She Is Not a Witch

The Western Wind Kingdom had always emphasized family traditions, and discussing matters at the dinner table was common. Vegar, once part of Western Wind, had been influenced by this custom.

Loranhil first took her seat at the head of the table, followed by branch managers from various regions in order. Other key personnel included the Carithes fleet commander, major shop managers, and workshop supervisors, who collectively formed the backbone of the merchant association.

At the table, Loranhil nibbled on bread while watching each association member introduce themselves. She occasionally nodded in acknowledgment, gradually building a mental picture of the association’s structure and organization.

If she was the brain commanding everything in the association, then the association was divided into several parts:

First were the regional branch managers, primarily responsible for local shop sales and purchases, crop estates, and some miscellaneous duties with a small security force.

Second were the major workshop managers, mainly processing acquired raw materials for textiles, oil pressing, shipbuilding, etc., with shipbuilding being a key industry for Carithes.

Third was the fleet commander. The association currently had three large fleets mainly trading between the Southern Islands and the Verdant Empire, plus 16 smaller scattered fleets. The sea vessels were equipped with cannons, giving them some combat capability.

Fourth was the caravan manager, responsible for land-based procurement of raw materials and goods transportation, with their own armed escorts.

As there were many new faces, even after Loranhil finished dining, many hadn’t yet introduced themselves. Chelsea had the maids clear the tableware, replace the tablecloth, and serve tea and snacks.

As a port city, Hopland wasn’t too hot even in summer. Considering the crowded hall, butler Ceres arranged for maids to bring in about 20 ice chests to place around the edges, gradually lowering the temperature.

After the association executives finished their introductions, Loranhil briefly introduced herself.

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“Due to my father’s sudden passing, I will now be taking full charge of the association.”

Her gaze slowly swept across the room. Some remained expressionless, seemingly unconcerned. Others looked at her with suspicion. Some seemed about to speak but held back, while others kept their heads down in silence. A few appeared more interested in her appearance.

Loranhil wasn’t surprised. The situation was quite sudden, and it would be difficult for anyone to accept immediately. Moreover, her youth naturally led some to distrust and worry. After a brief pause, she signaled Chelsea to bring out the will – the public version stating that Angus had transferred all his assets to his heir, Lacy.

Chelsea carefully held the will, showing it to each member present. Loranhil sat in her chair, quietly observing and noting their expressions.

After being passed around, most of the association executives acknowledged Loranhil’s future leadership position. Although Carithes Merchant Association was founded by Angus, he only held 60% of the shares before his death. The remaining 40% were distributed among these executives, partly as incentives and partly to firmly retain talented individuals.

“Are there any other major matters concerning the association recently?” Loranhil asked, wanting a brief overview of the current situation.

“Young miss, due to Lord Angus’s sudden passing, many other associations fear our dissolution and have begun pressing for account settlements.”

“How often were accounts settled previously?” Loranhil inquired.

“Normally, large associations settled accounts annually, small ones semi-annually. Currently, our liquid funds are limited and cannot cover all payments.”

“Have the small associations sort out their own accounts, then settle with us in order. Announce in advance that any found lying or falsely reporting will have to wait until next year. This way, they can slowly clear their accounts, and we’ll handle them one by one. This creates a time buffer and also reassures them.”

“For large associations, they can withstand pressure better and don’t mind the wait. Stick to the usual annual settlement. If any still demand immediate settlement, report to me, and I’ll personally visit them.”

“Next, continue.”

“Due to recent unrest in Western Wind, many raw materials we usually procure there have been affected,” a caravan leader said worriedly.

“Which essential materials do we need to acquire from Western Wind?”

“Mainly timber, fruits, and cotton. Others are in smaller quantities and can be supplemented elsewhere.”

“For these materials, don’t accept new orders for now. How much is still needed to complete existing orders?” Loranhil asked.

“In response, young miss, we have some timber reserves at the shipyard. By using a few ships originally prepared for ourselves to fulfill orders, we can barely manage.”

“Good, have the fleet procure any shortfall from the Verdant Empire. They also produce plenty of timber, it’s just usually uneconomical due to transport distance.”

“As for cotton… does the workshop have many textile orders recently?”

“Yes, young miss. With Western Wind urgently recruiting soldiers, many great nobles have ordered robes and uniforms from us.”

“Pause new orders. Don’t rush the great nobles’ orders, complete the smaller orders first.” Loranhil suspected these Western Wind nobles might not be around to receive their goods.

“For fruits, have the fleet procure from the Southern Islands.”

Loranhil swiftly handled various issues with orderly management, immediately grasping the key points of problems, much to everyone’s surprise.

“Alright, next. Any other issues?”

“Young miss, with Western Wind in turmoil, many associations have begun stockpiling food. Should we do the same?”

“No need, carry on as usual. Besides, our current cash flow isn’t abundant,” Loranhil shook her head, holding her teacup.

Although food prices were likely to rise, stability was paramount for now. It wasn’t clear if the Tisphone family would make another move, as they were professional war profiteers.

Loranhil then adeptly handled several more issues before the meeting finally adjourned late into the night.

After the meeting ended and everyone had left, Loranhil sat alone at the table, rubbing her temples.

“You’ve worked hard, young miss.” Chelsea handed her a white towel to wipe her hands, then had the maids tidy up the messy table.

“Mmm… there seems to be so much to deal with. Was it always like this?”

“Not this much. I suppose Lord Angus’s sudden departure has made everyone a bit uneasy. They wanted reassuring answers from you.”

“You performed remarkably, young miss. Not at all like a sixteen or seventeen-year-old.”

“I’m not that impressive,” Loranhil stood up from her chair, stretching a little as she smiled and denied the praise.

“Is that so? But judging by the relieved and admiring looks on those managers’ faces as they left, the result doesn’t seem as modest as you claim.”