Make a Counteroffer

"Not so fast," You said, "Quite frankly, even though your offer sounds good, it's... underwhelming."

You derive some satisfaction at seeing a drop of cold sweat on Bogdan's forehead.

"We've many grievances against the Kingdom of Frindia, and I'm afraid the mere offer of alliance alone is insufficient," You said, "Therefore, I will have to ask a steeper price of your Kingdom."

"And what would that price entail?" Asked Bogdan.

"A city," You said.

This time, it is the Frindian side that whispers in a wave of hot and teeth-grinding curses and questions, filled with doubt and confusion over your request. Even Bogdan trembles slightly at the suddenness and absurdity of your request, more cold sweat forming on his eyebrow.

Eventually, Bogdan asks, "Kaiser Xarric... which city do you want, and why do you want a city in the first place?"

"To answer in order, the city of Koszale," You said, "And... considering just who is visiting me right now, all the historical baggage between us and the matter you've conveniently come at a time when Danubia and Ganadonia have united into the Empire of Hasounga... I'd say I have every single reason to either demand such a price, or take your head in exchange."

"This is daylight robbery!" Exclaimed a female Frindian officer.

"Lyuba, no, not here," Said Bogdan.

"But-"

"No buts."

The Frindian woman named Lyuba reluctantly remained silent.

Yet, it was not wrong to say it was a high price to pay; the city of Koszale, located on the very periphery of the eastern Frindian border between three nations, was a strategically important strongpoint from which one could easily launch offensives to encompass much of the surrounding regions. Lying on an important trade nexus, the fortress-city benefited from rich trade and frequent visitors be it simple merchants or visiting diplomats, also making it a hub of information that could richly benefit intelligence agencies.

And five years ago, after a disastrous attack and the wicked rule of a corrupt noble left the city completely destroyed beyond recognition with the surrounding forts, Bogdan ordered a complete renovation from the ground up, after ruthlessly purging the noble in question and all his associates.

Hiring travelling Dwarven masons, skilled mages and the best civil engineers, the city of Koszale underwent a complete transformation from a ruin to a thriving fortress-city upon whose walls enemies would crumble like water on a rock.

And in the past two years, despite at least a dozen sieges and campaigns, no one had ever come close to conquering it. And through those battles, Koszale had transformed into a true fighting city feared and respected and desired by all, you included.

"So as you can see, Prime Minister Bogdan, I do not overcharge by half," You said, "This city of Koszale is in fact a most reasonable price for your proposed alliance. Refuse this, and I have every single reason to refute your offer of alliance."

The Frindians are extremely flustered over this despite their attempts to remain composed, while your own officials look at you with no small amount of respect.

Olga, Chloe and Matilda look at you with eyes of respect and admiration, and sneaking snide glances at the Frindian delegation.

"So, Prime Minister Bogdan, do you accept my offer?" You asked.

Bogdan heaved a sigh, saying, "I have to admit, I was not expecting you to be so ferocious in court, Kaiser Xarric. And... much as I hate to admit it, we do need this alliance. So yes, we accept."

Mutters of surprise erupt on both sides, though it is clear that this is a bitter pill for the Frindians to swallow.

It is a sweet victory for you - however minor it is - and the first stepping stone to preparing for an eventual war with the Frindians.