Otome Game Mob Villain

Chapter 685

"『The Typing Device』 will revolutionize clerical work. Once this hits the market, the ability to type quickly without looking at one's hands will become invaluable. Those who can touch-type will be highly sought after. It could even create an entirely new profession."

I declared this proudly, but the aristocratic ratfolk merely tilted their heads skeptically, beginning to murmur among themselves.

"...While it does seem like an excellent product, I doubt typing skill alone could create a new profession."

"Indeed. Most people should be able to learn it to some degree. I can't see it generating new employment."

"This particular claim feels rather unrealistic."

As they exchanged doubtful glances, only Luva remained serious, her hand resting thoughtfully on her chin.

Typists... She at least should recognize the potential.

In my previous world, when typewriters were perfected, they revolutionized office work. The ability to type accurately became highly valued, giving rise to the profession of typists—a historical precedent.

Clearing my throat to regain everyone's attention, I continued, "Actually, we've already introduced the Typing Device to the bovine and ursine tribes, receiving orders for several units. However, a slight problem has emerged."

"A problem, you say? Should we even be hearing about this?" Luva inquired.

I nodded. "Yes, of course. The issue is that members of these two tribes, being considerably larger in stature, are struggling to operate the Typing Device effectively. Therefore, we'd like to propose that the ratfolk supply personnel skilled in its use. Naturally, you may charge a dispatch fee. We're also willing to mediate if necessary."

The aristocrats perked up. "Oh...?!"

"To think we'd be sending our people to serve the bovine and ursine tribes—what a delightful notion."

"Indeed. For once, they'd have to look up to us."

"Ah... Just imagining it sends shivers down my spine."

Their murmurs seemed tinged with personal grudges, but I decided to pretend I hadn't heard.

"I see. But if that's the case, why not send people from Baldia instead?" Luva asked.

"If you refuse, Lady Luva, I won't press the matter. However, considering relations between both nations, I believe it should be the ratfolk who handle this."

Her eyebrow twitched slightly.

Assisting with paperwork would mean frequent exposure to confidential information. While one could view this as an opportunity to openly gather intelligence, the flip side was that any leaks would immediately cast suspicion on them.

The Typing Device was meant to build trust—having it backfire would be counterproductive.

"There's a saying: 'What can go wrong eventually will.' Similarly, 'If you leave room for suspicion, you will eventually be suspected.'"

I was already busy trying to avoid future condemnation; the last thing I needed was to plant such seeds in Zubera.

If we wanted Zuberan intelligence, relying on Amon or Rafa would be far better.

"Lady Luva, dispatching our people to the bovine and ursine tribes would make us responsible if anything goes wrong."

"Indeed. Given our proximity to governance, the other tribes already view us with enough suspicion."

"While the proposal is attractive, we should be wary of rash agreements."

Advisors gathered around Luva, discussing in hushed tones. Though some had seemed smug earlier, cooler heads were prevailing.

After listening, Luva fixed me with a sharp look. "...Very well. We'll accept the typist training and dispatch proposal. In exchange, you'll supply us with additional Typing Devices, correct?"

"Yes, within feasible limits for now..." I deliberately left it ambiguous, glancing sideways at Amon.

He nodded, clearing his throat to speak. "As you know, our foxfolk territory has been strengthening ties with Baldia. We plan to soon construct factories for producing Typing Devices and their supplies. Leave Zubera's domestic supply to us."

The aristocrats buzzed with excitement at the prospect of locally produced devices and materials—all except Luva, who paled and leaned forward.

"Wait—does that mean you'll mass-produce paper in Zubera too?!"

"Indeed. While the process remains confidential, Baldia and the foxfolk territory are collaborating to enable secure production. High-quality paper is essential to maximize the Typing Device's utility," I replied with a smile.

Luva slumped back, stunned. Currently, only a few nations could produce quality paper. Cheap, abundant paper would drastically increase record-keeping capacity, streamlining governance and effectively boosting national strength.

"...I may have underestimated Baldia and the foxfolk alliance."

"Now, Lady Luva, shall we continue? In exchange for supplying Typing Devices, we'll adjust the road construction fees accordingly."

"Y-yes. That's acceptable."

As she agreed, I glanced at Chris. During the typist discussion, she, Capella, and Emma had been revising estimates.

When Tink presented the new figures, Luva blinked—understandably, given the increased sum.

"We'll provide about twenty devices when road construction begins."

"T-twenty?! You never mentioned having so many—"

"They aren't available yet, but we'll deliver them by the time construction starts. Production is already scaling up in Baldia. These are our terms."

My matter-of-fact tone left her speechless before she sighed deeply.

"Fine. We'll proceed on these terms. But surely you can lower the price for twenty units?"

"If you purchase thirty, we can reduce the per-unit cost."

This was my polite but firm line. Unfazed, Luva countered, "In that case..."

We spent hours negotiating road construction costs, device pricing, and quantities, searching for compromises. By the time both sides were satisfied, dusk had fallen.