Chapter 24: Baron Rebrandt's theft case [1]
Luxury goods were very important to nobles because they were the simplest way to announce one's power.
Just owning them was effective.
'But it has to be something that the majority approves of.'
Not everything that is unique or rare can be a luxury item. It must have a charm that everyone wants.
In that respect, Adam's pottery was perfect.
Even the workers who didn't know anything about fashion couldn't help but be amazed.
"The question is how to use this," I mused. Luxury goods are a means of showing power, after all.
Just holding a party and showing off Adam's pottery would cause quite an uproar.
Nobles would flock to see if they could get at least one piece. Then, we could easily unite our forces.
'But why should I do that?' Viscount Erset was an average person.
Although he was an imperial internal affairs officer, he was not the only one in that role. It would be a bit unfair to call him the top class.
If I were in Viscount Erset's position, I would actively use Adam's pottery. They probably wanted to give gifts to the royal family or high-ranking nobles to seek more benefits. But aren't I the emperor's only cousin?
"Where is the further authority to establish here?"
Moreover, even if it had decreased somewhat, the wealth was still sufficient.
There was no reason to feel inferior. There are people higher than me...
'No, it exists, right?'
As long as Adam continued his work, the existence of his pottery was bound to become known.
Then people would ask why I kept this good thing to myself. It's okay to just ignore the nobles talking, but what about the emperor?
"Wow! I'm already getting goosebumps."
No matter what happened, it seemed like the answer was to start with a gift. Of course, it was impossible to give Adam exactly what he had made.
The colors were nice and pretty, but the design wasn't very good.
If you just give a flat tray, doesn't it look like something is missing?
Since I have seen and heard more, I should give some advice.
"Adam."
-Why? You don't like my art?
"No, I like the soft blue color. The surface texture and durability are both acceptable."
-Oh, oh! But why do you look like that?
"It doesn't look very good. Why not try making it this way?"
I drew a picture and showed it to him. It was a type of Goryeo celadon that I often saw when studying Korean history. When the pattern was added and completed, Adam's eyes widened.
"This, this...!"
"How is it? Will you make it?"
-You are a genius. How can you think like this?
"Hmm! It's one of those insignificant talents." I smiled sheepishly and shrugged my shoulders.
I felt sorry for my ancestors who created great works. But how about copying a bit? This is a completely different world.
"When you're done with that, try making some other things."
-Just say it. What do you want?
"With a more simple style... No, it would be better if I draw it and explain it."
I immediately drew bowls of various shapes.
They had a much simpler form than Goryeo celadon, and their color was all white. "You don't need to put a lot of effort into this."
-Why?
"We have to produce them in large quantities. I'm just going to print them and sell them. How is it? Can you do it?"
―It is possible if you don't put in a lot of effort. But the quality is not so good...
"It just has to be sturdy."
-I get it.
Dishes were something everyone needed. Because you can't spread food out on the table and eat it.
Generally, nobles use silver trays, and commoners use wooden bowls.
What if ceramics invade this situation? It's more hygienic than wood and looks better, so why wouldn't it sell?
'It will cause sensational popularity.'
I smiled at Adam, who had a bright face. It seemed like he had the spirit of craftsmanship, as he was so fond of a drawing drawn by a mysterious developer. I guess my tastes are a bit refined.
"Deacon Wilkin?"
"Yes, Your Highness."
"Please get all the ingredients Adam needs. When the item is completed, please call me first."
"All right."
After giving a few commands, I went back to my room. I was really going to rest now.
* * *
"Damn... Deleting weekends isn't something that only exists in modern times."
I got into the carriage, swearing loudly. After deciding on Adam's future, I decided to get some deep rest.
But when I came to my senses, it was already Monday. Really, all I did was lie around for a while and eat a few meals.
"I'm here, Your Majesty."
"Ah, yes."
"Please give us a good ruling this time too. Haha!"
The coachman's cheerful greeting felt heavy today. I was afraid that if I went to court, what kind of crazy case would await me.
Sure enough, this time, while reading the complaint, I had no idea what it meant.
"What does this mean? A nobleman lost all his wealth to a commoner?"
"Yes, that's the situation."
"Is this possible in the eyes of Judge Emir?"
"Not in general."
"Then there must be a hidden story behind this incident?"
"I wouldn't have said that originally, but judging from the judge's recent actions..."
"What do you think of my actions?"
"How many times have you not found out the complete truth? It means that it would likely happen this time too."
No matter how much I thought about it, it seemed like it was turning, but I couldn't be sure.
Emir Kolund's expression was very serious.
He didn't seem like that kind of person to begin with. If a guy like Josef just said the same thing, it's a no-brainer.
"Let's go in first."
"Yes."
I left the uneasy feeling behind and entered the courtroom. Immediately afterwards, prosecutor Corbin Sears stood up and shouted.
"We will now begin the trial of Baron Rebrandt's theft case. Salute to your honor."
I bowed my head politely towards those who bowed me.