Chapter 313 Redrawing the Border
Riz smiled, relieved that Nelson was willing to cooperate. "I have faith in your commitment, Nelson," he said. "However, I'm not finished talking yet."
Nelson looked nervously at Riz, wondering what else he had to say besides the debt issue they discussed. "D-did you have something else to say?" he asked cautiously.
Riz leaned forward, his expression serious yet reassuring. "Yes, I do," he replied. "I know it will take a very long time for you to settle the debt, and I understand the financial strain it may put on your kingdom. Fortunately, I have an alternative method to lighten your burden."
Nelson's eyes widened with interest and curiosity. "An alternative method?" he repeated, leaning in to listen intently.
"Yes, it's simple," Riz nodded, meeting Nelson's gaze firmly. "You can forfeit some of your territory to me."
Nelson's face contorted with surprise and disbelief. "Forfeit my territory?" he echoed, taken aback by the unexpected proposal. "But that would mean the size of my kingdom to be reduced."
"It's not as bad as it sounds," Riz reassured him. "Let me show you," he said, ringing a bell to call for assistance.
Soon after, Theodora's personal maid, Anna, appeared, her demeanour respectful as she approached the two kings.
"Your Majesty," Anna curtsied to Riz.
"Anna, please fetch us a map of the region," Riz requested.
"Of course, Your Majesty," Anna replied with a nod before quickly leaving to fulfil the request.
A few moments later, Anna returned with a large map, which she carefully unrolled on the table before the two kings. The map displayed the territories of both Ryntum and Naharog, along with the surrounding regions.
"As you can see," Riz began, pointing to specific areas on the map, "I'm not asking for a large city. Just the undeveloped land in the southern part of your kingdom. In exchange, I will return the city of Szazki that is currently in our possession. It originally belong to you anyway."
Nelson hesitated, clearly torn between the idea of giving up his land. "I understand your words clearly," he said slowly. "But, I need to think about it first."
"I understand your concerns," Riz replied, his tone earnest. "This isn't a decision to be made lightly, and I won't pressure you to give your answer right away. So, take your time to think it over," Riz said, giving Nelson the space he needed. "I don't expect an immediate answer. Discuss it with your advisors and consider this through."
Nelson nodded, grateful for Riz's understanding. "Thank you," he said sincerely. "I'll take some time to consult with my advisors before reaching a decision."
"Of course," Riz replied, standing up from his seat. "I'll be waiting for your response."
With that, Riz bid farewell to King Naharog, leaving him with much to contemplate. Anna discreetly rolled up the map and left the room, following him closely behind.
Riz made his way back to his own office in the mansion. Regardless of what Nelson thinks, Riz is sure that the king of Naharog would accept his offer.
As Riz entered his office, he spread the map of the region onto his table.
The borders needed careful consideration, especially with the addition of potential new territory gained from the war.He took out a quill and ruler, beginning to trace the existing borders on the map.
His mind was focused on analyzing the terrain, considering the demographics of the region, and evaluating the strategic importance of each area.
He tries his best to ensure each province has a reasonably same area.
Riz knew that with greater territory came the need for better management and governance or else revolt might happen and the said territory break away from his kingdom, just like how Ryntum gained independence by breaking up from its overlord, Napuna Dynasty.
Hours passed and in the late hours of the evening, Riz leaned back in his chair, the map now showing the revised borders with the addition of new provinces.
Suddenly, a gentle knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. "Riz, are you in there?" came a feminine voice from the other side. It wasn't the usual voice of Charlotte or Theodora, but that of Josephine, his stepmother.
Riz raised an eyebrow in surprise. It was indeed rare for Josephine to seek him out in his office. "Come in, Mother Josephine," he called out, welcoming her inside.
Riz straightened his posture as the door opened, revealing the warm smile of Mother Josephine. As the matriarch of the Ryntum royal family, she commanded respect and admiration from all who knew her.
Josephine entered with her usual grace, a warm smile adorning her face. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything important," she said, taking a seat across from him.
"Not at all," Riz replied, setting the map aside. "I was just reviewing the new provinces we've gained after the victory in war. It's quite a task to redraw the borders and plan for their governance."
Josephine's inquisitive eyes met Riz's, her curiosity was evident. "So, I assume the war is over?" she asked.
Riz nodded, acknowledging Josephine's interest in the war's conclusion. "Yes, that's my thought as well, but I must wait until the diplomats I've sent return with the final reports before making any official announcements," he explained. "What did you come here for?"
"I want to talk about your wedding with Theodora," Josephine replied with a warm smile.
Riz's frown deepened when Josephine brought up the topic of his wedding with Theodora. "There's really nothing much to discuss, Mother Josephine," he said, trying to brush off the subject. "I have entrusted all the arrangements to you and Fiona. You both have impeccable taste, and I trust your judgment in handling everything."
Josephine sighed, understanding her son's reluctance to delve into wedding plans amidst the recent war. "I know, I know. All the preparations have been completed," she said.
"The problem is when to hold the wedding. As you know, it was supposed to be this month, but the war disrupted the plan. So, I was wondering when would be a suitable time."
He paused for a moment, deep in thought. "Perhaps we can aim for a wedding in the next few months," he suggested. "By then, the kingdom should be in a better state. As for a specific date, I will leave it to you as usual."
Josephine nodded approvingly. "That sounds reasonable to me," she agreed.
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