The Royal Palace meeting room.
The decoration of the house is carved with solid gold. Dominating the walls were huge tapestries depicting scenes of victory and prosperity, its threads woven with gold and silver, each detail carefully crafted. At the center of the room is a long, mahogany table inlaid with mother-of-pearl, and chairs with plush, embroidered cushions. Several people are sitting in the chairs.
"Now let's start, I have read all the documents you sent. I'm interested in some of the things mentioned in the document, especially the part where the Empire will set up military bases in this country and lease some of our islands. Second, regarding the oil search, I don't know what kind of oil they are looking for. I thought this oil was used for candle making, cooking and painting. Also, a military base can have some negative consequences for the government. "
"Hmm... This would greatly affect the trust of the nobles and citizens of this kingdom, most people might consider it a threat." Duke Mangton was the one who said this.
Duke Mangton is the head of the army of Britannia Kingdom. He has been performing this duty for two generations. He is currently in his fifties. But still, he is Britannia's most powerful Swordmaster. He is also called The Lion of Britannia who led Britannia to victory in many battles. He is also Queen Maria's uncle.
"Yes, but Sir Mangton, they will invest a large amount of gold coins in our country. It will accelerate the progress of our country," said Count Sam.
"But the biggest problem here is how do you get the approval of citizens and other dignitaries?"
"Your Majesty, I have already thought about this. Then I'll tell you why this permission should be granted."
Marquess Milana began to explain "The reason is very simple, Your Highness, it is to add protection. Recently the Super Powers have started turning their attention to the continent of Ostra. Such as the Indiana Empire and the Anniliess Empire. Who have begun to expand their boundaries. It is a threat to us. So we need the Empire's help. Allowing them to establish a military base here would further strengthen the alliance between the Britannia Kingdom and The Empire. This is also done to avoid a clash with them, as their military is highly technologically advanced and strong enough to wipe this kingdom off the map."
"Therefore, allowing them to establish military bases here increases our country's defence capabilities and eliminates the possibility of going to war against them."
"So, you're saying that you fear The Empire's military. Even though they have no record of military conflict against other countries. I see it as an insult to our Kingdom. But still, I don't know what you saw in that country, but I also know you don't lie. " Mangton said looking at Milana. Waiting for an answer.
"I knew you wouldn't believe this, but when they first came, they showed us their weapons and technology. You have already seen what destructive power it had, imagine, if we go up against this weapon. What will be our advantage to win? What they showed us was a very small fraction of their power."
"...."
"That's right. Their ships are also the size of a small island. Our navy has no chance. Their cannons have a range of several kilometres; we will be destroyed before we can reach them."
Mangton said. Although he was a powerful General, he was not one to ignore the truth. He realized that their forces were weak and he was not ashamed to admit it.
"Besides.... they have a more powerful mage than me." Lyra, who had been silent all this time, opened her mouth.
His words created a buzz in the room.
"After seeing and hearing about their strength, I wouldn't doubt it. It's only natural that they would have mages stronger than S rank."
"In my opinion, their mages will be on par with the Grand mages of the Super countries."
"Hmm..."
"But now the problem is how you will get the support of other nobles and citizens for this treaty." said the Prime Minister with concern.
Then a sound of laughter was heard in the room. It was Marquis Nile.
"Marquis Nile, is there anything funny here?" Duke Barco said in a stern tone.
"Don't take it as disrespect, Duke. But we have our own way of winning the trust of the other nobles and the people. We are in power. They will believe what we tell the people. There is nothing to worry about and if any of the other nobles oppose it, we have many ways to deal with it. "
"...About it! I never thought you had a smug attitude."
"Hmm. But the Empire has made us a great offer. We can't risk losing this offer. 500,000 gold coins is a lot. With this money and Empire technology, we can become the most powerful nation on the continent of Ostra. "
"Your Highness, not only strong we might be able to increase the size of our country several times." Duke Barco said with a proud smile.
"Duke, we shouldn't dream so much right now. The engagement will take place in three days. I'm thinking of signing the contract after that."
"Hmm....that's good."
"Also, I heard there will be some special guests from the Torantum Commonwealth at the engagement ceremony. Is that true?"
"Ah! In this matter, it is true. They are our neighbours in the East. But I also didn't expect them to send some high-ranking people to attend the event. "
"Huh! It's very strange. They never did this before. Super countries usually send some ambassadors with some gifts at the invitation of countries like ours. But I think there is a definite reason behind this exception. "
Queen Maria said, massaging her forehead. "You're right. But we can't do anything about it. They're much stronger than us."
"This is why I say our pact with the Empire is so important."