Mister Minser owned the only general store in town. He was friends with many of the fan estates, from whom he bought wheat, corn, chicken, and beef. They would often come to give him deals and do business with him. The only people who purchased from his store were the estates servants, except for Mister D, the man who sold him the beef, and chicken. Mister D had 15 children, one of whom was 18 and accompanied his father almost everywhere. There was only one large wheat estate with around, as well as other large estates in the area. Any other wharf estate was at least two hundred milles away.
On a busy day, four businessmen entered his shop. They were the men from whom he had borrowed a loan one year ago in order to purchase a much-needed supply of corn and wheat. However, he was still unable to pay back the loan.
"Look," said one of them, seeming half-asleep, "you need to pay your loan."
Suddenly, there was a shout as someone tried to enter the shop, but the crowd of chating people inside the doorway prevented them.
Mister Minser turned his attention towards the commotion at the entrance of his shop. He noticed a middle-aged man struggling to make his way inside. Observing the man's distressed expression, Mister Minser realized it was Mister D, the man who supplied him with beef and chicken.
"Excuse me, everyone!" Mister Minser called out, trying to calm down the crowd. "Let Mister D through, please!"
The crowd quickly parted, allowing Mister D to enter the shop. He looked flustered and worried, as if something urgent had occurred.
"Mister Minser, I have terrible news," Mister D exclaimed breathlessly. "There's an outbreak of disease in my chicken farm. I've lost a significant amount of my flock, and I fear it might spread to the rest."
Mister Minser's heart sank at the news. Losing his supply of beef and chicken would be disastrous for his general store. It would not only impact his business but also his ability to repay the loan he owed to the businessmen who stood nearby.
"I'm sorry to hear that, Mister D," Mister Minser said, trying to remain composed. "Is there anything I can do to help?"
Mister D shook his head, his expression filled with despair. "I've already consulted with a veterinarian, but the only solution seems to be culling the infected birds. The loss in revenue will be substantial, and I don't know how I'll manage."
The businessmen, who had been patiently waiting for the commotion to settle, overheard the conversation and exchanged concerned glances. They had been waiting for Mister Minser to pay back the loan, but it seemed his financial situation was deteriorating.
One of the businessmen stepped forward and cleared his throat. "Mister Minser, we understand that you're going through a tough time, but we've been more than patient with the repayment of our loan. We need the money to invest in our own businesses."
Mister Minser nodded in acknowledgment but felt a wave of helplessness wash over him. He had hoped that his general store would thrive and provide him with the means to repay the loan, but circumstances beyond his control seemed to be conspiring against him.
"I understand your concerns," Mister Minser replied, his voice tinged with disappointment. "I promise you, I will find a way to repay the loan. Please grant me a little more time, and I will make it right."
The businessmen exchanged skeptical glances but ultimately nodded, giving him a brief extension.
Mister Minser turned his attention back to Mister D, who still looked distraught. "Mister D, I'm truly sorry for your loss. I'll do my best to support you through this difficult time. Perhaps we can find alternative suppliers for the beef and chicken until your farm recovers."
Mister D's face brightened with a glimmer of hope. "Thank you, Mister Minser. Your kindness means a lot to me and my family."
With that, the two men began brainstorming ideas to overcome the challenges they faced. The general store might have been in a precarious situation, but their friendship and determination would serve as a foundation to navigate the difficult times ahead.