Meanwhile, while Commander Silaini's troops faced an impenetrable wall and Nura Bayajidda found himself interrogated by Prince Abalu, significant events were unfolding in another part of the world. The judge of Prince Armad had his attention riveted on a singular business endeavor. With strategic precision, he acquired the three largest companies in the town, each playing a crucial role in his grand plan.
One of these companies was a warehouse owned by the shrewd businessman Alhaji Saminu. This warehouse was essential for storing his extensive inventory of goods. The judge, recognizing the importance of this asset, purchased the warehouse on the spot. It wasn't because Alhaji Saminu was in dire need of money, but rather because he sought favor from the influential judge. The judge, understanding the nuances of such alliances, promised Alhaji Saminu that by the next harvest season, the palace would allocate space and funds for him to build another, even more substantial warehouse. Moreover, the judge extended an open invitation for any future favors Alhaji Saminu might require, solidifying their alliance.
Alhaji Saminu, known for his meticulous approach to business, took on the responsibility of refurbishing the three newly acquired companies. The repairs were minimal; a thorough cleaning and some rebranding were all that was needed.
Within a single day, the judge orchestrated the gathering of a thousand robust young people, eventually hiring 600 after rigorous testing. These individuals were selected not only for their ability to read and write but also for their personable nature and potential to build good relationships with future customers. These 600 hires were evenly distributed among the three companies, with each company receiving 200 new employees.
One of the companies was tasked with producing a skin-whitening remedy. However, leveraging his vast experience in business and marketing, the judge decided not to name the product as a mere skin-whitening remedy. Instead, he christened it "A Remedy for 99 Skin Diseases." This clever branding was intended to appeal to a broader market, suggesting a versatile solution for various skin issues. If Prince Armad were to hear the name, he might be unsure whether to laugh at the audacity or cry at the ingenuity because before long the populace will start referring to the product simply as "99," with the rest of the name fading into obscurity.
The second company retained its original designation, an insect repellent, as named by Prince Armad. This product was designed to target any insect, whether it was a distant pest or a parasite on animals. The name remained straightforward and clear, ensuring that its purpose was easily understood by all.
The third company faced a unique challenge. It was tasked with producing a horse stamina remedy. This product, while potentially less marketable than the others, catered to a niche but significant market segment—horse owners. The remedy promised to enhance the stamina and endurance of horses, making it a valuable commodity for those involved in racing, farming, or any activity requiring robust equine performance.
During the days the judge spent preparing the companies, he meticulously ordered a large number of beautifully designed and painted bottles. Each company received these bottles, but the sizes varied according to the product they would contain. The company producing the horse stamina remedy received the largest bottles, signifying the substantial volume needed for this particular product. Meanwhile, the company producing the skin disease remedy received the smallest bottles, highlighting the potency and concentrated nature of their product. The insect repellent company was given medium-sized bottles.
Interestingly, despite the skin disease remedy having the smallest bottles, it was priced the highest, at 50 Airids per bottle. The horse stamina remedy and the insect repellent were both priced at 20 Airids per bottle. This pricing strategy was designed to reflect the perceived value and effectiveness of each product.
Prince Armad initially thought the 50 Airids price tag for the skin disease remedy was excessive. For non-cultivator households, 50 Airids could buy enough food to last more than a month. With 50 Airids, a family could afford three meals a day for 30 days, although this wouldn’t include luxuries like meat, fish, or fruit. Because of that Armad felt that the price for “A Remedy for 99 Skin Diseases” was too high, considering its impact on ordinary households.
However, the judge had a different perspective. He argued that the remedy was not overpriced; in fact, he believed it was quite affordable. The target customers were both cultivators and wealthy commoners. If the price were set lower than 50 Airids, these customers might not perceive it as valuable. For cultivators, 50 Airids was a trivial amount—they could easily earn 200 Airids or more by selling parts of a demonic animal they killed. Thus, 50 Airids was not significant to them.
The judge elaborated on his strategy, explaining that the high price was a way to position the remedy as a premium product. Wealthy customers often equate higher prices with better quality and effectiveness. By setting a higher price, the judge ensured that the remedy would be seen as a superior and desirable product, worthy of the investment.
After considering the judge’s reasoning, Prince compromised and agreed to the price, understanding the strategy behind targeting affluent customers and cultivators. The judge’s insights into market psychology and consumer behavior were crucial in shaping’s decision.
After that, the judge explained to Prince Armad that the 50 Airids remedy was the lowest-priced version. This remedy was diluted by mixing a single pill in 10 drums of liquid. However, there was another, more concentrated, and qualitative version of the remedy that was not diluted as much. The price of this higher-quality remedy was significantly higher, proportional to its concentration. For instance, there was a version where one pill was diluted in just one drum instead of ten, and a single bottle of this remedy cost 500 Airids. The judge emphasized the saying, “Cut your coat according to your size,” meaning customers could choose a remedy that fit their budget and needs. Wealthier customers could opt for the high-quality version capable of curing severe conditions like leprosy, while those simply looking to improve their skin’s appearance could buy the 50 Airids version.
Armad didn’t voice his doubts, but he believed that no one would purchase the 500 Airids remedy due to its high cost. He thought common people wouldn’t be able to afford it, and even if they could, they wouldn’t spend that much money on it. He also assumed that cultivators, who typically didn’t suffer from such diseases, wouldn’t buy it either. However What he didn’t realize was that over 40% of cultivators were female, and many women would be willing to spend a lot of money on something that would enhance their beauty. The judge didn’t elaborate on this point, choosing to keep it to himself.
On this particular day, the judge was at the company producing the “Remedy for 99 Skin Diseases.” He did not visit the other two companies, instead assigning Alhaji Saminu as his assistant to oversee them. The judge wanted to leverage Saminu’s business intellect and experience, recognizing that Saminu had risen from obscurity to become a successful businessman. The judge planned to use Saminu’s skills to distribute the remedies to different towns.
Nearly two days before the launch, the judge ensured that journalists were well-informed about the new remedies. They were paid to advertise the products and the upcoming launch day. As a result, there wasn’t a single corner of Tiriba where news of the remedy hadn’t reached. The entire town was abuzz with anticipation, eagerly awaiting the launch of these innovative products.
According to the detailed description, “A Remedy for 99 Skin Diseases” is a potent solution designed to address a wide range of skin ailments. It guarantees that any skin disease falling within its specified 99 categories will be effectively cured. The marketing materials emphasize that this remedy is the ultimate solution for various skin conditions, ensuring comprehensive care for anyone who uses it.
Similarly, the “Horse Stamina Remedy” is presented as a transformative product for horse owners and users. The advertising asserts that regardless of a horse’s initial lethargy or underlying health issues, this remedy will revitalize the animal, enabling it to perform tasks with unprecedented vigor. It claims that tasks that would typically take a month for a horse to complete could be accomplished in just a single day after consuming one bottle of the remedy. This remedy is particularly attractive to farmers, horse carriage operators, and riders who rely heavily on their horses for labor. In the community, horses are essential for farming, as manual farming is not the norm. However, these horses often tire quickly, posing a significant challenge. The remedy’s promise to enhance a horse’s stamina and endurance at a relatively low cost was heavily advertised in local newspapers, specifically targeting these groups.
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Additionally, the insect repellent remedy was marketed as a powerful solution for eradicating farm insects. The advertisements promised that any farm insect would be eliminated within a day of applying the remedy. The newspapers confidently claimed that once the remedy was spread, all pests would be found dead by the following day, making it an indispensable product for farmers struggling with pest issues.
Despite these bold claims, many townspeople remained skeptical about the effectiveness of the remedies. They suspected that the journalists were exaggerating the products’ capabilities because they were paid to promote them, not because they genuinely believed in their power. Some people even thought that the journalists were overhyping the remedies out of fear of King Armad, as it was said that the companies producing the remedies were affiliated with the palace. This connection to the palace made the townspeople wary, suspecting that the promotional efforts were driven more by political and financial motives than by the remedies’ actual effectiveness.
Given this widespread skepticism, many townspeople decided to take a cautious approach. They planned to personally investigate the remedies by purchasing a single piece of each to test them. This decision was not based on trust in the advertised claims but rather out of respect for the palace. The townspeople’s cautious approach highlighted a mix of curiosity and deference. They were willing to give the remedies a chance despite their doubts, largely due to the influence of the palace’s reputation.
Early in the morning on the launching day, the streets leading to each of the three companies were bustling with activity. Groups of people stood along the roads, engaging in animated conversations about the new remedies being launched. There was a palpable sense of anticipation in the air, mixed with a fair amount of skepticism. Some had gathered out of sheer curiosity, eager to witness the remedies fail so they could have a good laugh. Others, hopeful yet cautious, wanted to see if the products lived up to their promises.
By 10 o’clock, the entrance gates of the companies swung open, and a large crowd surged forward, eager to enter the premises. The companies had set up a system to manage the influx of people. There were designated lines: one for those intending to buy the remedies and another for onlookers. The buying process was organized; customers were directed to specific counters where they could pay for their desired remedies. Upon payment, they received a paper receipt, which they would then submit to receive their remedy.
Within a couple of hours, the initial rush subsided. Most of the early buyers had already made their purchases and left. The companies’ staff, initially overwhelmed, started to relax as the crowds dwindled. By two o’clock, even the onlookers had dispersed, and the area around the companies became noticeably quieter. Those who had purchased the remedies chose not to test them on the spot, leading to a significant reduction in the crowd.
There was a palpable fear among the people; they worried that if the remedies did not work as advertised, testing them publicly could be seen as a slight against the palace. This fear stemmed from the belief that the palace might retaliate if the remedies were openly criticized. The townspeople were aware of the great possibility that the remedies might not work, or at least not to the extent they had been advertised. Because of this, they were hesitant to conduct any public tests that might embarrass the palace or attract unwanted attention.
Thus, everyone who bought a remedy discreetly put it in their pocket and went home. Despite their curiosity, they were cautious not to cause any trouble with the palace. The general sentiment was that the remedies might not work as promised, and even if they did, it was unlikely they would meet the lofty claims made in the advertisements.
Despite the widespread skepticism and cautious approach of most buyers, one individual stood out with his unwavering determination. This man, though aware of the general doubts surrounding the remedies, chose to take a bold step. Driven by his desperation and hope, he decided to test the remedy, praying that it would bring relief to his suffering child.
This man, deeply troubled by his child’s severe skin condition, had saved up some money to seek a cure. Despite his financial concerns, he was prepared to invest in the remedies. He chose to buy three bottles of the “Remedy for 99 Skin Diseases,” opting for the less expensive version priced at 50 Airids per bottle. He knew that a single bottle might not be sufficient to address his child’s condition fully, so he purchased two additional bottles, hoping that the combined total of three would be effective. He is willing to even spend up to 1,000 Airids for his child’s well-being.
With his heart pounding in anticipation, he returned home to find his wife waiting anxiously. Their child was in another room, sleeping fitfully. The couple had lived in the town all their lives and had witnessed the King’s recent successes and miracles. They hoped that this remedy could be part of the King’s ongoing miracles, despite understanding the slim chances that their hopes would come to fruition.
The husband and wife shared a deep, unspoken bond. Their mutual concern for their child’s health was evident in their solemn expressions. They exchanged a look filled with both hope and apprehension, but words were unnecessary; their emotions were clear.
The husband took out the three bottles of the remedy from his bag and handed them to his wife. She accepted them with both hands, treating them with a reverence that spoke volumes about their hopes and fears. She held the bottles as if they were fragile treasures, fearing they might slip from her grasp.
As they opened the door to their child’s room, a wave of distress washed over them. Their daughter had already woken up, but she barely moved due to the intense pain radiating from her body. Her condition was dire; the rashes covering her skin were severe, and even the slightest touch caused her excruciating pain. At just seven years old, her skin appeared withered and aged far beyond her years, a sight that filled her parents with profound sorrow. The transformation in her skin was so alarming that it sometimes led them to the darkest thoughts, including the notion that their child might be better off free from this relentless suffering, even if it meant death. Nevertheless, their love for their daughter was immense, and they would choose for her to live, despite the pain she endured.
Aware of her frailty and the potential for further emotional trauma, they kept her isolated from other children. They feared that interaction with her peers could lead to further mistreatment and emotional distress, so they chose to shield her from the outside world.
Upon entering the room, they were immediately struck by the foul odor of infected wounds. Despite their usual efforts to make the space more pleasant with perfumes, the overpowering stench of decay lingered stubbornly. The scent was overwhelming, but as devoted parents, they managed to push aside their discomfort and quickly moved to comfort their child. They wrapped her in a gentle, comforting embrace, hoping to soothe her pain with their presence.
After a few moments of tender comfort, they prepared to give her some food. They decided against showing her the bottle of remedy, choosing instead to discreetly pour a measured amount into a cup and offer it to her. The meal was simple, as the child’s condition made eating difficult; the rashes extended to her lips, making it hard for her to open her mouth wide. Her mother carefully poured water into her mouth, assisting her as gently as possible.
The girl took only two hesitant sips of the remedy before shaking her head in refusal. Her mother, distressed by the child’s reaction, placed the cup aside. The parents exchanged worried glances, their hearts heavy with concern. They began discussing the possibility of taking their daughter out of town to seek specialized help. They considered consulting experts or even cultivators who might be able to offer a cure. The idea of leaving their home was daunting, but the thought of their child’s continued suffering spurred them into action.
As they debated their options, they heard a faint sigh from their daughter. Startled, they turned to her with renewed urgency, trying to discern her needs. The girl’s expression seemed to convey a silent plea for comfort or perhaps an adjustment to her current situation. Her parents, driven by their deep love and desperation, turned to her to provide whatever relief they could.
However, to their astonishment, as they watched their daughter closely, they observed that the severe rashes covering her body had begun to heal. Their eyes widened in disbelief, almost as if they were about to fall out. The change was so sudden and unexpected that it left them momentarily speechless. The child, still feeling the effects of the remedy, had mistaken it for plain water due to its lack of any noticeable taste. She had no way of knowing that it was a potent healing solution, as she was unaware of the remedy’s true nature.
The healing effects were unmistakable. The severe wounds caused by the rashes, which had previously marred her skin, were now visibly improving. A particularly nasty wound on her leg, which had been a source of significant pain, was already covered with new, healthy skin. The sight of this transformation filled her parents with a mixture of hope and disbelief.
In their excitement, the father snatched the cup containing the remaining remedy and, without hesitation, poured its contents into their daughter’s mouth while gently covering her nose to ensure she swallowed it. The child, sensing the reduction in her pain and feeling the changes in her body, quickly realized something positive was happening. She swallowed the remedy with newfound eagerness, understanding that it was contributing to her recovery.
Almost immediately, a miracle began to unfold within the room. The rashes on the girl’s body started to disappear at an astonishing rate. The transformation was so rapid and profound that it seemed almost magical. Seeing this incredible improvement, the father hurriedly brought out the remaining two bottles of remedy. He handed them to the girl, who took them with both hands and drank them without delay. The effect was instantaneous and dramatic.
As the remedy took effect, the color of the girl’s skin began to change, transforming into a healthier and more vibrant hue. Her previously pale and afflicted complexion now glowed with a newfound vitality.