After delegating the tasks to the brilliant minds of his kingdom, Riz promptly stood up from his seat, signalling the conclusion of the meeting.
As he rose, the researchers and scholars in the room immediately bowed their heads in respect, a show of deference to their monarch.
Riz acknowledged their gestures with a nod of appreciation before making his way towards the exit.
The researchers and scholars parted respectfully, creating a path for their king to pass through.
With firm strides, he made his way towards the exit of the Bideford Research Center.
The echoing sound of his footsteps reverberated through the hallways.
As he approached the entrance of the Bideford Research Center, Eleanor, who has been following him closely from behind stepped forward to bid him farewell. "Your Majesty, thank you for gracing us with your presence. We are truly honoured by your visit," she said with genuine warmth and respect.
Riz smiled graciously, "It is not a big of deal, Eleanor. Just focus on the project I gave you."
"We will, Your Majesty," Eleanor assured.
With those words, he continued his journey towards his carriage. The researchers and staff watched in silence as their king made his way, and as he stepped out of the building, those who had gathered there also bowed in respect.
The bright sunlight greeted him, momentarily blinding him. He instinctively raised his hand to shield his eyes.
The warmth of the sun brought a soothing contrast to the cool interior of the building.
Taking a moment to savour the fresh air, Riz cast a thoughtful glance back at the research centre.
"Let's go to the mansion," Riz said to the driver. The driver nodded in acknowledgement, quickly opening the carriage door for his king.
The plush seats welcomed him as he stepped into the carriage, offering a comfortable respite. The scent of polished wood and fine leather filled the air, a reminder of the opulence he was accustomed to.
With a sigh of relief, he stretched his limbs, feeling the weariness slowly dissipate.
Once settled in, the driver gently closed the carriage door, and the rhythmic clattering of horse hooves filled the air.
The carriage set off on its journey, traversing the bustling streets of Ryntum.
Riz gazed out of the carriage window, observing the city's daily life in motion. Merchants and artisans plied their trade, children played in the streets, and the citizens went about their daily routines.
It was a testament to the prosperity and unity of the kingdom he tirelessly worked to maintain.
The journey led them through the heart of the city and towards Noble Hill, where the lush greenery gradually take place. The vibrant colours of nature embraced them, providing a tranquil backdrop to the busy city behind.
As the carriage climbed a gentle incline, the view expanded to reveal the sprawling city in the distance. The concrete building seemed to stretch endlessly into the distance.
The carriage continued its ascent up the hill. With each passing moment, the mansion on the hill grew nearer, its grandeur becoming increasingly apparent.
Finally, the carriage arrived at the grand entrance of the mansion. The iron gates swung open, welcoming their king back to his abode.
The carriage driver quickly dismounted to open the door, and Riz stepped out.
Riz's arrival was immediately noticed by the servants around the mansion.
However, the first to greet him was not a servant, but Nelson, the king of Naharog.
Surprise flashed in Riz's eyes as he noticed Nelson's familiar figure, and he couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at the unexpected sight.
He couldn't help but sigh inwardly, 'I expect to be greeted by beautiful maids, not an old man,' he thought to himself, though he quickly masked his surprise with a smile.
"Nelson! What are you doing here at the front door?" Riz asked, genuinely pleased to see his friend and fellow monarch.
Hearing Riz's question, Nelson's expression shifted to a hint of awkwardness, his usual confident demeanour momentarily faltering.
"I'm here to discuss about the debt," Nelson replied, his voice steady but tinged with a touch of unease.
Another wave of surprise washed over Riz as he hadn't expected their conversation to revolve around such a serious matter.
However, he quickly composed himself.
"Okay, but let's talk in the dining hall. I haven't eaten anything yet," Riz suggested, trying to ease the tension with a lighthearted remark.
Nelson nodded in agreement, "Okay, let's do that."
They moved to the dining hall, where Riz, as usual, took his seat at the head of the table. The servants bustled about, preparing the sumptuous feast that would soon be served.
While waiting for his food to be prepared, Riz initiated the conversation, eager to delve into the matter at hand. "So, have you talked with your advisors?" he inquired, genuinely interested in the decisions being made by the Naharog.
Nelson nodded a hint of resignation in his expression. "Yes, we agree to surrender the land rather than carrying a financial burden on us. However, we wish for the debt to be completely written off," he replied earnestly.
Riz chuckled softly at the bold request. "You know I can't agree with that, Nelson. The value of the land we asked for is not equal to the expenses we have spent on military efforts. At most, I can write off fifty per cent of the debt," he explained politely, trying to find a compromise that would be fair to both kingdoms.
"T-that still leaves a lot of debt remaining," Nelson stammered, trying to express his concern.
Riz pretended to ponder for a moment before offering a compromise with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "How about this... I will write off sixty per cent of the debt as a sign of our friendship," he proposed.
Nelson hesitated, weighing the offer carefully. Riz pressed on, "Come on! What's there to think of? It's a great deal, and I'm already taking a loss here to help you out. In a few years, I guarantee that you will be able to settle the debt."
After contemplating for a few more seconds, Nelson finally agreed, a mix of gratitude and relief in his expression. "You're right, Riz. Your generosity will not be forgotten, and I promise to find ways to repay this debt in the future."
"You're welcome," Riz replied with a satisfied smile.
As the food arrived, Riz eagerly indulged in his meal, displaying an evident gusto in savoring each bite.
The deal they had struck seemed to have elevated his enjoyment of the food, as if the taste itself had become more delightful.
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