Chapter 8 - CHAPTER 8

Title: My First Trading Partner is An Awaken

Disclaimer: This is a work of fiction. Unless otherwise indicated, all the names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents in this book are either the product of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

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The morning sun shines over DnD Warehousing as Henry Ramirez strode purposefully into the office, his gaze sweeping across the row of warehouses flanked by bustling trucks and loaders in the expansive yard.

"Good morning, Mr. Ramirez?" greeted Mister Alrik, the owner of the warehouse, with a hint of surprise. "I must say, you look remarkably young."

"I am Mr. Ramirez, 23, I suppose youth is on my side," Henry responded with a modest smile. "I'm here to inquire about renting one of your warehouses."

Mister Alrik's interest was piqued by Henry's request. "Absolutely, we have several options available. May I ask what you'll be using the warehouse for?" he inquired, eager to learn more about Henry's intentions. It's just to know whete the warehouse is needed to, a protocol.

"I'm starting a salt business, so I'll need the warehouse to store the salt," Henry revealed, his voice resonating with determination.

"A salt business, how fascinating," remarked the Warehouse Owner, his curiosity piqued. "How much space are you looking to rent?"

After a moment of consideration, Henry replied, "I estimate I'll need around 300 square meters of space to begin with."

Nodding thoughtfully, the Warehouse Owner responded, "We can certainly accommodate that. Let me check if we have any units available in that size range."

Within moments, Mister Alrik confirmed the availability of suitable units. "We have several options in that size range. Our rental rate for a space of that size is 130,000 pesos per month. Does that align with your budget?"

"Yes, that works for me," Henry confirmed resolutely.

"Excellent. And how long do you anticipate needing the space?" inquired the Warehouse Owner, eager to assist Henry in his entrepreneurial endeavor.

"I'm looking at a long-term lease, at least a year to start," Henry revealed, his gaze fixed on the horizon of possibilities.

"That shouldn't be an issue. We can discuss options for longer-term leases as well," the Warehouse Owner assured, his professionalism shining through.

"Would you like to take a tour of the available warehouses?" he offered, gesturing toward the door.

"Yes, that would be fantastic. I want to ensure the space meets my requirements," Henry replied, his anticipation palpable.

"Of course, let's head over to Warehouse B-4. It has the ideal layout for storing bulk items like salt," suggested the Warehouse Owner, leading the way.

As they traversed the aisles of Warehouse B-4, Henry can clearly see other warehouses and when Alrik reveals the said warehouse, Henry is truly satisfied.

"This is perfect. It's spacious and clean, exactly what I need for my salt business," he remarked.

"I'm glad you think so. We can draw up the lease agreement and finalize everything for you today if you'd like," the Warehouse Owner offered.

"That sounds excellent. Let's proceed," Henry agreed. He knew for a fact that after the salt is stored in the warehouse, he can only transport them in the platform even for the five percent tax. So, he just need a warehouse that is spacious and no leak when rainy days come.

Back in the office, they meticulously finalized the lease agreement, and Henry officially secured the warehouse for his salt business.

"Congratulations, Henry. We're thrilled to have you as a tenant," the Warehouse Owner congratulated, extending his hand eager to close the deal for another client.

"Thank you, boss. This deal is way easier due to your support," Henry expressed his gratitude. It was an honest compliment.

He had certain deals with many people and these rich men like the PAL jewelry owner has this accomodating personality. Although they are for trade purposes, it was the same trade when he bought some food in the wet market, but the people in that place is not as customer-friendly as these guys.

"It's our pleasure. If you ever require anything, don't hesitate to reach out," Mister Alrik assured, his support steadfast.

'You see what I mean, right there?' Henry thought.

"I will. Thanks again," Henry replied.

As their handshake concluded, Mister Alrik, the Warehouse Owner, couldn't suppress his curiosity. "May I inquire, Mister Ramirez, do you already have established suppliers?"

Henry Ramirez, his eyes gleaming with determination, responded with unwavering confidence. "Once I settle here, my plan is to go to the largest salt supplier in the neighboring city. Their stellar reputation precedes them, and I aim to procure my salt stock from there."

"You must be referring to Manila Salt Trading Inc.," Mister Alrik interjected, surprising Henry with his astute knowledge.

Taken aback by the revelation, Henry replied, "You've dealt with them as well?"

"Yes, indeed. We've had dealings with them in the past. One of our esteemed customers here is also involved in salt retailing, so it made sense for us to collaborate, providing my staff with additional opportunities for income," Mister Alrik explained, revealing an unexpected synergy.

Realizing the potential convenience of leveraging Mister Alrik's established connections, Henry speculated, "In that case, perhaps there's no need for me to directly engage with the supplier. Your reputable standing could facilitate the direct delivery of goods to the warehouse."

"We do boast a solid reputation in the industry. In any case, to assist my new client, I'm more than willing to reach out to the supplier on your behalf," Mister Alrik offered eagerly, recognizing the mutually beneficial opportunity.

"Excellent. Now, regarding the storage capacity of Warehouse B-4, I aim to maximize its potential. How much salt could it accommodate?" Henry inquired, his ambition driving his pursuit.

Calculating the warehouse's dimensions, Mister Alrik estimated, "With those dimensions, I'd say approximately 280 tons at maximum capacity. But if I may ask, are you intending to fill the entire warehouse solely with salt?"

"Why not? That's precisely my intention," Henry declared boldly.

Internally, Henry deliberated, "Although my immediate need is only 120 tons, it wouldn't hurt to store additional salt for future transactions with Tyler."

"I understand. I'll make the necessary arrangements," Mister Alrik assured, acknowledging the magnitude of Henry's order. "That trading will be shocked to learn that they will be having a big order today."

"Perhaps, yes." Henry said.

As Mister Alrik initiated negotiations with the supplier, he learned that with this substantial order, he could secure a discounted price of 175 pesos per sack of salt.

Impressed by the scale of Henry's commitment, Mister Alrik remarked, "This order amounts to approximately 1.96 million pesos! Truly a bold Young man!"

Henry smiles and properly exited from Alrik's conversation. He needed to as this middle aged man is too accomodating.

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"Well, that's two birds in one stone!" Henry said as he got a warehouse, and immediately had a supplier of salt. However, he still needs to settle his bill to the Manila Salt Trading Inc. so that they can start delivering salt already.

He needed to rent a warehouse since it's not possible for him to send tons of salt in their place.

Henry entered the PAL jewelry store with a sense of familiarity, the comforting tinkling of a bell signaling his arrival.

Clutching a small waist bag containing the remnants of his precious gold coins, he couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation as he approached the owner, Mister Fernandez, who always seemed to exude an air of welcoming warmth.

"Good day, Mister Fernandez," Henry greeted warmly, his voice infused with a hint of excitement as he stepped into the cozy confines of the quaint shop.

Mister Fernandez looked up from his workbench, his eyes lighting up with genuine interest at Henry's presence. "Ah, young Henry! Back to part ways with the rest of your gold coins, I see."

"Indeed, Mister Fernandez. I've needed cash so, I came to you again Boss." Henry didn't mind being honest to the PAL lewelry owner.

"Can you consume the 24 pieces of gold coins, Mister Fernandez?"

A grin spread across Mister Fernandez's face as he replied, "Certainly, my young friend. Though my humble shop may not boast grandeur, do not underestimate its purchasing power."

Henry chuckled at the jest. "I didn't doubt you even for a second, Mister Fernandez . I was merely inquiring if I could make future transactions with you."

"That's excellent news," Mister Fernandez exclaimed with a nod. "Just give me a heads-up next time, so I can prepare accordingly."

"Agreed," Henry affirmed, acknowledging the importance of communication in their dealings.

"Furthermore," Mister Fernandez continued, "I've adjusted the price per gram based on the current market rates. Your 21-carat gold now fetches 2,300 pesos per gram."

"Well, that is more money for me," Henry remarked, his excitement mounting with the prospect of a profitable transaction. "Here are the gold coins, Mister Fernandez."

Upon completing his assessment for around 20 minutes, Mister Fernandez looked up with a smile. "Well then, Henry, it totals to 2,582 grams. Are you prepared to proceed with the transaction?"

"Absolutely," Henry affirmed, his confidence unwavering.

"Just a moment," Mister Fernandez interjected, busying himself with the task of preparing the necessary documentation. "Here's the check. I apologize for not being able to provide cash on hand, as we're running low on liquidity for daily operations."

Henry accepted the check graciously, understanding the constraints of business operations. "Thank you, Mister Fernandez. Your accommodation is greatly appreciated."

Examining the figures on the check, Henry's eyes betrayed him from surprise even if he had anticipated such price. "5.938 million pesos! Did I perhaps misjudge the value of my coins?"

Mister Fernandez chuckled warmly, shaking his head. "Not in the slightest, Henry. Your gold coins are worth every peos!"

"Great! Then, I can continue to trade my gold coin here without worries. I hope I can do that." Henry said aloud.

"Why not? Did I not made you some preferential treatment?" Mister Fernandez asked.

"True. I just read some articles in the internet that this kind of deal is not truly legal, wasn't it?" Henry inquires.

"Don't worry about that. That's my business. What you need to do is, if you have more of these coins, sell it to me." The owner assured.

"Alright, I'll take your word as a promise." Henry said ending the conversation with great satisfaction to both ends.

Henry strolled purposefully towards the DSH Bank, as he anticipated the forthcoming discussion about the check he had received from Mister Fernandez.

"This bank is huge!" Henry can only compliment the said building as there are people elegantly do their thing with some clerks that deals with their business.

He can see the clerk smiles which feels that they are accomodating to. A sense of reassurance washed over him as he approached the clerk and announced his name, promptly being ushered into the manager's office.

Seated across from the manager, Henry couldn't help but admire the distinguished appearance of Manager Felix, whose welcoming smile instantly put him at ease.

Rising from behind his desk with an air of professionalism, Manager Felix extended a courteous greeting. "Good afternoon, Mr. Ramirez. I am Manager Felix. Please, have a seat."

Returning the smile, Henry settled into his chair, the check from Mister Fernandez safely nestled in his pocket. "Good afternoon, sir. Thank you for meeting with me," he offered cordially.

The manager's attentive expression conveyed a sense of earnestness as he acknowledged Henry's presence. "Of course, Mr. Ramirez. I understand you have a matter you'd like to discuss regarding the check?"

With a nod, Henry reached into his pocket to retrieve the check, his gaze steady as he presented it to the manager. "Yes, that's correct. I recently received this check from Mister Fernandez this morning, and I was hoping to deposit some as I want to open an account here. I just need 2 million for my business transaction."

Manager Felix's eyebrows raised ever so slightly in recognition as he accepted the check from Henry, his experienced gaze scanning over it with meticulous attention to detail. "Ah, yes. We were notified about this check. Mister Fernandez is a valued client of ours."

"Thank you for patronizing this bank. I will let my clerk assist you with the filling of the needed documents as I prepare to withdraw what you need for the time being," Manager Felix assured Henry, his tone imbued with professionalism and courtesy.

As the clerical procedures commenced, Henry couldn't help but feel relief. With each document signed and every detail attended to, the process unfolded smoothly, guided by the expertise of the bank's staff.

"It appears that everything is in order, Mr. Ramirez. We'll be happy to process this deposit for you," Manager Felix announced, his tone congenial as he handed back the check to Henry.

Exhaling a sigh of relief, Henry expressed his gratitude to the manager. "Thank you, sir. I appreciate your help."

With a warm smile, Manager Felix nodded in acknowledgment. "It's our pleasure, Mr. Ramirez. And if you ever need assistance with any other banking matters, please don't hesitate to ask."