In early spring, while the people of Bagnia were busy plowing and sowing, negotiations that would determine the fate of two nations were underway in the meeting hall of the Foreign Affairs Committee in Votradnoi.
"Esteemed representatives..."
Ambassador Alvarez wore a black worsted wool dress coat with only a Griffin Crest pinned to his chest. Sweat beaded on his forehead as he leaned forward slightly, speaking urgently to the people seated opposite him with pleading sincerity.
"We fully understand the mistakes made during the winter negotiations. They were by no means a slight against Bagnia's warriors, merely... merely some delays in our domestic procedures.
"We now come with the utmost sincerity. Not only are we willing to pay hiring fees far above the previously agreed amount, enough gold to fill your ships' holds,
"but we are also willing to set aside a coastal tract on Casarina Island, the jewel of our wealthy colonies, complete with a natural harbor, and grant it to Bagnia as your permanent territory with full rights of use. Surely this demonstrates our friendship and respect..."
He placed particular emphasis on the word friendship, looking at the people opposite him expectantly, desperate to see the expressions he hoped for... but he saw none.
Lynch, a player and the Kingdom of Bagnia's minister of commerce, was watching Ambassador Alvarez with an expressionless face.
He felt that today's negotiations were truly a waste of his valuable working hours.
But there was nothing he could do. Even knowing this was a waste of time, Lynch had to attend, because it was his job.
Lynch turned to glance at his colleagues. Sterling from the Department of Foreign Affairs and the representative of the Military Affairs Department both sat perfectly straight, their faces expressionless.
Lynch knew they felt the same way he