Chapter 117

Chapter 117

Iellie’s eyes widened as she heard those words, and she nodded her head with a curious face.

“Yes, so?”

“I think we should let people know how valuable our products are.”

Her eyes shimmered with enthusiasm, evident that she possessed an innate understanding of the fundamental principles of sales.

Sensing Iellie’s interest in his opinion, the fisherman’s voice grew stronger, almost as if he had been waiting for this opportunity.

“Whichever way is fine. I hope the fishing industry in the north develops a bit more.”

As his eyes twinkled, Iellie found herself focusing on the fisherman’s story before she knew it.

“I heard that the Duchess is planning transportation within the Duchy freely.”

“That’s right. That’s what I’m thinking.”

“If that means of transportation is actually practiced, it will be easier to sell.”

It must have been something she had been thinking about for a long time, but the fisherman’s voice was passionate.

“Because an important factor in selling a product is transportation.”

“Were you thinking about the transportation system as well?”

Her eyes widened, captivated by the breadth of perspectives he shared. Such profound insights into the fishing industry in the North indicated that this person had devoted considerable thought to the matter—a quality that she sought in someone.

“If the aquaculture business succeeds and the transportation problem is solved, what remains is to promote the product.”

She clearly summarized the point—the promotion of products.

As soon as those words escaped her lips, a hush fell over the crowd. Everyone knew what needed to be done, but the question of how to achieve it had left them at a loss.

“…Then, how about using the existing festival?”

Iellie, lost in her thoughts as she gently patted her cheek, finally spoke up. All eyes turned towards her, eager to hear her words.

“We have already had experience in successfully establishing a large-scale festival called the ‘Asha Festival’ in the north.”

Deep in thought, Iellie recounted fragments of her past life. During her time at the provincial government office or city hall, they had devised festivals with unique regional characteristics as a means to develop each area.

Admittedly, there was a concern that such festivals could drain budgets without yielding substantial results.

Still, she had a solution in mind.

“In addition, there are festivals in this area to pray for the safety of fishermen and a good harvest.”

She proposed a fishing festival, although it had remained relatively unknown due to its modest scale and sporadic occurrence. The majority of people were oblivious to its existence.

In the meanwhile, the revelation that the Duchess was aware of this festival left everyone astounded, exchanging bewildered glances.

The Duchess’s tone was light as if it was nothing extraordinary.

“And festivals are a place to bring many people together and introduce products.”

As she continued with a soft voice, people widened their eyes at the unconventional proposal.

“If the festival could be fixed as a regular event, there would be no greater publicity effect.”

“Well, yes, but…”

“Budget issues—”

When the administrators who had been listening from afar stuttered, Iellie became arrogant.

“Everyone, where do you think this is?”

People just went silent at her words. Zachary watched her from behind with a satisfied look. He was happy to be able to help her move freely.

“The richest territory in the empire, comparable to the Imperial Family.”

Iellie fluttered her butterfly-like eyelashes. She spoke in a nonchalant tone, as she lashed out at those around her.

“It’s Duchy Hessenweitz.”

“Du, Duchess…”

“And the person who will support you is me, Duchess Hessenweitz.”

All the people in front of the only one who was leisurely, Iellie. Duchess Hessenweitz. She recognized once again the powerfulness that the name gave her.

She calmly spoke.

“At least, I promise you, the festival will not be held back by budget issues.”

Lightly looked at them. Although she smiled sweetly, her voice was deafening.

“And aside from budget issues, I have no doubt that this method is the most efficient.”

Everyone in the place was silent.

After she smiled, she calmly asked again.

“What do you think?”

“I agree.”

Duke Hessenweitz, who was watching the situation, spoke casually. Even though it was a plan that consumed a considerable budget, it was a light tone, as if saying, “Let’s go for a walk today.”

“It seems that the Duke agrees with my opinion.”

After saying that, she glanced back. Zachary nodded lightly. He was telling her to do whatever she wanted. After exchanging glances with him, Iellie smiled.

“Now that it’s like this, I’m curious about what you guys think.”

“…That, I mean.”

“How about this?”

There was absolutely no reason to decline the proposition. A festival of this nature held the unparalleled power to promote and showcase with utmost effectiveness.

Nevertheless, the ducal couple’s nonchalant organization and expenditure of a substantial budget left the attendees bewildered. The Duke’s unwavering support for the Duchess added to the grandeur of the occasion.

“Then let’s meet again in a week.”

Iellie straightened her posture, a smile gracing her lips as she motioned for the administrators and resumed speaking.

“Until then, prepare and submit the necessary documents, such as the budget. I will review it in advance.”

Evidently, the new Duchess of the North displayed symptoms of being a workaholic. The administrators could already envision their future workload multiplying. However, the absence of any complaints was understandable.

‘Because she leads the way and sets an example for the people under her command.’

She shouldered a heavier workload than anyone else, fueled by her unwavering passion. All tasks were handled with fairness, and rewards and consequences were clearly defined. Thus, there was no room for grievances.

Admiration was unmistakable on the faces of everyone’s faces.

The meeting was over. Zachary skillfully escorted Iellie and got out. Even though they came right after lunch, the sun was slowly setting. Zachary asked her.

“How is it, Len? Were you satisfied with the outcome of today’s meeting?”

“Yes, it wasn’t bad.”

Iellie turned pensive. After a while, she smiled mischievously.

“Everyone seemed to think that we were using our budget too recklessly, but…”

Zachary glanced down at her. With her lips together, Iellie shrugged lightly.

“…Well, I think it’s natural to spend the necessary budget where it has to be.”

“Really?”

“Yes. It’s foolish not to do what you’re supposed to do just because it’s on a budget.”

Iellie narrowed her eyes. Money should be spent where it needs to be spent. That was Iellie’s creed.

“Rather, we should closely examine the budget execution to see if it is not being wasted.”

“….”

Since Zachary was well aware of Iellie’s workaholism, he put on a slightly sullen face.

“Len, somehow it feels like you’re increasing your work.”

“If I’m the Duchess of the North, I should do this.”

“…I see.”

Zachary experienced an unexpected surge of emotions. He had not anticipated hearing the title ‘Duchess of the North’ uttered by her own lips. Meanwhile, Iellie, focusing on pragmatic matters more than her sensitive husband, recognized the value in the fisherman she had encountered before.

Talent was always a precious asset.

“Excuse me!”

With a raised voice, she, who had gone out of her way to seek out talented individuals, inquired with a playful sparkle in her eyes.

“You. What is your name?”

The man was taken aback.

Not only had he unexpectedly crossed paths with the Duchess, but he never imagined he would have the opportunity to engage in such close conversation with her.

“It, it’s Peter…”

“Ah, Peter. That’s a nice name.”

While Iellie beamed with a smile, Zachary’s expression darkened. He understood that her intentions were not driven by self-interest, yet he couldn’t help but feel displeased when she engaged in conversations with other men.

“Do you have any plans to become the planner of this festival?”

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