plenty of time,” Link nodded, already having a plan in mind. He decided to attend the auction, and had even decided what he wanted to bid on. He just needed to return to Earth, order some unique and collectible items on Taobao using his phone, and he was confident he could fetch a high price. He imagined the sensation those Earth items would cause in this other world; perhaps the nobles would be curious about these novelties and bid enthusiastically.

"Is Lord Link going?" Sophia's blue eyes sparkled with curiosity. She was eager to know what items Link would put up for auction and what kind of waves those items would cause in this other world.

"Yes, I'll probably go," Link nodded and smiled. He also wanted to go out and see the beautiful scenery of this other world. Since arriving in this world, he had been busy handling various affairs most of the time and hadn't had a chance to properly appreciate its beauty. Besides, there weren't any major issues in the territory right now; Jin Meiting was handling the general administrative affairs, so he could leave without worry for a while. Jin Meiting was a smart and capable person; she could handle the daily affairs of the territory very well, allowing Link to leave without any worries.

“Then Lord Link can come with us,” Lydia suddenly said softly, though she didn’t know why she said it. A barely perceptible hint of anticipation flickered deep in her golden eyes. She couldn’t say whether she liked Link or just had a good impression of him, but undeniably, during her few days in Winter City, Link had brought her so many surprises and novelties. The novel boxing matches, the intense battles on the ring, the sweat pouring down, made her feel the heat and passion; the thrilling ice hockey, the players speeding across the ice, their sticks flashing, let her experience the perfect combination of speed and skill; the bustling market, with its crowds and dazzling array of goods, made her feel the richness and diversity of life; and the exotic oak tavern, where people laughed and chatted, enjoying fine wine, let her feel the unique charm of this other world… All of this made her feel that Link was an extraordinary genius, his thinking and creativity always astonishing.

“Okay.” Link chuckled in agreement, oblivious to the expectation in Lydia’s eyes. To him, it was just a simple invitation, devoid of deeper meaning. His mind was preoccupied with the upcoming auction and the scenery of his journey, unaware of the emotional shift deep within Lydia’s heart.

The warehouse has been slowly shipping goods these past few days. If it weren't for Sophia's fleet needing repairs and maintenance, they could probably set sail in two or three days. The fleet's repairs and maintenance are to ensure safe navigation; every ship must undergo careful inspection and maintenance, and every part must be ensured to be in perfect condition. Link silently calculated in his mind, but his face remained expressionless. He was considering how to prepare for departure during the fleet's repair period, and what various problems might arise during the journey.

Sofia turned to look at Lydia, her blue eyes fixed on hers, as if trying to read something from her gaze. This made Lydia blush slightly, and she quickly turned her head away, unable to meet Sofia's eyes. Her heart pounded involuntarily, and a blush rose to her cheeks, as beautiful as the sunset.