Amid the palpable tension and lingering confusion, the imperial palace remained in a state of unsettling instability. It was not just the tangled web of personal affairs within the imperial family that contributed to this unease, but also the lurking fear of betrayal from within. Princess Tanasiri had ceased summoning Ferdiano a few weeks prior, following his candid confession of harboring romantic intentions toward her. Uncomfortable with his advances, especially given her engagement to Prince Hades, the princess had been actively avoiding him. However, fate seemed determined to intertwine their paths once more, as her responsibilities within the imperial council necessitated their inevitable encounters.
Amidst the turmoil, Princess Tanasiri sought solace in the realm of politics, a realm she had turned to amidst the empire's dire shortage of food. Emperor Alistor had tasked her with the weighty responsibility of finding a solution, to which she had willingly acquiesced. As she delved into the complexities of governance, Princess Anna, ever the loyal confidante, offered her unwavering support in this arduous quest for a resolution. The princess found herself immersed in a whirlwind of deliberations and negotiations, her every waking moment consumed by the pressing need to devise a viable path forward for her people.
Inside princess Tanasiri's office...
Princess Tanasiri: Anna, I find myself in a quandary, desperately seeking a viable solution as my options grow scarce. Father has even broached the subject of a looming conflict.
Princess Anna: What about engaging in trade with the neighboring empires?
Princess Tanasiri: Alas, our imperial coffers no longer brim as they once did. Father contemplates a military campaign due to the pressing issue of limited space for our people.
Princess Anna: I comprehend your predicament. The burgeoning populace of your empire does offer the advantage of a substantial pool of potential soldiers in times of conflict.
Princess Tanasiri: However, a larger populace also translates to increased demands for sustenance. The truth is, our empire faces a dearth of arable land and insufficient livestock.
Princess Anna: But I had heard that the Richelieu empire boasted vast expanses of land?
Princess Tanasiri: Indeed, but a majority of it is privately owned.
Princess Anna: I see. Instead of procuring provisions, why not consider acquiring some of those lands?
Princess Tanasiri: Anna, the cost of land in the Richelieu empire far surpasses that in the Caspian empire. Your empire's currency (Nubia) stands distinct from ours (Chryses), and the exchange rate significantly favors your dominion. Acquiring land is a costly endeavor for us. Our imperial coffers only hold around 24,386,000 Chryses, and we cannot bear to part with 16,831,360 for approximately 520 acres.
Princess Anna: What about purchasing land from another empire with a more favorable conversion rate? I have heard of a newly established kingdom near your borders - the Kingdom of Bantam. They have been struggling to defend their land due to a shortage of soldiers. My brother mentioned that their king, Kiah, has been selling parcels of their land to stabilize their economy.
Princess Tanasiri: How did he amass such a significant amount of land with so few men?
Princess Anna: He led a rebellion, losing 800,000 men but securing the throne and a vast expanse of land for his kingdom. However, due to the loss of soldiers and citizens during the conquest, only 6.8 million Bantamese people currently inhabit their kingdom. Reportedly, a mere 46% of them are soldiers, posing challenges in maintaining their extensive land.
Princess Tanasiri: Very well. I shall dispatch an envoy to evaluate the conversion rate of our currencies before extending an offer.
As the princesses delved deep into the affairs of the Kingdom of Bantam, they meticulously studied its vulnerabilities in case the emperor decided to pursue a military conquest instead of negotiating a purchase. While grappling with the pressing issues of food scarcity and land shortages, Prince Lucious found himself entrusted with the command of the imperial army, as Emperor Alistor entertained ambitions of territorial expansion. Anticipating the possibility of a military campaign, Emperor Alistor appointed Prince Lucious as his chief general. Meanwhile, Prince Gabriel assumed the responsibility of devising strategies to replenish the royal coffers, diligently applying himself to this weighty task.
3 days later Princess Tanasiri's men reported the conversion rates to her and she is currently in her office once again with Princess Anna...
Princess Anna: Tana, what is the currency in the Kingdom of Bantam?
Princess Tanasiri: Bantam's currency is known as "Bronya." One chryses is equivalent to 28 bronya.
Princess Anna: I see. This knowledge will undoubtedly facilitate the empire's prospective land acquisition. How much land are you intending to procure again?
Princess Tanasiri: We are contemplating the acquisition of approximately 520 acres, although I anticipate that father may seek to expand our holdings.
Princess Anna: It has been established that in Bantam, 1 acre is valued at a modest 280,000 bronya, or approximately 10,000 chryses. This appears to be a judicious valuation, does it not? It is conceivable that the empire could acquire three to four times the anticipated land area.
Princess Tanasiri: Indeed, Anna. I shall promptly relay this information to father. Your assistance is sincerely appreciated. *smiles*
Princess Anna: It is my pleasure to aid a dear friend. *hug*
The emperor's eyes lit up with delight as Princess Tanasiri presented her ingenious solution for expanding the empire's farmland. Yet, there remained the pressing need for livestock and labor to work the land. Undeterred, the determined princess wasted no time and swiftly arranged a meeting with Prince Gabriel. Their discussion delved into the depths of the imperial treasury, exploring just how much chryses lay within its vaults. The palace hummed with anticipation as the two royals convened to strategize the empire's next steps.
Prince Gabriel: What are your plans for purchasing, sister?
Princess Tanasiri: I intend to acquire farmland for the empire, and father has already given his approval. He suggested purchasing approximately 1,200 acres of farmland for the kingdom.
Prince Gabriel: How much will that cost?
Princess Tanasiri: It's estimated to be around 12,000,000 chryses.
Prince Gabriel: 12,000,000?! My goodness. Fortunately, I've managed to secure additional funds for us. The imperial treasury currently holds 38,976,000 chryses. What about the laborers who will work the land? And what about the livestock? I'm uncertain if we can afford it. *Concerned*
Princess Tanasiri: I'm still uncertain about the laborers... However, I'm already scouting for another empire to purchase livestock from at a reasonable price. I'm confident we can find a solution...
Prince Gabriel: *sighs* Very well... I will find a way to acquire more chryses.
Princess Tanasiri: I already have a plan to obtain some.
Prince Gabriel: How?
Princess Tanasiri: The Vermont clan has been embezzling from the imperial coffers, Gabriel.
Prince Gabriel: What?! Elder sister, are you certain about this? Do you have evidence?
Princess Tanasiri: I will have one of the men send you the imperial records. They have been siphoning off approximately 78% of what should have been in the imperial treasury. If we can present this to father, he will reclaim it and take back the Vermonts' estates. The coffers could potentially be filled with around 600 million chryses.
Prince Gabriel: That's a significant accusation. If you're mistaken, it could damage our reputation *hesitant*
Princess Tanasiri: Gabriel, please trust me. You know I wouldn't accuse anyone without evidence.
Prince Gabriel: Very well. I will conduct further investigation, but please be cautious, okay? We cannot risk alienating the nobles...
Princess Tanasiri found herself in need of additional assistance to replenish both the royal coffers and the ever-dwindling food supply within the kingdom. Turning to her trusted allies, she earnestly sought the support of Princess Anna and Prince Gabriel in this noble endeavor. With unwavering determination, Princess Tanasiri envisioned a collaboration that would not only bring about prosperity but also foster a stronger bond between the two kind-hearted royals. Consequently, the princess's request had a serendipitous effect, leading to frequent encounters between Prince Gabriel and Princess Anna, solidifying their growing camaraderie and mutual respect.
One beautiful day, just after one of their enchanting meetings with Princess Tanasiri, Princess Anna graciously extended an invitation to Prince Gabriel to join her for a delightful tea session in the resplendent imperial garden. The garden was adorned with vibrant blooms and nestled within the embrace of ancient, towering trees. As they strolled through the garden, the sweet fragrance of blossoms filled the air, and the gentle melody of a distant waterfall provided a serene backdrop to their conversation. The sunlight filtered through the lush foliage, casting a dappled pattern on the winding cobblestone pathways. Upon reaching a secluded alcove, they settled into ornate chairs arranged around a quaint table, where a delicate porcelain tea set awaited them. The clinking of the fine china mingled with the rustling of leaves, as they shared stories and laughter against the idyllic backdrop of the imperial garden.
Princess Anna: You're actually not as bad as I thought.
Princess Gabriel: Oh, now I'm offended *he jokingly says and smiles*
Princess Anna: You can't blame me, Gabriel. When we were younger, you were so mischievous and we'd have to lock you in your room to get you to stop.
Prince Gabriel: Yeah, and until now, I'm still pissed off about that.
Princess Anna: *laughs* We should do this more often. Next time, let's invite Tansiri.
Prince Gabriel: I would love to, but as you know, my elder sister is so deep in figuring out how to get enough food supplies.
Princess Anna: Aren't you also busy with filling up the imperial treasury?
Prince Gabriel: Indeed. You're lucky that the Caspian Empire doesn't have any struggles with your coffers.
Princess Anna: Of course, we don't have any problems, as I'm the one managing it. Unlike someone *teases*
Prince Gabriel: Yeah, yeah, you're the best *laughs*
As Prince Gabriel and Princess Anna engaged in lively conversation, little did they know that Prince Lucious was surreptitiously observing them from a distance. From his vantage point, he watched as they shared laughter and smiles, marveling at the genuine connection they seemed to share. Deciding not to interrupt their moment, Prince Lucious quietly made his way back to his chambers, where he found solace in the art of painting.
As he pondered whom to capture on canvas, his thoughts inevitably gravitated towards Princess Anna. Her enchanting presence and captivating demeanor had left an indelible impression on his mind. With a sense of purpose, he meticulously began to paint a remarkable portrait of her, each brushstroke imbued with the depth of his feelings. Amidst the strokes and hues, he found himself grappling with the perplexing question of why her image held such sway over his thoughts.
In the quiet seclusion of his chamber, Prince Lucious poured his emotions onto the canvas, weaving a masterpiece that sought to encapsulate the enigma of Princess Anna. As he meticulously worked on the portrait, he found himself swept up in a whirlwind of contemplation, unable to shake the mesmerizing allure that she seemed to exude.
The hours slipped away as Prince Lucious poured his soul into the painting, each stroke a testament to the captivating allure of the princess who had unknowingly become the muse of his art. As the final brushstroke fell into place, he gazed upon the portrait, seeking answers to the unspoken questions that had taken root in his mind, wondering why she had become an ever-present enigma in his thoughts.
"I find myself consumed by conflicting emotions as I watch Gabriel court her. It's as if I've lost my grip on reality. Why can't I muster any happiness for her and my brother? The discomfort I feel is overwhelming. Perhaps I am losing my mind. I need to gather my thoughts, for the sake of everyone. Lucious, you must find a way to be genuinely happy for them, regardless of your own inner turmoil."
- Prince Lucious
Prince Lucious, torn by conflicting emotions, distanced himself from Princess Anna and Prince Gabriel. Despite genuinely wishing them the best, a pang of jealousy gnawed at his heart. Suppressing his feelings, he chose to quietly observe them from afar as their bond deepened. However, one inevitable force remained - his continuous encounters with Princess Anna. At this very moment, she found herself face to face with him inside the majestic great hall.
Princess Anna: Greetings, Lucious. *Smiles warmly* It has been quite some time since we last crossed paths. I sincerely hope you have been faring well?
Prince Lucious: Yes, Your Highness, I have been well. I have been preoccupied with matters concerning the realm's military affairs.
Princess Anna: I often catch sight of you from a distance. Why is it that you never approach me when I am in the company of others?
Prince Lucious: *Eyes widen in surprise at being addressed directly* W-what do you mean?
Princess Anna: I frequently observe your presence, yet you never come forward. *Looks concerned* Have I perhaps given you cause for hesitation?
Prince Lucious: N-no, Your Highness, you have not erred in any way.
Princess Anna: *Leans in closer* Then why do you seem to avoid me?
Prince Lucious: *looks away* as I've said your highness, I was just busy...
Princess Anna: I see... I'm sorry for misunderstanding. I'll get going now.
As the radiant Princess Anna glided away with effortless grace, Prince Lucious found himself irresistibly compelled to call out to her. The setting sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over the castle grounds, painting a picturesque scene as he watched her delicate figure vanish into the distance. The soft rustle of her gown and the gentle sway of her braided hair added an enchanting rhythm to her departure, leaving the prince enveloped in a bittersweet longing that tugged at the depths of his heart.
Since that unexpected encounter, Princess Anna found herself seeking solace more frequently in the sanctuary of her chambers. Amidst the soft glow of candlelight, she would meticulously craft heartfelt letters to her beloved father and brother, pouring out her innermost thoughts and seeking reassurance in their well-being. As the haunting echoes of war continued to reverberate throughout the kingdom, her correspondence became a beacon of hope, bridging the distance between their hearts and offering a precious glimpse of respite amidst the relentless turmoil.
Meanwhile, Princess Tanasiri found herself entwined in the intricate web of politics and the tumultuous nature of her relationship with Ferdiano. Despite the mounting challenges, she managed to find a moment of respite, allowing herself to become fully immersed in the world of politics. During this period, her focus on Ferdiano temporarily waned, providing her with a much-needed break from the complexities of their relationship.
T.B.C