Chapter 20, Double Whammy Part 1

On the 32nd of Imis, at noon, Sabith returned to Owen's office while Owen was finalizing contracts for the bank and the mall. Owen was in the process of signing the documents when Sabith arrived, bringing news that the first batch of goods had been completed. Hearing this, Owen quickly finished signing the contracts and departed with Sabith for the Apollo Mall to inspect the goods.

Upon their arrival at the imposing building labeled "Apollo Mall, Caledon Branch," they stepped inside to witness an impressive flurry of activity. Stonemasons and woodworkers were diligently crafting the final touches—intricate detailing on the interior columns and elaborate designs on the archways. Elsewhere, glassworkers were carefully installing panels for the storefront windows. In the center of the mall, a remarkable feature was under construction: a grand glass dome positioned where the intersecting X-shaped walkways converged. This central area also housed staircases leading to the upper floors and was designated to include a vibrant food court. Additional staircases were located at the ends of the four main pathways, providing access to the higher levels.

Sabith and Owen continued deeper into the mall, making their way to the expansive storage rooms. These rooms, designed with precision, were divided into temperature-controlled zones: cold storage for perishable goods and standard storage for items requiring no specific conditions. It was here that they examined the goods they had come to see, marveling at the careful organization and readiness of the inventory.

Some of the goods Sabith and Owen inspected included a wide array of chocolates, ranging from the more affordable options to the finest high-end varieties. These were categorized as following:

The chocolate varieties were designed to appeal to a wide range of customers. Affordable options included chocolates with 50-80% cocoa content in both milk and dark types. Prices ranged from 1,000 Thal per 250 grams for the most economical choices to 2,000 Thal per 250 grams for higher-quality ones. Luxury chocolates, on the other hand, targeted upper-class markets. These premium options were priced between 2 to 4 Ran per 250 grams. They were expected to generate the majority of profits by appealing to affluent buyers.

The jewelry collection was another standout category with significant profit potential. The cost of raw materials ranged from 5,000 Thal to 15 Ran per piece. Finished jewelry items were sold at prices between 8 Ran and 250 Ran. This created a lucrative profit margin. A unique highlight was the Four Elements Collection, a set Owen designed recently. Each piece in this collection symbolized one of the classical elements and held a distinct value.

Vayu, the "Wind" piece, was a diamond necklace crafted from 99.9% pure platinum. It featured five impeccably cut diamonds arranged in a diamond shape. The central diamond was 8 carats, while the surrounding four were 4 carats each. All diamonds had flawless clarity (FL), a D color grade, and an excellent cut. Its estimated value ranged between 8,000 and 14,000 Ran, making it a masterpiece of craftsmanship.

Bhumi, or "Earth," was an emerald necklace. It followed the same design as Vayu, with five identical-sized stones. The central stone was 8 carats, and the surrounding ones were 4 carats each. With similar quality to Vayu. Its estimated value ranged from 9,000 to 15,000 Ran.

Varuna, meaning "Water," was a sapphire necklace. It also shared the same structure but was priced lower, with an estimated value of 2,000 to 9,000 Ran, mostly because sapphires were just seen as cheaper than the emeralds or diamonds; other than that, the quality was still superb.

Agni, or "Fire," was the crown jewel of the collection. This ruby necklace surpassed the others in value. Its price was estimated between 28,000 and 65,000 Ran, epitomizing luxury because of the extreme rarity of the ruby and the extremely high quality which was found almost nowhere in other stones.

The combined value of the Four Elements Collection was remarkable. Its total valuation ranged from 47,000 Ran (approximately 4.7 million) to 103,000 Ran (approximately 10.3 million).

To further elevate the craftsmanship of the Four Elements Collection, Owen infused each piece with magical enchantments. These enchantments not only enhance the jewelry's durability but also provide a unique, self-sustaining maintenance feature. The gemstones were protected by powerful magic runes capable of absorbing ambient mana from the surroundings. This ambient energy fueled an intricate system that kept the gemstones pristine, automatically cleaning and maintaining their brilliance. Additionally, the enchantments allowed the jewelry to repair any minor damage it sustained. However, if the gemstones were shattered or destroyed entirely, the enchantments would not be able to restore them, preserving the collection's balance of magic and craftsmanship.

Each piece in the collection bore Owen's craftsman's signature, a mark of authenticity and unparalleled skill. The insignia featured a sleek black sun with the initials OA engraved beneath it. This iconic emblem was meticulously integrated into the platinum settings of the gemstones and engraved onto the chains. It served as a testament to the origin of the piece, signifying that it was created by Apollo and crafted by Owen's hand. This insignia not only symbolized the exquisite craftsmanship but also reflected the unity of artistry and innovation that defined Owen's work.

While the other jewelry in Owen's collection was undoubtedly remarkable, pieces not produced by Apollo lacked this distinctive black sun insignia. Without this mark, these items, though beautiful, could not claim the same level of prestige or connection to the legacy of the artisan. The Four Elements Collection stood apart, not only for its dazzling aesthetics and impeccable design but also for its storytelling, magical enhancements, and signature craftsmanship that made it truly one-of-a-kind.

Another aspect of Apollo's expansion that Owen was eager to delve into was the production of clothing by one of its child companies, Apollo Apparel. This new venture specialized in creating high-quality garments for both men and women, blending style with durability to cater to discerning customers.

The company was helmed by Leo, who had recently made a significant move: after some convincing, he decided to relocate the headquarters of Apollo Apparel to a more strategic location within the mall.

As an added incentive, Owen provided him with the funds needed to purchase an entire suite of stores in the mall, enabling a significant expansion of his operations. With this acquisition, Leo's flagship store now boasted a floor space of 2,500 square meters—about half the size of the bank. While this might seem modest initially, the planned design for the new building would compensate for this by incorporating multiple floors.

The structure was to span three levels, each with a height of 10 meters, culminating in a total height of 75 meters. This multi-floor design would provide an impressive total floor space of 7,500 square meters—equivalent to roughly two football fields. The expanded facility was set to become a cornerstone of Apollo Apparel's ambitious growth.

Before leaving, Owen took the opportunity to examine some of the newly produced outfits, selecting a few to store in a specially ordered container for safekeeping. After reviewing more items, Owen instructed the team to begin stocking the outlet shops, ensuring they were fully prepared for launch.

Once the outlets were adequately stocked, any remaining spaces were to be rented out to local businesses that had established good reputations within the community. This strategy not only reinforced Apollo's commitment to supporting local enterprises but also ensured that the mall would offer a diverse range of goods and services to its patrons.

Following the productive visit to the mall, Owen headed to the courthouse to address some administrative tasks. Upon arriving, he informed the receptionist of the nature of his visit, and she directed him to a private room where assistance would be provided.

After a brief wait of approximately five minutes, a man entered the room and began helping Owen navigate the matters at hand. The first item on his agenda was the restructuring of Apollo's banking division into a separate, smaller company named Apollo Finance. This new entity would operate as a child company of Apollo, allowing for greater focus and streamlined operations within the financial sector.

Owen proceeded to implement similar changes for other departments: the production arm was reorganized as Apollo Production, while the distribution network became Apollo Distribution. Additionally, Owen established Apollo Cosmetics to oversee makeup and skincare products, as well as Apollo Transportation, which would be a vital component for future logistical endeavors.

By the end of the restructuring process, Apollo had grown to encompass a total of nine child companies, each with a specific focus: Apollo Finance, Apollo Apparel, Apollo Construction, Apollo Cosmetics, Apollo Production, Apollo Distribution, Apollo Transportation, Apollo Sales, and Apollo Agriculture.

Each of these subsidiaries would require a dedicated CEO to ensure their success, a responsibility Owen intended to delegate to Sabith upon their return. Given Sabith's exceptional contributions and unwavering commitment, Owen also decided that he should take on the role of CEO for the entire Apollo enterprise, recognizing the pivotal work he had accomplished thus far.

After completing the lengthy paperwork and finalizing the transfers of deeds and property, Owen gathered the documents for the nine newly established subsidiary companies. With everything in order, he finally left the courthouse, feeling a mix of exhaustion and accomplishment.

The day had been long and filled with tasks, and as Owen stepped outside, the magic lamps lining the streets began to flicker to life, casting a soft glow across the evening. It was 8 p.m., and the thought of heading home to rest after such a productive day brought a sense of relief.

On the 33rd of Imis, the production team achieved significant milestones by completing and dispatching several goods to the Apollo Mall. Among these items were high-quality bone porcelain, meticulously crafted to showcase durability and elegance; premium dyes, which boast vibrant and lasting hues for various applications; and superior-grade paper, designed for both luxury and practicality. These additions enhance the product diversity and quality available at the Apollo Mall, further solidifying its appeal to customers.

On the 34th of Imis, Sabith successfully identified and recruited highly competent candidates to lead Apollo's eight subsidiaries. These individuals were not only exceptionally qualified for their respective roles but also demonstrated spotless reputations and clean backgrounds. To formalize their commitment, each CEO signed mana contracts, ensuring a magical bond of accountability and integrity. This was a pivotal step in establishing robust leadership across all divisions of Apollo.

On the 35th of Imis, a strategic assembly was convened at the bank, bringing together all high-ranking executives from Apollo and its subsidiaries. In total, nine CEOs attended the meeting, signifying the culmination of the restructuring process. Each subsidiary is now helmed by a visionary leader, listed as follows:

Apollo Finance: Nora Jarvis

Apollo Apparel: Leo Dotson

Apollo Construction: Shawn Huss

Apollo Cosmetics: Karina Wessex

Apollo Production: Haris King

Apollo Distribution: Neal Balliol

Apollo Transportation: Zaina Miles

Apollo Sales: Eileen West

Apollo Agriculture: Tyrell Levine

Finally, on the morning of the 1st of Apollo, Owen prepared for the long day. First, he got dressed in a black suit, which was made by Apollo Apparel and was one of their highest quality products. Next, he read the newspaper.

Caledon Press Apollo 1st, 1442

Volume Number: 21

Issue Number: 141

In an unprecedented wave of innovation and enterprise, the city of Caledon welcomes two groundbreaking establishments: the Bank of Apollo and the Apollo Mall. These openings mark significant firsts in the expansion and refinement of showing and financial services.

The Bank of Apollo, spearheaded by visionary leader Owen Alpine, is poised to transform the financial sector with its forward-thinking approach. As the first institution of its kind, the bank promises to deliver cutting-edge banking solutions paired with exceptional customer service. From paper currency enhanced with earth magic for durability to accessible designs integrating braille, the Bank of Apollo exemplifies inclusivity and innovation.

"The Bank of Apollo isn't just about transactions; it's about building trust and empowering individuals," said the CEO of Apollo Finance Nora Jarvis during a meeting before the grand opening. With its sophisticated systems and community-driven ethos, the bank aims to bridge gaps and create a future of financial stability for Caledon residents.

Meanwhile, the opening of the Apollo Mall introduces Caledon to a one-of-a-kind shopping and leisure destination. Designed with accessibility and luxury in mind, the mall hosts a curated selection of stores offering high-end goods, essential items, and everything in between. Beyond retail, the Apollo Mall is set to house unique experiences.

"This mall is more than a place to shop—it's a hub for connection and creativity," Eileen West stated. From its inclusive layouts to its breathtaking aesthetics, every detail has been meticulously crafted to ensure that visitors leave with more than just purchases—they leave with stories.

Both establishments represent Owen's larger vision: blending practicality, innovation, and artistry to redefine community spaces. With the Bank of Apollo and Apollo Mall leading the charge, Caledon is set to become a beacon of economic growth and creative enterprise.

The grand opening in four hours promises festivities, special promotions, and an opportunity for residents to experience firsthand the ingenuity driving these ventures. As Caledon steps into this exciting chapter, one thing is clear: the Bank of Apollo and Apollo Mall are more than just firsts—they are the foundations of a thriving future.

After finishing the rest of the paper, Owen completed his breakfast and prepared to head out for the day. His first stop was the bank. Upon arriving, he entered through the back door and made his way inside. His purpose was to inspect the newly minted coins and bills that had recently been issued.

As Owen examined the currency, he found the craftsmanship to be impeccable. Each bill and coin was flawless, with the intricate details reflecting the dedication and precision that went into their creation. At that moment, he decided to approach the record keeper—the individual tasked with maintaining the ledger of all issued bills.

Explaining his intent, Owen informed him that he wished to acquire the very first of the series for all the newly minted bills and coins for safekeeping. The record keeper agreed to his request on the condition that Owen provided the equivalent monetary value of the bills and coins, ensuring the treasury remained balanced.

1000 Credits Bill: King Randus Adrian Normandy I

The founder and first monarch of the Kingdom of Normandy, King Randus Adrian Normandy I, is immortalized in his royal coronation portrait on the 1000 Credits bill. This image radiates authority and grandeur, featuring him in his royal outfit adorned with intricate embroidery and a crown that symbolizes his ascent to power. His reign marked the unification of fragmented regions into a singular empire, laying the foundation for the prosperity that followed. Known for his diplomatic foresight and resilience, he established the fundamental systems of governance, trade, and law that endured for centuries. This bill celebrates his legacy as the architect of the Kingdom of Normandy, often depicted with a majestic, stoic expression, his hands resting on a gilded scepter, against a backdrop of the nascent Norman capital.

500 Credits Bill: Thaleus James Learns

Renowned as the greatest military leader in Normandy's history, Thaleus James Learns earned his place on the 500 Credits bill for his unparalleled strategic brilliance. Under his command, the empire expanded its territory by an astounding 25%, reaching its zenith in land acquisition. Known for his tactical ingenuity, he secured decisive victories in campaigns once considered insurmountable. Thaleus not only expanded the empire but also fortified its borders, ensuring long-term stability. His legacy extends beyond the battlefield—his leadership inspired a sense of unity and pride among the citizens of Normandy. The bill shows him in full battle armor, a determined look on his face, with a map of his greatest conquest subtly etched in the background.

200 Credits Bill: Elizabeth Marrie James

A visionary leader in governance, Elizabeth Marrie James is celebrated on the 200 Credits bill for her pivotal role in shaping the Kingdom of Normandy's identity. She was instrumental in establishing the empire's governmental structure, crafting the royal seal, and designing the national flag, which became enduring symbols of Normandy's sovereignty and values. Her tenure was marked by innovation and foresight, ensuring the administrative framework could adapt to the empire's growth. Elizabeth's contributions created a strong foundation for future leaders, making her a key architect of the empire's enduring legacy. Her portrait on the bill captures her thoughtful and composed demeanor, surrounded by symbolic representations of law scrolls and the first design of the Norman flag.

100 Credits Bill: King Andrew Anderson Normandy V

Known as "The Prosperous King," King Andrew Anderson Normandy V is honored on the 100 Credits bill for his transformative 46-year reign. During this era, the Kingdom of Normandy experienced unprecedented economic growth, with financial prosperity increasing by an estimated 790%. His visionary policies and investments in infrastructure, trade, and education elevated the standard of living by over nine years on average. King Andrew's focus on sustainability and innovation not only improved his citizens' lives but also solidified the empire's status as a thriving economic powerhouse. The bill features him with a benevolent smile, a cornucopia overflowing with coins and grain behind him, signifying the abundance he brought to his people.

50 Credits Bill: Henry Col Smith

The 50 Credits bill features Henry Col Smith, the pioneering doctor who revolutionized the field of medicine. His invention of modern treatment methods drastically improved healthcare and longevity across the empire. A scientist and humanitarian, Henry dedicated his life to research and innovation, developing techniques that became the cornerstone of contemporary medical practices. His legacy endures not just in the halls of medicine, but in the lives saved and enhanced by his groundbreaking work. His image shows him in a studious pose, holding a medical text, with a subtle background of ancient medical symbols intertwined with more advanced anatomical diagrams.

20 Credits Bill: Zoey Edwards

The beloved poet Zoey Edwards graces the 20 Credits bill, a testament to the power of art and empathy. Through her profoundly moving poetry, she helped prevent the War of 400, a potential conflict that could have devastated the Kingdom of Normandy. Her verses, rich with compassion and insight, bridged the divide between opposing factions, fostering understanding and civility. Zoey's literary contributions earned her lasting acclaim as a cultural icon whose words transcended borders and generations. The bill portrays her in a contemplative stance, a quill in hand, with flowing lines of poetry forming an ethereal background.

10 Credits Bill: Abjania Loqest Soghra

Honors a central figure in the dominant currency-linked religion of the Empire of Normandy. Abjania's significance is deeply tied to the Golhrasa 12, also known as the "Golden 12." These twelve principles—Love, Forgiveness, Strength, Hardship, Growth, Communication, Understanding, Acceptance, Humility, Benevolence, Passion, and Purpose—serve as the foundation of the Soghra religion, guiding its believers in their spiritual and moral journey. The bill features a serene depiction of Abjania, surrounded by twelve subtle golden spheres, each representing one of the Golhrasa.

5 Credits Bill: Victoria Ann Lexcontin

Victoria Ann Lexcontin was the first and only queen to ever rule the Normandy Kingdom after her father's death, King Randus Adrian Normandy I. She took the throne at the age of 24 and was a large contributor to improving poor housing and providing affordable food. She is sometimes known as Victoria the Charitable. The bill portrays her with a gentle, compassionate expression, extending a hand as if offering aid, with symbols of humble homes and a bounty of food in the background.

1 Credits Bill: Steel Ron Volton

This man in history was a famous philosopher who influenced people's thinking on government, God, and science, aiming for an equal balance. The bill depicts Steel Ron Volton with an open book, a thoughtful expression, and symbolic representations of scales, a cosmic sphere, and a government building subtly integrated into the design, emphasizing his pursuit of equilibrium.

The coinage system is composed of six distinct denominations, each crafted from materials that reflect their value.

The lower denominations, the Syroso (1 cent coin) and the Klan (5 cents coin), are minted from copper, symbolizing the lowest value. The middle denominations, the Cerian (10 cents coin), and the Lenprial (50 cents coin), are made from silver, marking their middle value. The higher denomination includes a silver coin with a gold rim, the Gunie (1 credit coin).

The coins follow a clear size progression that mirrors their increasing value. The Syroso, the smallest, measures 20 mm in diameter with a thickness of 2 mm, while the Klan is slightly larger at 22 mm in diameter, maintaining the same thickness. Similarly, the middle-tier coins continue this progression, with the Cerian at 20 mm and the Lenprial at 22 mm. The Gunie, measured at 24 mm, features a distinctive gold rim around its silver core.

Each coin features a distinct design to reflect its value and hierarchical rank. The obverse side clearly displays its value, ranging from "1 Cent" on the Syroso to "1 Credit" on the Gunie. The reverse side is adorned with symbolic figures that represent societal ranks: the Syroso depicts a knight, the Klan an earl, the Cerian a duke, the Lenprial a prince, the Gunie a king.

Finally, the bills and coins were carefully stored in specially prepared containers to preserve their intricate details. Each bill and coin was placed in its own compartment, ensuring secure storage while allowing their beauty to remain visible. These containers, designed with clear panels on both sides, enable continued admiration of the craftsmanship and design of the currency.