Isekai Merchant

Isekai Merchant
I am Yoshio Aizaki, an essayist who loves isekai reincarnation manga and anime.
I, too, have written an isekai novel. It shares many similarities with other works in the genre, 
but thanks to the power of AI, the writing process was astonishingly fast.
Now then—let us reincarnate into another world.

Table of Contents
Chapter 1
◆The Plains of Another World
◆Skill Settings
◆To the First Town
◆Meeting the Traveling Merchant Dario
◆Conversation with Marco the Shopkeeper
◆The Red Pillow Inn

Chapter 2
◆The Next Morning, Back to Work with Dario
◆Meeting Malta
◆Basics of Perfume Making
◆Presenting the Conditions
◆Required Materials and Preparations
◆Negotiations with Toma
◆First Distillation
◆Completion of the Base Essence
◆Purchasing Alcohol and the Return Trip
◆Encounter with a Monster
◆A Merchant’s Decision to Choose the Escape Route
◆Safe Return

Chapter 3
◆Completion of the Perfume and Label Design
◆Printing the Labels
◆First Sales at Dario’s Shop
◆First Successful Sale
◆Mass Production of the Homemade Perfume
◆Malta’s Advice
◆A New Perfume
◆Malta’s Evaluation
◆Elma the Herb Merchant
◆A New Step Forward
◆The Rina Trading Company

Chapter 4
◆Assistant Sheila Aria
◆Perfume Flash Sale
◆Concept for a New Fragrance
◆Request to Adventurers
◆Skill Check
◆Encounter with Goblins
◆The Original Moonlit Fragrance
◆Flower Cultivation
◆Expanding Sales Routes to the Royal Capital

Chapter 5
◆Princess Anneliese
◆Exclusive Contract
◆Aclea Institute of Perfumery
◆The Warming Device
◆Efficient Essential Oil Extraction Methods
◆Reducing Transportation Costs
◆Establishing a Shop and Workshop in the Capital
◆Expectation for Tomorrow

Chapter 6 
◆ Potions
◆ The Old Mage, Galdos
◆ Infusing Perfumes and Potions with Magic
◆ “Rejuvenation, you say?”
◆ Royal Palace Trials of the Healing Potion
◆ Beauty Potion
◆ Effects of the Beauty Potion

Chapter 7
◆ Disposal of Flowers
◆ Magic‑Powered Papermaking Device
◆ Recycling
◆ Adjusting Magic Output
◆ Wyvern
◆ Rock Lizards
◆ Refining Mithril
◆ The Completed Potion

Chapter 8
◆ Rank Promotion Exam
◆ Exam Day
◆ Aerial Transport
◆ The Device for Making Paper from Grain Husks
◆ Royal Audience
◆ The Paper Guild

Chapter 9
◆ Establishing Schools
◆ Movable‑Type Printing
◆ Spread of the Abacus
◆ Issuing Banknotes and Establishing a Bank
◆ Opening the 100G Paper Shop
◆ Establishing Corporations
◆ The City of Arts
◆ An Endless Otherworld

◆ Afterword
 

Chapter 1
◆ The Plains of Another World
Voice of the Heavens: Welcome to another world.
This is a lush, green plain.
First, please tell us your information:
Name
Gender
Race
Age
Occupation
Yoshio, male, human, 20 years old, merchant.
As if nodding in acknowledgment, the air trembled slightly.
A faint circle of light appeared at Yoshio’s feet, then vanished.
Yoshio, male, human, 20 years old, merchant. Understood.
The light converged and silence returned.
Only the sound of the wind brushing through the grass reached his ears.
The next step awaited him.

◆ Skill Settings
Next, we will configure your skills.
You may create any skills you like.
Multiple selections are possible—add as many as you wish.
A translucent window unfolded before him.
Lv.1
Basic Stamina 1/100
Basic Mana 1/100
Skills: None
Create Skill
It seemed he could operate the window by touching it with his fingertips.
Only the “Create Skill” option floated alone in the interface.
The sky was a clear blue, and the distant mountain ridge was faintly hazy.
He appeared to be standing on a grassy roadside; a packed dirt path stretched left and right.
Far to the right, the outline of a small town surrounded by stone walls could be seen.
Merchant skills…?
Perhaps calculation ability, memory, and creativity would be good.
Three items were added to the window, each with a short description beside it.
Voice of the Heavens: “Calculation Ability,” “Memory,” and “Creativity,” correct?
A practical skill set well suited for a merchant.
Would you like to add more?
There still seemed to be room in the skill slots.
The lower right corner of the window displayed: Remaining Skill Slots: 7.
A faint bell rang from the direction of the town, carried by the wind across the plains.
Perhaps it signaled noon.
The sun was high overhead, and shadows were short.
Before taking his first step in this world, adding a few more cards to his hand wouldn’t hurt.
Let’s add Healing Ability as well.
The rest can be added when needed.
Would you like to enable the automatic skill addition feature?
Yes.
Understood. Remaining skill slots will be reserved.
Voice of the Heavens:  
Skill List: Calculation Ability, Memory, Creativity, Healing Ability.
This completes your settings.
Please enjoy your life in this world.
If you need anything, simply call upon me.
The particles of light scattered and dissolved into the air, and the window faded away.
Suddenly, the world felt sharper—its resolution raised a level.
The scent of grass, the dusty taste of the wind, the unevenness of the ground beneath his feet—
his five senses had fully settled into this body.

◆ To the First Town
The town he had glimpsed earlier now stood clearly under the sunlight.
Two-story buildings of wood and stone lined the streets, and a windmill turned slowly at the center.
Heading there seemed the most reasonable choice.
A merchant with empty hands could only rely on skill and quick thinking.
First, though—he was hungry.
And he had no money.
What is the currency of this country?
In response to his call, information flowed smoothly into his mind.
As if he had known it all along, the knowledge settled naturally.
The currency of this world is G.
1G equals 1 yen, 100G equals 100 yen.
A simple system identical to Japanese yen.
Your current funds are 0G.
…To be frank, a merchant with zero on hand is in quite a difficult situation.
His stomach growled loudly in protest.
He had only just arrived, but his body was honest.
The town was about twenty minutes away on foot.
No travelers selling food were in sight, nor were there any fruit-bearing trees.
The roadside grass looked edible in theory, but that was a last resort.
He glanced to the right side of the road.
Among the stones, something metallic reflected the sunlight—a coin.
Let’s pick that up.
Yoshio crouched and picked up the coin with his fingertips.
Half-buried in dirt, but clearly stamped with 100G.
A fortunate find.
Congratulations. You have obtained 100G.
…The reason it was dropped is unknown, but this road sees a fair amount of traffic.
You may find more lost items in the future.
With 100G, he could at least buy food in town.
But it wasn’t enough for lodging or purchasing goods for trade.
Looking toward the town gate, he saw several people coming and going.
A single wagon—likely belonging to a traveling merchant—was parked nearby.
If he could find a way to earn money there, it would be ideal.
But first, he needed to deal with his empty stomach.

◆ Meeting the Traveling Merchant Dario
He approached the gate and called out to the merchant.
Do you need an assistant?
The merchant was sorting wooden crates beside his wagon.
A stout man in his forties, sweat beading on his brow as he repacked goods into leather bags.
He paused and looked up when Yoshio spoke.
Hmm? An assistant?
He eyed Yoshio up and down.
No luggage, no weapon—just a lone young man.
He scratched his chin, thinking.
…Never seen you before. Where’d you come from?
His gaze was pure appraisal.
Not hostile—just calculating, like a true merchant.
If you can carry goods and manage ledgers, I won’t say no.
But I only serve cheap meals.
If that’s fine, help me until tomorrow morning.
Daily pay is 500G.
Not a fortune, but with meals included, it was a good deal.
Yoshio accepted.
Understood. I’ll help.
I’m Yoshio.
Nice to meet you.
Oh, I’m Dario. Good to have you, Yoshio.
Dario grinned and pulled out a chunk of dried meat.
Was just about to eat lunch.
Go ahead and have some.
You’ll get the rest once we finish loading.
The dried meat was salty and tough, but to an empty stomach it was a feast.
Yoshio helped with the remaining crates.
Inside were bundles of herbs and dried plants—goods for wholesale to the next town.
The work was steady, but manageable for two people.
Without looking back, Dario muttered:
You said you’re a merchant. Planning to stay in this town for a while?
If so, make connections in the market.
You can’t open a shop around here without an introduction.
Understood. I’ll greet everyone once we finish.
They worked until sunset.
As promised, Yoshio received 500G, along with dried meat and bread.
Dario pointed toward the plaza.
That big tent over there is Marco’s stall.
Come here tomorrow when the second morning bell rings.
Don’t be late.
He waved and headed toward the inn.

◆ Conversation with Marco the Shopkeeper
The plaza buzzed with evening activity.
Residents gathered after work, and smoke rose from food stalls grilling meat.
Marco’s tent stood firmly at the center.
A plump man in his mid-thirties was tidying up in front of it.
He noticed Yoshio and looked up.
Oh? Haven’t seen you before. Need something?
Marco, nice to meet you.
I’m Yoshio.
I’m helping Dario.
What do you sell here?
Marco smiled and gestured inside the tent.
I run a general goods shop.
Dried foods, daily necessities, small medicines—things like that.
Best selection in town, they say.
The items were indeed varied:
salted fish, hemp bags, soap, insect-repellent ointment, leather flasks.
All essentials for travelers and locals.
If you’re helping Dario, you’ll be here for a while?
If so, let me know if you want to buy stock.
I can sell at wholesale prices—much better profit than retail.
Though you’ll have to pay a stall fee.
The sunset made Marco’s round face even redder.
More people were gathering; night was approaching.
Thank you.
I’ll be back.
I still need to learn about this town, so I’ll find an inn and rest.
Tomorrow, I’ll finally get started.
Marco pointed down the street.
Go straight and turn left—you’ll find the Red Pillow Inn.
Meals are decent, and it’s about 200G a night.
Not a bad place.
Yoshio thanked him and headed toward the inn.

◆ The Red Pillow Inn
He found it quickly—a small two-story wooden inn with a sign showing a red pillow.
Inside, a plump woman—likely the landlady—was stirring a pot behind the counter.
Oh my, a guest? Staying for the night?
She smiled warmly.
Several customers were eating stew in the dining hall.
Yoshio had 600G.
Considering dinner and lodging, staying here was wise.
How much is the room?
Can I stay for 100G?
Of course!
Exactly 100G.
Dinner is an extra 30G.
Today’s stew is venison—turned out quite well.
He paid 130G.
She handed him a wooden key and directed him upstairs.
The room was simple but clean, with a bed, blanket, desk, and chair.
Not bad at all.
Dinner was delicious—the venison stew rich and hearty.
He finished it quickly.
Fatigue washed over him.
Perhaps the strain of the transfer was catching up.
Tomorrow morning, he had to meet Dario before the second bell.
The first night in this world passed quietly.

Chapter 2 
◆ The Next Morning, Back to Work with Dario
Morning. I slept well.
After having breakfast for 30G, I decided to go see Dario.
Sunlight streamed through the window, and birdsong filled the town. When I went downstairs, a few guests were already eating breakfast.
The innkeeper served bread, cheese, and a thin soup. Simple, but that’s what you get for 30G.
“If you’re staying again tonight, same price. What’ll it be?”
Yoshio thought while chewing his bread.
If he planned to do business in this town for a while, he needed a base.
He paid an additional 100G and extended his stay.
He now had 340G left. His wallet was truly starting to scream.
The morning air felt pleasant as he left the inn.
Passing through the square and heading toward the cart, he found Dario already there, loading cargo.
“Oh, right on time. Good, good.”
“Today we’re heading to the neighboring town, Verde. Half a day one-way.”
He pointed at the cart. There was more cargo than yesterday.
“So, you said you’re a merchant, right? If you find anything worth selling along the way, you can pick it up.
But put it on the cart—no carrying things by hand. Show me your merchant’s eye.”
“Understood. I’ll pay you 500G for the day, after the job.”
“If I find good goods, I’ll buy them.”
Dario snorted with a laugh.
“Full of business spirit, aren’t you? Fine, do as you like.
But if you neglect the cargo, I won’t forgive you.”
Yoshio bought some small items and daily necessities in town.
The two left the town and headed east along the road.
The stone pavement soon turned to dirt, and as the trees grew thicker, the air became cool and damp.
The cart wheels occasionally bounced over stones, and Yoshio held them steady each time.
Dario guided the horse up front, occasionally talking to Yoshio.
Suddenly, he glanced to the roadside.
“Hey, over there. See it?”
In the shade off the road, clusters of low shrubs with purple flowers were growing.
“That’s lavenderna. It only grows around here.
The petals are used for perfume. In town, one bundle sells for 200G.
If it’s growing wild, you can take whole bundles—but don’t uproot them.”
A sweet scent drifted on the wind.
Dario looked uninterested, but he had said Yoshio could pick things up.
This was clearly a test.
If it’s free to harvest, I should fill a basket.
Dario switched the reins to one hand and looked back.
“Where’s your basket… ah, fine. Take whatever you can carry by hand.
But don’t wander too far—we’re leaving soon.”
Yoshio grabbed an empty wooden box and a basket from the cart and ran to the lavenderna patch.
The purple flowers grew densely at the tips of the branches, and picking them carefully kept them pristine.
Before long, half the box was filled with purple blossoms.
The scent was strong enough to cling to his hands.
When Yoshio returned, Dario’s eyes widened.
“Whoa, you picked that much? You left the roots, right?”
He checked the box.
“…Huh. The flowers are in good condition. Hardly crushed. Not bad.”
He looked genuinely impressed.
He seemed to wonder whether Yoshio had a plan to sell them, but didn’t ask—an unspoken rule not to intrude on another merchant’s business.
The horse neighed softly, and the cart began moving again.
If I boil the lavenderna down and make perfume, I could make a profit.
Dario glanced sideways at him.
“Perfume, huh. If you hit it big, it’s worth a lot… but you’ll need a distiller and proper equipment.
There’s a blacksmith in Verde, but whether he’ll lend you anything is another matter.”
The cart continued through the forest path. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, birds fluttering overhead.
After a pause:
“Well, find your own connections. I’ve got an acquaintance—Marta, an apothecary.
She runs a shop in Verde. Knows a lot about fragrances. I can introduce you… but it won’t be free.”
He didn’t say whether he wanted money or a favor.
The forest path opened up, and the stone walls of Verde shimmered in the distance.
“Please introduce me to Marta.
If I can make perfume, I can do business with you.”
Dario smirked.
“Quick to decide, aren’t you? Fine, I’ll introduce you.
But there’s a condition. If you manage to make perfume, the first batch goes to me.
Perfume is a luxury item for nobles in Verde—one bottle can fetch 10,000G.
I’m not asking for exclusivity, but I want priority.”
The gates of Verde approached.
The town was larger than the previous one, with two gatekeepers.
Dario waved, and they let him through easily.
He pointed to a blue-roofed house.
“That’s Marta’s place. ‘Marta Apothecary.’ She’s usually there after noon.
We’ll drop off the cargo at the guild warehouse first—you’ll have time.”
Even without meeting her yet, an apothecary skilled in fragrances would be a valuable ally.
It felt wrong to visit empty-handed.
Should I bring lavenderna as a gift?
Then learn how to make perfume, and look for a distiller with my day’s wages.
After helping unload the cargo, Dario handed him 500G.
“And Marta’s shop is straight down this road, then left.
Do your best.”
Dario left with his cart.
Yoshio selected a few bundles of lavenderna and headed to Marta’s shop.
◆ Meeting Marta
A small shop with a blue roof. Bundles of dried herbs hung by the door.
The wooden sign read “Marta Apothecary.”
He knocked, and a voice answered.
“Yes, yes, wait a moment.”
A small elderly woman with neatly tied white hair appeared.
Her posture was straight, but her eyes carried the weight of long years.
She looked at Yoshio and the lavenderna.
“…Oh? Lavenderna. Nice color. So, what do you want from me?”
“I want to make perfume from lavenderna. Could you teach me how?”
Marta lifted a bundle, sniffed it, and closed her eyes.
After a moment, she lowered it.
“Perfume, huh. You’re a beginner, aren’t you?”
Her words were sharp, but she didn’t seem intent on turning him away.
“Come in. This isn’t a conversation for the doorway.”
The shop was dim, filled with hanging herbs.
Glass instruments lined the workbench, and shelves held jars of liquids.
Marta sat down, the chair creaking.
◆ Basics of Perfume Making
“Perfume is made by dissolving flower essential oil in alcohol.
To extract essential oil, you need a distiller.
Managing the heat and cooling temperature is everything—mess it up, and the flowers are ruined.”
She stared straight at Yoshio.
“You’re asking me to teach you, but you don’t have equipment or helpers, do you?
If you’re treating me like a handyman, get out.”
“I’ll buy a distiller and alcohol. If I make perfume from lavenderna, I’ll give you some.”
She exhal
◆ Presenting the Conditions
"Mind you, while you can buy alcohol at any local liquor store, a still won’t be that easy. A regular blacksmith can't forge one. It requires a fractionating column. I could lend you mine, but..."
Marta raised a single finger.
"I have conditions. First, you bring the finished perfume straight to me before anyone else. I’ll be the one checking the quality. 
Second, if this business actually gets off the ground, you route all your regular essential oil procurement through me. 
There's a limit to how many wild herbs you can pick by yourself, isn't there?"
In short, the terms were similar to Dario's, but this partner offered far more specialized expertise. A master of perfume making, and a guaranteed slot in the distribution channel. It was not a bad trade.She retrieved a small vial from the back shelf and placed it on the desk. The amber liquid shimmered as it caught the light."This is the essential oil. Extracted straight from Lavendana. Commit it to memory by scent; this is the final form of what you're aiming for.""So, Lavendana perfume has a refreshing scent, doesn't it?"
◆ Required Materials and Preparations
"How many Lavendana flowers do I need to make this much?"Marta twirled the small vial of essential oil with her fingertips.
"Let’s see... For this amount, you’d need roughly five bundles of Lavendana. But remember, they must be picked after the flowers have fully bloomed. If you pick them while they're still buds, they won't have enough essential oil components.
"There was still some Lavendana left in the cart. Since it had been picked just this morning, it should be fresh enough.Marta glanced at Yoshio's face."That look tells me you have something in mind. 
Do you already have them?""...Well, if you have them, that makes things easy. You can use my still. But someone else is using it right now, so you'll have to wait until evening.
 Until then, you've got things to do, don't you?"Marta stood up and grabbed a ring of keys hanging on the wall.
"There's a general store on the west side of this town. Look for a sign that says 'Toma's Shop.
' You'll need a distillation flask, a condenser tube, and a cloth bag to strain the residue after distillation. 
Gather them all. The price should be... well, around 800G."800G? He was a little short on funds.Should I try to negotiate a discount?
She shrugged her shoulders in disbelief."Negotiating is fine and all, but Toma is a stubborn man. If you want to bargain, you'd better bring some materials worthy of it. 
He's a man who'll agree to a barter, too.
"Yoshio thanked Marta and left the shop.
◆ Negotiating with Toma
A few bundles of Lavendana still remained in his possession. Heading toward the west street, "Toma's Shop" was easily spotted. 
It was a shop with a narrow storefront; upon entering, shelves were stacked all the way to the ceiling, cramped with a dense array of merchandise.
A middle-aged man leaning his elbows on the counter gave Yoshio a sullen look as he walked in.
"Welcome. ...What are you looking for?"Toma, the shopkeeper, had a square face and thick eyebrows—the very image of a seasoned merchant. 
When Yoshio explained that he was looking for consumables for a still, Toma brought out a complete set of flasks from the back. 
A condenser tube and a cloth bag; just as Marta had said, the total came to 800G."Could you give me a small discount? 
I can give you this Lavendana to make up for the shortfall."Toma glanced at the Lavendana.
◆ The First Distillation
When Yoshio returned to Marta's shop to drop off the parts for the still, the previous customer had just left. 
The old woman opened the lid of the still to inspect the inside, then turned back toward Yoshio.
"It's about evening. Are you ready?"Marta took charge of tending the fire for the still and began instructing Yoshio on the procedure.
Water and Lavendana were placed inside the flask, and heat was applied from below.Before long, vapor began to rise, cooling down as it passed through the condenser tube. 
Drip, drip... clear droplets fell into the cloth bag."Don't rush it. Let it cool slowly. ...Yes, just like that.
"Yoshio was deeply moved by the precious droplets of Lavendana.
◆ Completion of the Base Essence
The raw extract of his very first perfume.
As she caught the liquid dripping from the cloth bag with a small dish, Marta nodded with satisfaction.
"Good color. Perfectly clear. This is your essential oil."
The essential oil collected in the small dish was a mere fraction. From five whole bundles of Lavendana, only this much remained. Converted into perfume, it would amount to just a few drops.
Even so, for Yoshio, this was his very first creation.
He let a single drop fall onto the back of his hand and caught the scent; an aroma incomparably more concentrated than the morning's fresh bouquet instantly filled his senses.
As he carefully transferred the essential oil into a small vial, Marta spoke up.
"From here, you’ll dilute it with alcohol to turn it into perfume, but leave that for tomorrow. For today, wash the still and pack it up."
Marta deftly put out the fire under the still and began washing the components in a bucket filled with water.
"Come back again tomorrow. Just buy the cheapest alcohol at the liquor store—the kind used for making fruit brandy will do just fine. ...And another thing."
The old woman looked back at Yoshio."
The scent changes once the essential oil cools down, so apply a little to your wrist or somewhere before the day ends. Memorizing how your own perfume turns out is an important part of the craft, too."
"Understood."
"I will go pick more Lavendana tomorrow. I look forward to working with you again."Without stopping her hands from cleaning, Marta replied,"Aye, I'll be waiting."
◆ Purchasing Alcohol and the Return Trip
By the time he left Marta’s shop, the sun had completely set.The magic stones of the streetlamps cast a faint, gentle glow along the night paths of Verde, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
The liquor store was easily found, and he purchased fifty grams of the fruit-brandy alcohol.
While there were inns available here in Verde, considering his remaining funds, it was wiser to retrace his steps and return to the first town.
Though travelling the paths at night felt a bit unsettling, the moonlight was in his favor. 
Yoshio stepped out onto the highway and began his walk.
After walking for a while, a rustling sound echoed from the bushes ahead. It was not the wind. It was the distinct presence of something moving.
◆ Encounter with a Monster
A low growl echoed from the moonlit grass. Two shadows, each about the size of a dog, crept sluggishly out onto the highway.
Their fangs glinted sharply, reflecting the moonlight. With their grey fur and crimson eyes, they could be wild hounds, or perhaps some kind of monster.
This is bad. Are they wolves?
Even if he tried to run, wolves would easily outrun him.What should I do?
The two beasts kept their postures low, gradually closing the distance. One was smaller, while the other was a size larger—likely a parent and its cub. Perhaps driven by hunger, saliva dripped from between their bared fangs.
Yoshio set his luggage down on the ground; he could move better empty-handed. Under the moonlight, he intensely watched the beasts' movements. The smaller one was the first to move. It dashed forward to flank him from the side, while simultaneously, the larger one charged straight at him from the front.
The larger beast leaped, its sharp claws flashing in the moonlight. If he rolled to the side immediately, he might be able to dodge it, but if he lost his balance, there would be no second chance. There was not a single soul along the highway; he could expect no help.
◆ A Merchant’s Decision to Choose the Escape Route
I still have food in my tunic.
On pure instinct, he scattered the food. 
Yoshio thrust his hand into his waist pouch, grabbed the remaining bread and dried meat, and flung them across the ground. 
For a split second, the beasts' attention shifted. The smaller one twitched its nose and pounced on the dried meat, while the larger one also turned its head toward the scent.
Taking advantage of the distraction, Yoshio backed away to open up some distance. 
Completely engrossed in the food on the ground, the beasts showed no sign of pursuing him.After watching them closely for a while, the parent and cub finished eating and slunk back into the bushes. 
He held his breath until they had completely vanished from sight, only then finally letting out a deep, heavy sigh.His life was saved, but he had lost every bit of his traveling rations. 
All he had left was fifty grams of alcohol and a few loose coins. With no way to even secure tomorrow's breakfast, he had no choice but to trudge along the moonlit highway.
No breakfast tomorrow, then. Guess I’ll just have to walk on an empty stomach. But at least I haven't lost my way.I still have water. 
I can endure this for a bit.Besides, I need Grandma Marta to help me finish making that perfume.
Clutching his empty stomach and relying solely on the moonlight, he walked for several hours until a familiar fork in the road finally came into view. 
A turn here, and the first town would be just a short distance away. He would likely reach it before dawn.
A thought suddenly crossed Yoshio's mind. Those beasts had remarkably clean fur for wild hounds. 
Their crimson eyes might have been a trait unique to monsters. This world possessed skills like taming and summoning. 
If there were a way to domesticate them, they could serve as guards, or even hunting partners in the future.
But for now, his empty belly and fifty grams of alcohol were his only reality. 
Until he finished the perfume and actually made some money, such thoughts were nothing but pipe dreams.
◆ Safe Return
long, the town’s outer walls loomed out of the darkness. A night-watch guard stood by, holding a flickering torch aloft. 
Yoshio approached the gate with unsteady steps and paid the 10G entry fee to the guard.The walk back to the inn felt agonizingly long, but the very moment he pushed open the door of the Red Pillow Inn, the sight of the landlady's sleepy face and the warm glow of the lamps brought him a profound sense of relief. 
Tomorrow morning, first thing, he would head to Marta's place to finish the perfume. 
That would be the true beginning of everything.
"I'm home. I somehow managed to make it back."
"Good night."Half-asleep, the landlady let out a yawn, mumbled a faint "Yeah, yeah, welcome back," and handed over the room key. 
The moment he stepped into his room, Yoshio collapsed onto the bed. Both his hunger and his exhaustion had reached their absolute limits.
 

Chapter 3 
◆ Completion of the Perfume and Label Design
The next morning, Yoshio woke to sunlight streaming through the window. His body felt a bit sluggish, but not enough to stop him.
When he went downstairs, the innkeeper served bread and soup for breakfast. He had lost last night’s food, so being able to replenish here was a relief.
After finishing his meal, he filled his water flask and left the inn. The morning air was still cold, and dew glistened on the cobblestones.
When he arrived at Marta’s shop, the elderly woman was already preparing to open for the day.
The moment she saw him:
“You’re late! The sun’s already up. Come in.”
Yesterday’s perfume base was sitting right where he had left it.
“Thank you again for today.”
Marta handed him the finished small bottle.
“Here, smell it.”
Yoshio opened the lid and checked the scent.
“The floral aroma spreads softly…
I think this will sell well.”
“Marta, I’d like to divide it into smaller bottles. Could you sell me some?
I’ll give you one of the finished bottles.”
She pulled small bottles from the shelf.
“Ten bottles for 200G. …You don’t miss a thing, do you.”
Yoshio bought the bottles and handed one to Marta. Nine remained.
She sprayed a bit on her wrist and narrowed her eyes.
“Not bad. No—honestly, it’s excellent. Better than what the perfume shops around here make.”
“But there’s one problem. The label.
If customers don’t know who made it, they won’t buy it.”
It was a fair point. In this world, products without brand assurance were rarely trusted.
Hands on her hips, she continued:
“If you’re selling under your name, you need a sign.
There’s a print shop called Ink Workshop Bertini on East Street.
With 200G for paper and ink, you can probably print your name and a flower illustration.”
“Marta, could you lend me a little money?
I’ll repay you with the profits from the lavender perfume business.”
She stared sharply at him. Silence hung for a moment before she sighed deeply.
“…You’re asking an old woman you met yesterday to lend you money?”
She rattled open a drawer and pulled out several copper coins.
“300G. Interest is thirty percent of your profit.
If you can’t repay it, you’ll never buy essential oil through me again. Understood?”
“And another thing—
I’ve been the perfume matriarch around here for many years.
I’ve seen dozens of amateurs stumble in business.
So let me tell you one thing.”
“Don’t start big.
Sell three bottles first and see the reaction.
If it doesn’t work, then it doesn’t work.
If it does, continue.
That’s how business works.”
“Yes, I understand.
I’ll pay the thirty percent interest properly.
I’ll judge whether to continue after selling three bottles.”
“Well then, I’ll go make the labels.”
She waved her hand dismissively.
“Go on, go. Bring them back once the labels are done.”

◆ Printing the Labels
After receiving 300G from Marta, Yoshio headed toward East Street.
He quickly found Ink Workshop Bertini.
The signboard letters were vividly printed, and the shop was filled with the distinctive smell of ink.
The shop owner, Bertini, was a thin man wearing glasses. He glanced at Yoshio as he entered.
“Looking to print something?”
Yoshio explained that he wanted to create labels for his perfume.
The contents would be: Lavenderna Perfume, his name, and an illustration of the Lavenderna flower.
He asked to have just five labels printed first.
Bertini began selecting paper and ink.
“Palm-sized labels, huh.
20G per sheet, so 100G for five.
They’ll take half a day to dry—come back in the evening.”
After Yoshio paid upfront, Bertini immediately began carving the printing block.
The pleasant sound of the carving knife shaving wood echoed through the shop.

◆ First Sales at Dario’s Shop
Today, Yoshio decided to help Dario and earn his daily wage.
There was still time in the morning, and with debt owed to Marta, he wanted to earn as much as possible.
He walked through the central square and headed toward South Street.
When he arrived at Dario’s produce shop, regular customers were already lining up.
An elderly woman, two young women—Dario was busy wrapping vegetables.
He looked up.
“Oh, you came! I got a huge load of onions today. Mind helping me peel them?
150G an hour—how about it?”
It was a good offer. Peeling onions didn’t require strength, and he could earn a few hours’ worth before noon.
Behind the shop, wooden crates were filled with onions.
Working under the sun meant sweating, but the perfume’s scent wouldn’t be an issue.
In fact, the fresh lavenderna fragrance helped neutralize the onion smell, and the young women kept glancing at Yoshio.
“Would you like some perfume, miss? It’s lavenderna perfume.”
Without stopping his hands, Yoshio casually spoke.
One of the young women twitched in reaction.
“Perfume? That’s rare in this town. Can I see it?”
Yoshio took out a small sample bottle from his pocket, sprayed his wrist, and offered it to her.
She brought his wrist close to her face.
“Wow… it smells wonderful. Fresh and not overwhelming.”
Her friend leaned in.
“Hey, let me smell it too!”
The second woman was also captivated, squealing with excitement.
Dario peeked out from the back, half amused.
“Hey now, don’t disrupt business too much… but yeah, it does smell good.”
The women clutched their purses.
“Where can we buy this?”
“I’m planning to sell it. This is just a sample.
Tomorrow, I’ll release it as a premium perfume with labels.”
Their eyes sparkled.
“Premium… how much?”
“I want one! Where should we go tomorrow?”
Their enthusiasm exceeded expectations.
Perfume wasn’t a daily necessity for them—it was a luxury, but not impossibly expensive.
Marta had said few shops in town sold perfume, and she was right.
Dario, carrying onions, overheard.
“So you really are a merchant. No wonder you were so interested in flower prices yesterday.”
One woman tugged her friend’s sleeve.
“Did you hear? It’s coming out tomorrow! We have to go!”
Her friend nodded.
“I’ll go first thing in the morning. Where will you be selling it?”
The two asked if he could sell it here at the produce shop when they came for groceries.
Dario looked troubled but not displeased—extra customers were good for business.
“Dario, I’d like to sell the perfume here tomorrow. Is that alright?”
He scratched his head.
“Well… as long as you don’t get in the way.
If my customers buy it while shopping, that’s not bad.
Just don’t take over the storefront—I still need space for vegetables.”
The women clapped their hands.
“Great! We’ll be here tomorrow!”
Excited, one asked:
“What’s your name?”
He needed a name for the label anyway.
Yoshio introduced himself properly.
“My name is Aizaki Yoshio. Nice to meet you.
I’m thinking 500G per bottle.”
The women exchanged looks.
“500G… a bit pricey, but that’s normal for perfume.”
Counting on her fingers:
“It’s barely within my monthly allowance… but I’m buying it. Definitely.”
Dario nodded, impressed.
“500G, huh. Enough to buy five loaves of bread… well, never mind that.”
500G was exactly the mid-range price Marta had advised.
Too cheap would raise suspicion; too expensive would scare buyers.
Judging from the women’s reactions, it was a good price.
When the onion peeling was done, Dario paid him 150G.
By evening, the labels would be ready.
The plan to sell perfume here tomorrow was set.
Yoshio felt a warm surge of excitement—everything was coming together.
Early Morning – Labels and Final Check
He woke early the next morning.
He picked up the labels, attached them to the bottles, and hurried to show Marta.
Morning mist still lingered as he walked quickly to Ink Workshop Bertini.
The “Lavenderna Perfume” text and flower illustration were beautifully printed.
He received five labels—one was for Marta.
Before he could knock on Marta’s door, her voice called out:
“It’s open. Come in.”
Inside, Marta was already seated at her workbench.
He handed her a bottle. She glanced at the label, then opened the lid to check the scent.
She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply.
“…It’s calmer than yesterday. Perfume settles better after resting.”
She placed the bottle down, stood, and faced Yoshio.
“The label looks good.
Well then—today’s your debut as a salesman.”
“One bottle is for you, Marta.
If I sell the remaining four, I’ll earn 2000G and repay my debt.”
She raised an eyebrow.
“Only four? Those girls are already lining up this morning—you won’t have enough.”
“…But fine. That’s how it is at the start.”
“The debt was 300G.
When you sell them, give me the thirty percent interest—90G.”
The rest of the profit would be Yoshio’s.
He had promised to sell at least three bottles.
Four felt a bit tight, but he had no more perfume to spare.

◆ First Successful Sales
The clock tower in the central square chimed eight in the morning.
When Yoshio hurried to Dario’s shop on South Street, two women were already standing in front of it.
One was the same young woman from yesterday, and the other seemed to be a friend she had brought along.
Word of mouth was not to be underestimated.
The moment they spotted Yoshio:
“There he is! Yoshio, we’ve been waiting for you!”
He quickly took out the lavenderna perfume and sold it to the women.
“Thank you for your purchase.”
He planned to order more labels and repay Marta’s loan afterward.
The two women handed over 500G each without hesitation.
One decided instantly, not even giving her friend a chance to speak.
The second woman complained, “Hey, no fair! I wanted to buy it first!”
Yoshio handed the perfume to each of them politely and saw them off with a smile.
Another customer who had been watching said, “Sell one to me too!”
Yoshio ran straight to Bertini’s workshop on East Street and ordered additional labels.
Then he rushed to Marta’s shop.
Marta counted the money.
“Principal 300G, interest 90G. All right.”
“…So, what are you going to do about the remaining five bottles?”
After subtracting the label cost, interest, principal, and the cost of bottles and equipment, there was still no profit left from the 2000G he had earned.
The new labels would be ready tomorrow evening.
But he needed to buy essential oil from Marta to make more perfume.
Marta shook a small bottle of essential oil.
“I still have some base oil left. Enough for two bottles—50G.
This time, why don’t you dilute it yourself?”
Yoshio decided to make the next batch on his own.

◆ Mass Production of Homemade Perfume
Yoshio bought more bottles and began filling them.
Marta pointed at the tools as she explained the steps:
“Essential oil one part, alcohol nine.
Pour slowly with the bottle tilted downward—if you rush, it’ll splash.”
Yoshio carefully poured the liquids.
Watching the lavenderna essential oil dissolve into the alcohol felt strangely mystical.
Finally, using the blending technique he had learned from Marta, he adjusted the scent and attached labels to the small bottles.
Five bottles completed.
For a first attempt, it was an excellent start.
However, considering the cost of materials, equipment, and labels, there was still no pure profit.
He had reached the stage where his skills as a merchant would be tested—
Should he scale up production, raise the price, or find a different sales strategy?
As the sun set over South Street, Dario called out while closing his shop.
After finishing his sales tally:
“Business was booming today. Your perfume doubled the customer traffic.
I’m counting on you again tomorrow.”
Yoshio went out to pick more lavenderna flowers.
For now, he would focus on steady business—building trust and selling high‑quality perfume.
Mass production would have to wait until he had more capital.
The next morning, he lined up the perfume bottles at Dario’s shop again.
The rumor had spread even further—three women and even one man showed up.
Apparently, he had realized the floral scent helped mask sweat.
He sold perfume to all three women, leaving only two bottles.
By afternoon, everything was sold out.
He picked up the new labels in the evening and prepared to sell again the next day.
A cycle was forming—produce, label, sell, repeat.
And then, Yoshio began supplying perfume to Dario as well.Dario often traveled to nearby towns selling various goods.By honoring his promise—“If you manage to make perfume, I’ll be your first wholesale buyer”—
Yoshio repaid the favor.

◆ Marta’s Advice
One evening, while Yoshio was reporting his sales to Marta, the elderly woman lifted her eyes from a letter she had been reading.
She beckoned him closer.
“Come here a moment. I’ve got something interesting.”
“A merchant named Rina from the neighboring town seems to have taken an interest in our perfume.
She sent a letter asking if we could supply it wholesale.”
Wholesale—meaning distributing the perfume to other towns.
Sales would increase dramatically, but issues like quality control and transportation would also arise.
A turning point had arrived.
Marta looked at him with a testing gaze.
“So? What will you do? It’s your perfume. You decide.”
“The lavenderna fields are still blooming, so I can make more for now…
But someday, I won’t be able to harvest them anymore.”
“Maybe I should try making perfume from other flowers too.”
Marta tapped her chin thoughtfully.
“Good thinking. Lavender is strong, sure, but people get bored with just one scent.”
“Lavender isn’t the only flower around here.
There’s rosemary growing in clusters in the western hills, and water lilies blooming in the southern wetlands.”
She pulled a thick botanical encyclopedia from the shelf.
Flipping through the pages:
“Rosemary makes a sharp, masculine scent.
Water lily is sweet—good for nighttime perfume.
Both can produce essential oil.”
“But listen—if the flower changes, the blend ratio changes too.
What I taught you was the lavender recipe.
For the others, you’ll have to experiment on your own.”
Developing new perfumes—
It would expand his product line and test his skills as a perfumer.
The wholesale offer was tempting, but Yoshio decided he needed to strengthen his foundation first.
He would continue selling lavenderna steadily while researching new fragrances.
Once things were stable, he could respond to Rina’s request.
A solid, realistic path was beginning to take shape.

◆ Developing New Perfumes
Yoshio immediately set out to gather rosemary and water lily flowers.
The next day, after finishing his morning perfume sales, he headed toward the western hills.
Rosemary thrived in dry conditions, growing naturally among rocks and rough terrain.
About an hour’s walk from town, he found a large patch.
The rosemary leaves spread low across the ground, thick and vibrant green, with clusters of small flowers blooming beneath them.
Touching the leaves gave a sharp, tingling sensation.
He picked the leaf tips and placed them into his basket.
On the way back, he detoured south to the wetlands.
White water lilies floated as if rising from the surface of the water.
His feet sank into the mud as he harvested the flowers along with their stems, collecting several leaves as well.
By the time he returned to town near sunset, he had filled two baskets with flowers and leaves.
Back at the inn, he began extracting essential oils.
First was rosemary.
When he placed the leaves into the distiller and applied steam, a bluish liquid began to drip.
Next was water lily.
Its sweet fragrance filled the distillation room.
Two new perfume bases now sat on the table.
From here on, it was the perfumer’s true craft.
He diluted both the rosemary and water lily oils and checked their scents.
“Hmm, these smell good.”
He then tried blending rosemary with lavenderna.
And lavenderna with water lily.
Adjusting the ratios, he worked to create the optimal fragrance.
After much trial and error, four perfumes took shape:
Pure Rosemary: A masculine scent with a sharp, refreshing leaf aroma.
Rosemary + Lavenderna: The sharpness softened, becoming calmer and more balanced.
Water Lily + Lavenderna: Water lily’s sweetness was too strong, but lavenderna mellowed it. Adding a tiny amount of leaf-derived oil gave it depth.
Lavenderna + Rosemary Blend: Sweetness and freshness coexisted—an entirely new type of perfume.
Lavenderna + Water Lily: The flowers complemented each other, resulting in a soft, elegant fragrance.
He lined up the four bottles and compared them.
All were good, but he especially liked the two‑flower blend and the lavenderna × water lily combination.
“I should ask Marta’s opinion.”

◆ Marta’s Evaluation
After finishing the next morning’s perfume sales, Yoshio visited Marta and lined up the four bottles on her workbench.
She opened each lid and sniffed.
“You… made four in one night? You’re reckless.”
Her hand stopped at the two‑flower blend.
She sniffed it again.
“This one’s interesting. Men and women could both use it.
It’s your best hit.”
“This one could be mass‑produced.”
“We should design a label and turn it into a proper product.”
He decided the label would include the title Blender: Aizaki Yoshio.
Marta folded her arms.
“Blender, huh? Good title.
A name adds prestige to the product.”
“Next is establishing a production system.
To make all four types in parallel, you’ll need a lot of essential oil.”
He relied entirely on Marta for supply, but her production capacity had limits.
As if reading his thoughts, Marta said:
“You want more flower suppliers, right?
I know I can’t keep up alone.”
“There’s an herb merchant named Elma on West Street.
She cultivates flowers too—she should be willing to sell to you.”
“But negotiate the price yourself.
If you tell her I sent you, she won’t turn you away.”

◆ Elma the Herb Merchant
A new supply route—Yoshio’s business network was slowly expanding.
His funds were not abundant, but with perfume selling steadily, he had room to negotiate.
After placing another label order with Bertini, he headed to West Street.
“Elma, I’d like to request flower harvesting.
Specifically rosemary and water lily.”
A woman peeked out from behind the counter.
“Oh, you’re Marta’s apprentice? I’ve heard about you.”
She stood up and pulled a botanical catalog from the shelf.
“Rosemary and water lily, huh? How much do you need? Regular supply? Or irregular?”
Elma looked to be in her mid‑twenties, wearing a green apron stained with soil.
Behind the herb shop, Yoshio could see a glass greenhouse.
She clicked her abacus.

◆ A New Step Forward
That evening, Marta once again asked Yoshio about his reply to Rina.
Sitting deep in her chair, she said:
“Now then. About the wholesale offer—if we don’t send a reply soon, it’ll be rude.
What do you want to do?”
With four varieties completed, Yoshio finally had products he could proudly present.
But his foundation was still fragile.
The choice was his.
Business waits for no one.
Yoshio decided to accept the offer.
Marta smiled faintly.
“Good eyes. You remind me of myself when I was young.”
“I’ll write the reply.
You start mass‑producing the new perfumes.
We need a decent stock before Rina arrives, or it won’t look professional.”
That night, Yoshio began working in earnest.
Ten bottles of each of the four perfumes—forty in total.
This was the minimum lot he wanted to show Rina.
He could only make about five bottles per night, so it would take eight days of work.
During that time, he continued selling the regular lavenderna perfume.
His regular female customers came every morning without fail—some even said their day couldn’t begin until they saw Yoshio’s face.
On the evening of the eighth day, he finished labeling the final two bottles.
Forty‑two bottles in total.
Small perfume bottles lined the desk from end to end.
Bathed in the morning light, the sight was magnificent.
He also delivered a sample bottle to Elma.
He named the perfumes:
Rosemary Clear
Water Lily White
Lavenderna Blue
Lavenderna Rose
Lavenderna Water Lily
Each perfume now had its own name.
And the label read:
Blender: Aizaki Yoshio

◆ Rina Trading Company
The next morning, while Yoshio was having breakfast on the first floor of the inn, an unfamiliar carriage stopped outside on the street.
“That’s a carriage I haven’t seen before.”
It was finely crafted, with the emblem of a trading company engraved on its side.
The coachman opened the door, and a thin man in his mid‑thirties stepped out.
He wore a well‑tailored navy coat and carried a silver pocket watch—clearly a merchant.
A single attendant followed behind him, carrying luggage.
The man looked around, spotted the inn’s sign, and walked straight inside.
He climbed the stairs, saw Yoshio in the dining hall, and stopped with a polished merchant’s smile.
He extended his right hand.
“Pleasure to meet you. I’m Rina of Rina Trading Company.
Are you Aizaki Yoshio? I’ve come with a letter from Marta.”
He had arrived two days earlier than expected.
Perhaps the letter had no date, or perhaps Rina was simply impatient.
Either way, a major business partner now stood before him.
“Nice to meet you. I’m Aizaki. The perfumes are ready—please wait a moment.”
Yoshio went upstairs and brought down forty bottles for Rina to inspect.
Rina held each bottle up to the light, checking the color and scent.
“Oh… four varieties. And all of them are high quality.
I like that the label includes your name and the title ‘Blender.’ It shows the craftsman behind the product.”
His eyes sharpened with each bottle he examined.
He wasn’t leading a trading company for nothing—he checked bubbles, clarity, and scent with meticulous care.
After placing down the last bottle:
“I’ll be direct. I want to purchase all four varieties.
Twenty bottles each—eighty total.
In my town, we can sell two hundred bottles a month.”
“For price, how about 600G per bottle?
Frankly, that’s cheap for this quality.”
Six hundred G—higher than Yoshio’s usual retail price of 500G.
It was gratifying to be valued so highly.
At that rate, monthly sales would reach 120,000G.
Rina mentioned he could sell them for over 1000G each in his own town.
Rina took a contract from his bag.
“And one more thing.
Next month, I plan to hold a perfume fair in my town.
Would you like to participate?”
Yoshio agreed to the contract and to joining the event.
He would cover the participation fee, and during the event, his perfumes would be sold at Rina’s store.
“I’d like to confirm—when will the perfume event take place?
I need to adjust my inventory accordingly.”
Rina signed the contract as he answered:
“Three weeks from now.
Three days at the central market of Acuria, the port town.
On the first day, we distribute samples.
Sales begin in earnest on the second day.”
Three weeks—enough time, but not enough to relax.
At five bottles per day, he needed every moment.
Elma’s flower supply would be stabilizing around then, so the timing wasn’t bad.
If he missed this opportunity, the next big business chance might be far off.
Rina paused his writing.
“As for inventory, if you arrive the day before, you can use my warehouse.
I’ll also arrange lodging.
Travel and accommodation costs are on us.”
“And I’d like you to stand at the booth during the event.
Having the craftsman present makes a huge difference in customer interest.”
That meant Yoshio would stay in Acuria during the event.
Leaving town was nerve‑racking, but the business opportunity was enormous.
He reviewed the contract terms, signed, and exchanged signatures with Rina.
“Understood. I’ve signed.
If the people of your town enjoy my perfumes, nothing would make me happier.
I look forward to working with you.”
They shook hands.
“Likewise. I expect great things from you.”
Rina boarded his carriage and departed with his attendant.
When the hoofbeats faded, quiet returned to the inn’s dining hall.
Yoshio was left with a copy of the contract—and three weeks of intense planning.
First priority was clear:
Finish the eighty bottles for shipment by next week.
At the same time, he needed inventory for the event.
Eighty bottles wouldn’t be enough for three days of sales.
He needed at least 150 bottles.
That meant more than double the usual amount of essential oil.
The next day, Yoshio threw himself into work.
Morning sales, afternoon production, and nighttime coordination with Marta and Elma for flower supply.
His workload increased day by day.
Three days later, Marta approached him in the central square.
In a low voice:
“Is that story true?
You’re really going to the port town event?”
“It’s true. Tomorrow I’ll be selling perfume at the event.
I can’t handle everything alone.
I need an assistant…
Do you know anyone suitable?”


"Please let me know if there are any mistakes in the translation."