Mayor Lazo wasted no time in seizing the momentum. On the next day, he resolved to continue the campaign by focusing on conquering the remaining Inverloch territories in the east, particularly the lands that once belonged to the Vofors Republica.
The prospect of reclaiming these territories held great significance for Ryntum, as they would solidify the kingdom's control over a vast expanse of land and resources in the east.
Aware of the urgency of the situation, Samuel Lazo understood that this was an opportune moment that could not be squandered. After all, the majority of the Inverloch soldiers are busy with the war. If he allowed the chance to slip away, the fertile land would be seized in a blink of an eye.
Thus, he marshalled his forces and embarked on a daring expedition to secure the coveted region. The journey was marked by the vast expanse of fertile plains stretching as far as the eye could see.
As Mayor Lazo's forces pressed deeper into the territory, their eyes widened with surprise when they stumbled upon a formidable army. Their initial assumption was that they had come face-to-face with the enemy, ready to engage in a fierce battle. The atmosphere quickly becomes tense.
"Wait! Wait! Don't shoot!" the commander shouted, "We are soldiers of Inver," he declared, his tone resolute yet tinged with weariness.
The tension that had once gripped Ryntum's soldiers slowly dissipated, giving way to a sense of cautious ease as the soldiers before them proclaimed themselves to be from Inver.
One by one, the Ryntum soldiers gradually lowered their rifles and assumed less defensive postures.
"Inver? What are you doing here?" asked the mayor, his voice tinged with a mix of surprise and confusion. He was unaware of the secret negotiations and the deal that had been made between King Isaac and his own king.
The commander from Inver took a moment to gather his thoughts before responding, his tone measured and cautious. "We are here after successfully capturing the city of Norish. Our intention is to expand our presence a bit further to the north, securing some fertile lands for ourselves."
The mayor's brows furrowed as he exchanged a brief glance with his soldiers.
The implications of Inver's intentions weighed heavily on their minds. They too sought to secure the fertile lands for their own cause, recognizing the strategic importance it held.
Samuel Lazo, standing among his troops, finally spoke up. "We too have recognized the value of these lands and have made our move. However, we also understand the importance of diplomacy and peaceful resolutions. As allies, perhaps we can find common ground."
The commander from Inver nodded, acknowledging the shared understanding. "Indeed, that would be the best. We don't think it will be easy to beat you," he said while glancing at riffles that rested in the hand of Ryntum's soldiers.
"So, what would you suggest?" the mayor inquired, curious to hear the commander's proposal.
"I suggest that Inver claim a portion of the southern part of Vofors," the commander suggested, his tone measured. "It would provide us with the resources we need while allowing Ryntum to retain control over a significant portion of the land. We seek a fair distribution that benefits both our nations."
Lazo shook his head slightly, a thoughtful expression on his face. "That seems a bit too much," he responded. "The Phoenix Forest mainly lies in the south, just adjacent to your kingdom. Since you have already gained control over the city of Norish, which is surrounded by fertile lands, it would mean that you have already obtained the best quality of land available. If you take too much of the Vofors portion of the land, Ryntum would be left with little more than the leftover territories."
The commander's brows furrowed as he weighed Mayor Lazo's words. He understood the validity of the mayor's concern and the need for a balanced arrangement. "You make a fair point," he admitted.
However, he remained hesitant to fully acquiesce. The fertile lands held great potential for Inver's expansion, and he was reluctant to relinquish them entirely.
As such, the negotiation continued. The atmosphere grew increasingly tense. Both sides presented their arguments and counterarguments. Each leader fought fiercely for the interests of their respective nations, unwilling to yield ground easily.
Hours passed as they debated, analyzing maps, and calculating the potential benefits and losses. Tension began to rise among both armies as both armies tries to intimidate one another.
Luckily, after much deliberation, a consensus began to emerge.
For the sake of finding common ground, the mayor was willing to cede a portion of the fertile lands to Inver In return, Ryntum will take the rest of the available lands.
With a nod of acceptance, the two leaders reached a mutual understanding.
To cement their commitment, they proceeded to sign a formal agreement. The document would serve as proof of them dividing the lands for themselves.
As the ink dried on the agreement, Mayor Lazo and the commander exchanged relieved smiles even though there is some tension still lingered.
"I hope this agreement will ensure a peaceful coexistence between our nations," Mayor Lazo remarked, his voice filled with a sense of optimism.
The commander nodded in agreement. "Indeed, I too hope that there's no dispute between us later down the line."
Both armies set to work, collaborating to build border boundaries that would demarcate their respective territories.
Soldiers from Inver and Ryntum laboured side by side, constructing sturdy fences and markers that would serve as a physical representation of the newly established borders.
They need to do this quickly as a cautious measure to prevent each from secretly encroaching on other territories. Although there is an agreement that clearly stated each nation's boundary, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Meanwhile, a portion of Ryntum soldiers began to spread out under the order of Mayor Lazo into their newly acquired territories, moving from village to village. Their primary objective was to conduct thorough searches to identify any potential enemies hiding within.
[A/N: Map]
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