I Beg Your Forgiveness (Completed Main Story) - Side Story 5

“Art?”

Someone asked in a puzzled voice, taken aback by the unexpected statement. Marien nodded at him.

“Previous expos have proceeded with national promotions, product exhibitions, and sales. But the expo to be held in Blauberg this time will take a different direction from past events. The theme this time is ‘art.'”

The nobles quietly listened to her words. Her calm and composed voice gently filled the conference room.

“Nations across the continent are rapidly advancing, each vying with the others. Commerce is flourishing, and exchanges between countries are becoming increasingly active. In this process, wealthy capitalists are beginning to take interest in art.”

It was only natural. When one is struggling just to survive, paintings and sculptures hold no value—but once well-fed, people inevitably seek art to enrich their spirits.

“In every country, it’s becoming a trend for nobles and entrepreneurs to discover and sponsor new artists. Sometimes, the prestige of one’s family is even measured by how distinguished an artist they support. They pay astronomical sums just to acquire renowned paintings.”

The nobles present were no exception. Artworks had ascended to the ranks of luxury goods. Ownership of certain paintings had become another benchmark of one’s wealth.

“Therefore, at this expo, we will introduce both established and emerging artists and showcase their works in one place. We aim not only to delight visitors but also to open new avenues for selling artworks. The Blauberg Expo will become an international stage for art.”

She concluded calmly. A brief silence fell over the conference room. “Ahem.” Someone cleared their throat and spoke reluctantly.

“Won’t the risk be too great? Why not just continue as we have before…?”

“No, Lord Heinz.”

When Marien addressed him precisely by name, Baron Heinz flinched. He owed her a debt for helping find his runaway child.

Baron Heinz quietly averted his gaze.

“We cannot simply repeat past events. Blauberg stands at the forefront of a new era. We will not rest content as the world’s largest trading city. We will become a city beloved by artists—a city where artists from all regions gather, tourists flock, and wealth flows in.”

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