The grand hall remained eerily silent as all eyes turned to Princess Lena. The weight of her father's words hung in the air like a heavy fog. She took a deep breath, steadying herself before she rose gracefully from her seat.
"Father," Lena began, her voice calm yet firm, "I have listened to the arguments presented, and while I understand the concerns of our advisors and the nobility, I believe this alliance is a necessary step. The dangers posed by Eru, their actions, and the looming threat of the Dragonborn cannot be ignored. If we do not act now, we risk the collapse of all that Omi stands for."
A murmur rippled through the room, but the King gestured for silence, allowing Lena to continue.
"However," she said, her gaze sweeping over the gathered nobles, "I do not believe this alliance should come at the cost of our independence or our identity. If we are to ally with Wize, it must be on terms that reflect our strength and honor, not our submission."
Queen Vivian smiled faintly, her eyes gleaming with approval. "Well said, my daughter. And what terms would you suggest?"
Lena hesitated for a moment, knowing the weight of her next words. "If I am to marry King Jai, it must be with conditions that secure Omi's sovereignty and ensure that our people benefit from this alliance. I propose a formal treaty outlining the terms of cooperation, including military support, trade agreements, and shared governance over any territories gained from Eru. Furthermore, I would insist on retaining the right to rule as Queen of Omi, even if I become Queen of Wize."
The room erupted into whispers. Some were astonished by her boldness, while others nodded in agreement.
"That's preposterous!" Lady Laxe exclaimed, stepping forward. "No ruler would ever agree to such terms. It's an insult to their power!"
"An insult?" Lena countered, her voice sharp. "Or a demonstration of strength? If King Jai truly seeks a partnership, he will respect these terms. If not, then perhaps he does not value this alliance as much as we assume."
Azarel Marlock stroked his beard thoughtfully. "Princess Lena raises a valid point. A treaty of this nature would solidify our position and prevent Wize from gaining undue influence over our affairs. It is a risk, but one worth taking."
Lady Felicia Balor inclined her head. "I must agree. A union that preserves our independence while ensuring mutual benefit is far more appealing than blind submission."
King Stefan studied his daughter intently, his expression unreadable. Finally, he nodded. "Very well, Lena. You have spoken wisely, and I will consider your proposal. However, much depends on King Jai's response. We must tread carefully."
"Your Majesty," General Boise interjected, "if I may suggest, it would be wise to prepare contingencies in case the negotiations fail. We cannot rely solely on the goodwill of Wize."
The King nodded. "Agreed. Begin preparations for increased fortifications along our borders. If this alliance falls through, we must be ready to defend ourselves against both Eru and Wize."
"Yes, Your Majesty," General Boise replied with a bow.
The tension in the room eased slightly as the discussion shifted to logistical matters. Queen Vivian leaned toward Lena, her voice low. "You've done well, my dear. But be prepared—this is only the beginning. King Jai is not a man to be easily swayed."
"I understand, Mother," Lena replied. "But I will not let Omi fall into subjugation, no matter the cost."
The meeting concluded with a sense of uneasy resolution. Orders were given, plans set in motion, and the nobles began to disperse. Lena lingered, her mind racing with thoughts of the challenges ahead.
As she stepped out into the cool evening air, a voice called out to her.
"Princess Lena," General Kindel said, approaching with a respectful bow. "If I may speak freely?" Bale said.
"Of course, General," Lena replied, glancing briefly at Gor who stared at his father, his gaze unwavering.
Bale pretended like he didn't see anything and spoke.
"You are brave to stand your ground in the face of such opposition," he said. "But we have to be cautious. King Jai is a formidable man, and his ambitions may not align with ours. If you are to negotiate with him, you must be prepared for anything."
Lena nodded, her resolve hardening. "Thank you, General. I will not underestimate him."
"I know you won't my Lady, that's why I've come with a proposal" General Bale Kindel said.
"What is it?" Princess Lena asked.
"I'm sorry if I may sound rude, but chances are the negotiations with Jai would fail." Bale said
"Why do you say that?" Lena asked. "Is there something that I'm not aware of?" Princess Lena asked.
"No, not really. But I know Jai, he's a man that likes to play games, and right now, the game for him will be more fun if he refuses your proposal. After all, there's nothing much you can do about it." Bale replied.
"Fortunately, there is another option for us," Bale said
"What is it?" Princess Lena asked.
"The Prince of Wize, the son of King Ken, who Jai killed to take the throne, is still alive" Bale said.
"Princess Lena raised her brow. I'm very much aware of this fact General".
"Yes, I'm not finished. He has allied himself with Wize and is planning on taking his country back from Jai. But what most people don't know is that, the young prince has met with the princess of Eru, and they are now planning to take back the Kingdom together".
Lena frowned, "what do you mean by the princess of Eru? Eru has no princess. The Phoenix queen doesn't have a child.... Does she?" Princess Lena asked.
"Actually as of two months ago, she does. And she's someone you know. It's Thia, the girl that save your life during the assassination attempt."
Princess Lena opened her eyes in shock when she heard what Bale said.