The grand edifice of the Silver Creek Courthouse loomed before them, its stone facade imposing yet elegant, a testament to enduring power and refined taste. Owen, meticulously dressed and radiating quiet confidence, and Ambassador Varr, her demeanor a blend of shrewd observation and diplomatic grace, stepped from their carriage. The soft clatter of hooves on cobblestones faded behind them, replaced by the hushed whisper of their footsteps as they ascended the wide, weathered stone steps, each riser bearing the imprint of countless important passages.
Inside, the cool, echoing antechamber gave way to a more intimate setting. They were guided by a deferential attendant to a comfortable room, specifically prepared for their meeting. It was appointed with plush coaches, their velvet upholstery inviting, and polished tables that gleamed under the filtered light from tall, arched windows. Taking their seats, a quiet anticipation settled over them, a polite silence that spoke volumes of the significant transaction about to unfold, as they awaited Kael's return. Owen had given precise instructions for the provisions to be delivered: a carefully curated selection of wines and cheeses, ranging from the humblest, yet still respectable, to the most exquisite of their estate's offerings. It was a presentation designed not just to showcase products, but to convey the very essence of their craftsmanship and dedication.
Precisely ten minutes later, a soft knock announced Kael's return. He wasn't alone; nine servants followed him in a graceful, synchronized procession. Each carried a bottle of wine cradled in a velvet-lined holder, accompanied by a meticulously arranged cheese board featuring an array of delectable, aromatic cheeses. It was a carefully orchestrated symphony of taste and aroma. They started with their more accessible selections, gently introducing the palate before gradually ascending to the pinnacle of their collection, building a narrative of increasing complexity and refinement with each new offering.
Kael then shifted to explaining their meticulous wine sales process, starting with how barrels are organized. Barrels for sale are marked with a red seal, while those not for sale bear a blue seal additional they also are given a serial number.
Then when the red-sealed barrels are opened for bottling, each bottle receives a unique serial number. This number is carefully recorded in a serial book and also imprinted directly onto the glass bottle. After bottling, a cork seals the wine, followed by a red wax dip for a final seal. Finally, a label is affixed, displaying the bottle's serial number, its production year, and the wine's name. When a customer makes a purchase, they receive a certificate detailing the wine's original barrel number, the bottle's specific serial number, its production year, and the wine's name.
The first wine introduced, with a flourish, was a robust red: Seaul Osa-sevata, or simply Osa Sevata. Its deep crimson hue promised richness, a promise fulfilled with the first sip. Priced at a modest yet respectable 50 credits (equivalent to 9,000 Thal), it boasted a 32 proof and offered a delightful interplay of strong earthy and vibrant fruity notes, a harmonious balance that lingered on the palate. Owen, with the air of a proud artisan, explained that while 200 barrels currently rested in their cool, subterranean cellars, a total of 1,700 barrels were projected for the year-end harvest. A substantial 700 of those barrels were earmarked for sale, a testament to its popularity and broad appeal. Ambassador Varr listened intently, her gaze fixed on the wine as she absorbed every detail of its production methods, from grape varietal to aging process.
Next came another distinguished red, the Pao-sevata. At 90 credits (16,200 Thal), this wine, with its higher 90 proof, emphasized strong fruity notes, a burst of ripe berries and plums, delicately balanced by lighter, more subtle earthy undertones. It mirrored the Osa-sevata in its projected barrel count, with 1,700 for the year and 700 slated for sale, indicating a consistent and reliable yield for this highly sought-after vintage.
A shift in color, a refreshing counterpoint, brought forth Seaul Tarasa, a distinguished white wine. Priced at 110 credits (19,800 Thal) with a 40 proof, its character was defined by strong oak and aged notes, reminiscent of sun-drenched vineyards and years of careful maturation. The inventory for this varietal stood at 1,500 barrels, with 500 designated for sale, reflecting its premium status and the meticulous care required in its production.
Following closely was Seaul Bahra, another elegant white, its liquid shimmer inviting. This offering commanded a price of 140 credits (25,200 Thal) and shared the 40 proof of its predecessor, but distinguished itself with a captivating complexity of spicy and smoky notes, a delightful surprise on the tongue. A robust 1,900 barrels of Seaul Bahra were on hand, with 900 available for purchase, demonstrating its strong production and anticipated demand.
The presentation continued with the lively Seaul Solam, a sparkling white wine. At 195 credits (35,100 Thal), it promised a remarkably clean and crisp taste, its effervescence a delicate dance on the palate. The cellars held 1,800 barrels of this effervescent delight, with 800 set for sale, a popular choice for celebrations and everyday indulgence alike.
Then came the vibrant Seaul Valase, a captivating Rosé. This wine, priced at 225 credits (40,500 Thal), surprised with its intensely strong fruity flavors, evoking the whimsical sweetness of cotton candy, a truly unique and memorable experience. Their current stock of Seaul Valase amounted to 1,600 barrels, with 600 available for sale this year, a testament to its innovative and appealing profile.
Finally, with a subtle shift in the servants' demeanor, signifying the arrival of the crème de la crème, they presented the esteemed Goh collection, a quartet of premium wines, each boasting a consistent and impressive inventory of 1,700 barrels, reflecting their exclusive nature and carefully managed production.
First among them was Goh Thepa, a red wine priced at 300 credits (54,000 Thal). It captivated with a distinct blackberry taste, rich and full-bodied, and a subtle floral aroma that hinted at secret gardens.
Next, the white wine Goh Aumra, at 375 credits (67,500 Thal), offered delicate hints of lemon, bright and refreshing, a sophisticated lightness that belied its complexity.
The Rosé of the collection, Goh Saoval, was priced at 450 credits (81,000 Thal). It delivered a unique cinnamon taste, warm and inviting, accompanied by a spicy rose scent, an unusual yet utterly delightful combination.
Concluding the impressive display was Goh Vavolo, the sparkling wine of the Goh line. Costing a princely 560 credits (100,800 Thal), it was described as a sparkling wine akin to the finest champagne, its bubbles a testament to celebratory perfection and refined craftsmanship.
As the last of the wines was presented, a comfortable silence settled over the room, broken only by the soft clinking of glasses as Owen and Ambassador Varr took another thoughtful sip. They now had a comprehensive understanding of the estate's diverse and impressive vinicultural offerings, a complete picture of quality, range, and availability.
After thinking for a moment, her gaze sweeping over the array of bottles, Ambassador Varr decided to purchase 20 barrels of all the wines, a significant investment demonstrating her confidence in the quality and potential of the entire collection. This substantial order totaled 49,900 credits or 8,982,000 Thal. After finalizing the wine purchase, she then decided to buy 5,000 credits worth of the cheese. While Owen had initially described the cheese as "nothing special," its subtle yet promising qualities, especially when paired with the wines, convinced her of its future potential. With her selections made and the deal concluded, she proceeded back to her carriage, a sense of satisfaction emanating from her. A second carriage, dedicated to carrying the payment, was dispatched soon afterward, ensuring the seamless completion of the transaction.