Chapter 2002 Diplomacy

Chapter 2002 Diplomacy

Magus Rosia, the oldest and the first wife, held history as the vice-commander of the late Lord Izta's army and played a crucial role in establishing Terra City. Upon Emery's request for her to return and focus on the city, Rosia transitioned from her role in the army to a key position where, in addition to her cultivation training, she dedicated herself to nurturing relations within the Golden City and sector.

Leveraging her past comrades and connections, Magus Rosia skillfully navigated the intricate web of communication with dozens of Magus Alliance officials and faction lords. Her calm demeanor and strategic approach allowed her to gather valuable insights into the political dynamics within the Golden City Council—the body vested with the authority to decide on faction applications for independence.

In her reports to Emery, Magus Rosia shed light on the various factions and alliances within the Golden City Council, identifying the 16 influential figures, holding 16 seats who held sway over decisions related to independence claims.

The once-dominant Karat faction, which used to hold six seats, now only retained four, consisting mainly of their loyal subsidiary factions. This shift in influence was notable, and it positioned the Karat as a vital ally, ensuring four confirmed votes in favor of Terra's cause.

On the other side, the Qin and Corvin factions each confirmed their hold on two seats, contributing to the intricacies of the political balance within the council. The remaining eight seats were considered neutral, presenting a critical opportunity for Terra City to secure additional support for its independence claim.The source of this content nov(el)bi((n))

The key to success lay in obtaining the backing of at least nine out of the 16 seats, and with Karat's loyalty providing four votes, Terra needed to sway at least five more factions to garner the necessary support. Magus Rosia astutely explained that the neutrals were motivated by either reasons or greed, creating an opportunity for Terra City to influence their decisions.

"With our compliance contributing over a billion spirit stones these past 4 years through tax and our increasing strength, I have confidence in swaying at least four of these neutral factions to support us," Magus Rosia asserted, revealing a strategic plan to align support for Terra City's cause.

Magus Rosia highlighted the Hauten faction, holding two seats, as a crucial player in the Golden City Council. Their stance appeared to be ambivalent, with one foot positioned against Terra City's cause, or at least, leaning toward neutrality. Magus Rosia stressed that winning the favor of the Hauten would be pivotal for success. The mention of Hauten brought to Emery's mind Eugene Houten, the apothecarist who had taken their master along with him.

After a brief contemplation, Emery made a decisive choice. With unwavering determination, he addressed the assembly, revealing the direction in which the faction would now tread.

"It's time for us to be more aggressive."

Emery's announcement resonated throughout the meeting, capturing the attention of everyone present. The revelation that he intended to earn more merits through battle further heightened the intrigue, as the prospect of increased combat activities stirred anticipation and speculation.

Emery had been closely monitoring reports from the frontline, noting the escalating chaos, particularly since the separation of the Oculus faction and their attempts at the resurgence of the scourge. The fallout included a decrease in the number of magus enforcers and military presence in the sector and a corresponding rise in pirate activity.

Recognizing the sector much need for enhanced security, Emery devised a plan to support the alliance by actively targeting multiple bandits and pirates. Simultaneously, he aimed to nurture the new units with valuable combat experience. The dual purpose of this approach was not only to strengthen security but also to generate more revenue, merits, and, crucially, gain popularity through a show of strength.

All present were surprised to hear his ultimate objective within the next 8 months was to secure their own seat on the council and establish a formidable standing in the sector.

The ambitious plan stirred exhilaration and enthusiasm among the leaders, each recognizing the potential impact of such strategic endeavors.

As the room buzzed with anticipation, Klea, ever insightful, raised a crucial question that hung in the air: "So, who will be leading this task?"