Chapter 77: Meeting with the Ambassador of Lebresta
“Well, well. To think you would come all the way to such a remote place in person,” the ambassador of the Forest Country remarked with a hint of surprise.
“Lord Tiariada, it’s been a while. I never imagined you would be stationed here,” replied Agritend Luvania, the representative of the delegation.
They were in the embassy of the Forest Country, Lebresta, located in the East Gate city. The two were engaged in a polite exchange, probing each other’s circumstances.
“Hmm. It has been a few years since my reassignment. I had almost forgotten about Terek Port Town. I was beginning to worry that it might have perished,” Tiariada continued.
“That’s no joke… but it’s true, I appreciate your concern. We’ve had our share of troubles, but we are managing,” Agritend responded, maintaining the light-hearted banter.
While they continued their seemingly innocuous conversation, both representatives were subtly assessing the state of affairs in their respective regions. However, they were not there to negotiate any specific conditions; it was more of a diplomatic greeting.
“By the way… is there a particular reason you made the effort to visit our country?” Tiariada inquired after a while.
After some casual exchanges, the ambassador of Lebresta shifted the conversation. This was an expected turn of events; Agritend had confirmed beforehand that formalities were essential when dealing with the people of Lebresta. While it felt tedious, it was prudent to avoid unnecessarily offending the other party.
“Ah, indeed. The truth is, I have someone I would like to introduce to you, which is why I came here,” Agritend explained.
“…Oh? You came all the way here from Terek Port Town?” Tiariada raised an eyebrow.
“Yes. May I call them in?” Agritend asked.
The Forest Country was a powerful nation, and its ambassadors held significant status, accompanied by the education befitting their rank. They were fluent in the language of the other nations and understood the subtle nuances of communication.
Thus, even if a representative from Terek spoke with a southern accent in Afrasian, they would grasp the meaning accurately.
“…If you say so, then please introduce them,” Tiariada replied, his demeanor shifting to one of heightened vigilance.
The person Agritend wished to introduce was none other than Dreißig=Ringo, the esteemed representative of Paraiso, whom Agritend held in high regard.
“Allow me to introduce myself. I am Dreißig=Ringo, representative of Paraiso. Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today.”
Upon receiving permission to enter, Dreißig stepped into the reception room. The moment Tiariada laid eyes on her, his eyes widened slightly in surprise. He quickly rose from his seat and walked over to greet her.
This was a favorable reaction, one that had been anticipated. There was a possibility he might have remained seated, which would have been less than ideal.
“Well, well. I am Tiariada Eremes, the chief ambassador of the Forest Country. You came all the way from Terek Port Town?” he asked, astonished.
Dreißig nodded, prompting a sigh of admiration from Tiariada.
“I see. You’ve traveled quite a distance to be here. It is indeed a fortunate day to meet someone of your caliber.”
As he spoke, Tiariada extended his hand. A handshake was a universal sign of friendship across the continent. Dreißig firmly grasped his hand in return.
“It is a pleasure to meet you, Chief Ambassador Tiariada. If I may, shall we conduct negotiations regarding the Forest Country through you?”
“…Hmm. Yes, that would be fine. As long as it concerns the Afrasia United Kingdom, I have full authority to represent my country,” Tiariada affirmed, escorting Dreißig to a sofa.
“And what about you? Is Paraiso a nation? I have never heard of it before,” he inquired.
“Allow me to explain. Whether Paraiso qualifies as a nation depends on the definition. If it is based on independence from other powers and maintaining our own influence, then yes, Paraiso is a nation. However, in terms of recognition from other countries, we have none. Currently, the only nation we are actively contacting is the Afrasia United Kingdom, making your country our second point of contact.”
This had been a pre-discussed topic with Kuravia Terek. To negotiate with a nation, one must demonstrate strength. However, this did not equate to flaunting military power. It was essential to establish that Paraiso was an independent entity with sufficient military capability for self-defense. Above all, it was crucial to provide goods suitable for trade, leveraging the reputation of Terek Port Town as a backdrop.
“Then, are you saying that Paraiso wishes to negotiate with my homeland as a nation?” Tiariada asked.
“Affirmative. However, we are not well-versed in your customs. We are willing to take our time to align our understanding. I have been granted full authority to negotiate on behalf of Paraiso,” Dreißig replied.
“Interesting. That is quite bold of you,” Tiariada remarked, a slight smile gracing his lips. It was unclear whether his expression conveyed admiration or disdain, as the nuances were too subtle to analyze.
“Well, such negotiations are indeed the work of diplomats like us. I have no particular objections. However, if any significant doubts arise, you will be the one to decide?”
“Essentially, yes. However, I do have a means of communication with my headquarters. I do not typically use it, but I can reach out whenever necessary.”
“Ah, I see. Very well. Then… since we have time, let us take this opportunity to learn more about each other. Serious negotiations can commence tomorrow,” Tiariada suggested.
“I agree. There is much we do not know about your country, as well as about you,” Dreißig replied.
By the way, the responses being provided through the Communicator were managed by the strategic AI housed within the Multi-legged Ground Mother Unit (GMS-E-01), stationed away from the town. The machines accompanying this delegation, under the command of The Tree, were primarily controlled by this strategic AI. During lengthy discussions, RINGO might take direct control, but otherwise, decisions were made by the strategic AI.
“Well then, let’s not waste this opportunity. I’ll have some light refreshments prepared on the terrace. Dreißig, Agritend, you are welcome to join as well. Unfortunately, I cannot offer any alcohol,” Tiariada invited.
This was a gesture of hospitality, indicating a warm welcome. Especially since he included the secretary and the entourage from Paraiso, it was a clear sign of goodwill.
“I would be delighted to join,” Dreißig replied.
“Thank you for your kindness. I would love to accompany you,” Agritend added.
Tiariada signaled to a maid in the corner of the room to prepare, while also calling for the other accompanying members.
“Chief Ambassador Tiariada, I have prepared several trade samples as a token of friendship for your country. Would you like me to present the catalog?” Agritend asked.
“Ah… may I accept it?” Tiariada responded, intrigued.
“Excuse me,” Dreißig said, confirming Tiariada’s permission before retrieving a scroll from her chest. The scroll served a ceremonial purpose, crafted from synthetic paper made from cellulose, designed to be water-resistant. It had a pleasant texture and was compatible with oil-based ink. While water-based ink would typically repel, it seemed that such ink was not commonly available in the Afrasia United Kingdom, so it posed no issue.
“This is…”
As Tiariada examined the catalog, he let out a sound of contemplation. It was unclear whether his reaction was due to the contents listed or the catalog itself. Regardless, it was sure to leave a significant impression of Paraiso.
“The actual items are loaded onto a carriage waiting outside. I would like to arrange for their delivery later,” Dreißig stated.
“Understood. I will guide you after this. Do you require any laborers?” Tiariada asked.
“If it’s just to unload at the designated location, our personnel can manage. However, if they need to be moved elsewhere afterward, it would be better to have someone capable of heavy lifting,” Dreißig explained.
“I see… very well. I will guide you before we head to the terrace. You may enter directly into the rear workshop,” Tiariada replied.
Just as they concluded their discussion, the secretary and the entourage member, Zwanzig, arrived at the reception room.