From beginning to end, as night enveloped the archipelago, countless torches illuminated the bustling city of Liss. Within Common's estate, the halls were aglow, and exquisite dishes were served in the grand hall.
Seated at the head of the table, Common warmly welcomed Ivika, Helier, and Destin. The gathering comprised only the four of them, all seasoned schemers. None dared broach the subject of collaboration on the beauty soap directly. The trio merely lavished praise upon Common for his youthful accomplishments, incessantly toasting him in an attempt to induce inebriation. Common, however, accepted each glass of golden wine with unwavering resolve, showing no signs of intoxication.
The expressions of Ivika and the others subtly shifted. The last time Ivika had drunk with Common, the lad was far less resilient.
As the wine continued to flow, Ivika could no longer contain himself. He exchanged a knowing glance with Destin, who, understanding the cue, took a sip and remarked, "Common, I hear from Governor Ivika that you are in search of partners for your soap."
"Indeed, there is such a plan," Common confirmed. "I intend to triple production."
"How do you propose we collaborate?" Helier inquired, his interest piqued.
"Naturally, I suggest the simplest approach: a profit-sharing partnership. I provide the technology; you supply the manpower and resources. A sixty-forty split. I take sixty; you take forty."
"Are we to divide forty percent amongst the three of us?" Helier's expression darkened. "You only provide technology, yet you demand sixty? It should be reversed."
Ivika and Destin turned their attention to Common, awaiting his response.
Common raised his glass, allowing the maid to refill it. After leisurely savoring a sip, he crossed his legs. "I require absolute control over the soap factory. There is no room for negotiation. It would be generous for me to take seventy percent, and you still dare to complain?" He straightened, suddenly adopting a serious demeanor. "Not to criticize you, Governor Helier, but your moral compass requires refinement. How can one manage business with such greed?"
Helier's countenance soured. Common's audacity was truly irksome, which explained Ivika's previous low regard for him. Furthermore, this fellow was genuinely unpleasant in his dealings. Even if he were to monopolize seventy percent, it would be preferable to his current offer. Yet, he insisted on appearing considerate while sowing discord. All present were businessmen, acutely sensitive to profit. Forty percent for three to share was a pittance, and none would dare suggest relinquishing their share, for whoever did would bear the brunt of the blame.
Common remained resolute. The three governors exchanged glances until Common, unable to wait any longer, proposed, "How about this? Governor Helier takes twenty percent, while Ivika and Destin each take ten. How does that sound?"
"On what grounds?" Ivika exclaimed, regret washing over him immediately. He was infuriated. Fully aware that Common was attempting to sow discord, he had inadvertently fallen into the trap.
Common sported a knowing smile. "There is a rationale. Governor Helier owns several estates in the contested territory, making it convenient for establishing the factory. He can shoulder more of the initial costs, which is quite fair."
Ivika's expression darkened considerably. The initial investment was insignificant compared to the subsequent earnings. He was one of the wealthiest individuals in Liss; would he really lack such a trivial sum?
"I believe the profit-sharing arrangement warrants further negotiation," Ivika insisted. "I am not concerned with others. I demand thirty percent, or we shall not proceed."
"Consequently," Common said, turning to the others, "Governors Helier and Destin would need to equally divide the remaining ten percent. Do you two find this acceptable?"
"I find Common's original proposal agreeable. I shall take twenty percent," Helier said, his eyelids slightly raised. "The estate in the disputed territory remains unoccupied and is suitable."
Ivika sought thirty. Helier sought twenty. Destin appeared hesitant, then slowly extended two fingers. "Then, like Helier, I shall also take twenty."
"Very well," Common replied. "You and Helier shall both receive twenty."
Ivika and Helier gazed at Common in astonishment. They were prepared for a protracted argument, yet he seemed remarkably accommodating.
However, Common's next statement shattered Ivika's composure. "I apologize, Governor Ivika, but Governors Helier and Destin have already claimed forty percent of the profits. There is nothing left for you. Rest assured, tomorrow I shall have a box of gold sent to your residence as a token of gratitude for facilitating our partnership."
Helier and Destin exchanged glances, momentarily forgetting to speak. Meanwhile, Ivika's expression grew rigid. After a considerable pause, he finally responded, his tone chillingly cold, "What do you mean? Do you find amusement in toying with me?"
Common, unfazed, took a sip of his drink, his expression one of confusion. "Do you believe I have time for such frivolities?" His expression gradually hardened. "From the outset, I had no intention of collaborating with you, Ivika. Your ambition is insatiable. Only a fool would entertain such a notion."
"Huh? You will come to regret this." After delivering his ominous remark, Ivika turned sharply and departed, casting a lingering glance at Helier and Destin, urging them to follow.
Without hesitation, Destin rose to accompany him. Yet Helier remained still, his brow furrowed in thought.
"Governor Helier," Common said, "if you are willing, our collaboration may continue. Profits split fifty-fifty."
Helier studied the smiling Common and suddenly realized this young man may have had his sights set on him all along. Ivika and Destin had never factored into his considerations. Contemplating this, Helier unexpectedly burst into laughter.
"Haha! Of course, that is agreeable. We can discuss the details of our cooperation."
As Ivika reached the entrance of the hall, he paused, casting a cold, piercing glance back at Helier before ultimately exiting.