Book 9: Chapter 3

Book 9: Chapter 3

Uhh Wein and company were back at the temporary residence the Ulbeth Alliance had set up for them. The prince was groaning with unease. This mask protects your household?

The object in Weins hands was a common sort of handicraft that could be found on sale throughout the region, and hed purchased several on a whim.

It does look more like something youd wear to scare off enemies, Ninym replied as she took it from him.

Or freak out little kids.

I think that kind of reaction is the point. Its proof of its effectiveness, you could say. Its not happening right now, but I heard theres a festival where everyone parades around town in masks like these.

Wein imagined a sea of terrifying crafted faces marching through the dark night and shivered. The celebration sounded like a nightmare for children and uninformed adults alike.

I also recall that theres a masked gathering where people can vent their various frustrations.

Makes sense to me. The Ulbeth government keeps tabs on everyone. I guess a masquerade party helps them cope.

Its an established custom, so authorities usually look the other way, Ninym added. She then donned the mask. I serve a certain noble, but hes an awful troublemaker Just kidding.

Wein laughed. Who could you be referring to? He sounds like a handful.

Care to try it on, Wein? Ninym giggled.

However, the prince swept his hair back theatrically. Dont need it. Concealing these good looks would be a disservice to the continent!

Ninym quietly held the mask over her face again. Well then, I have work to do.

Wait! Dont ignore me, Miss Ninym! It hurts my feelings!

Ninym? I, the Masked Flahmette, am a simple passerby.

My subordinate is in a super bad mood! What should I do, O adorable Masked Flahmette?!

Shell feel much better if you devote yourself to your job and dont spout nonsense. Ninym, aka the Masked Flahmette, set documents in front of the crestfallen Wein. First, lets review the situation. We want to make a trade deal with Ulbeth, right? Commerce between Natra and Patura took a significant hit, so well need a substitute.

Right. We trekked here from the far north to help Agata with his scheme in exchange for a business deal, Wein responded, his previous despair now gone. But after seeing things for myself, its obvious that the situation is quite different from what we assumed. I know each city possesses equal authority, but Agata is a Holy Elite and the public face of the whole nation. I figured hed at least be a cut above the rest.

From what weve heard, thats not the case at all, Ninym agreed before cocking her head to one side. Do foreign entities like Levetia lack influence here because the Ulbeth Alliance is focused on its own strength?

Lets worry about the reason later. Right now, our biggest problem is Agatas limited power. It could sink our trade deal.

Agata wanted to unite the four city-states under his own banner, and a trade deal with Natra was plausible if he succeeded. However, Wein and Agatas secret pact would collapse if this plan failed. It all hinged on whether the older man actually brought Ulbeth under his control.

Man, I was really hoping this would go better.

Wein had, of course, weighed the risks before the trip. Hed supposed that his odds against Agata were pretty good. Even if he did lose by some odd chance, the prince thought hed at least bring home a consolation prize.

Once Wein had arrived in Muldu, however, he realized that Agatas predicament was worse than hed imagined. He could already sense this was a colossal waste of time.

And thats why youre betraying him, right?

You got it.

Aiding Agata in bringing the Alliance together wasnt Weins only option. So long as he achieved his own goal, Ulbeths unification (or lack thereof) made no difference to Natras future. Wein already saw an obvious second route.

Well try Roynock to the west, he began. It dominates Ulbeths sea trade, and we can ditch Agata if I strike a deal with its representative.

Ninym nodded. Yes, but I have several concerns. First, youll immediately make an enemy of Agata.

True, but I doubt hell be much of a threat. After all, he invited a foreign power like me to help with Ulbeths domestic issues. If I cut ties with him, a political war against the west and the south will swiftly end his career.

Agata was old, so making a comeback wouldnt be easy. And without authority, no amount of hatred could threaten Wein.

All right, lets move on. How do you plan to negotiate with Roynocks representative? The Ulbeth Alliance has rejected your business proposal once before.

After Natra had gained access to Soljests port, Wein immediately solicited every nation along the Wests coastline with a trade deal. Unfortunately, his notorious reputation preceded him, leaving other countries wary. Everyone ignored him, including the Ulbeth Alliance, whose naval liaison was, of course, Roynock.

We wont know until we try, but I think we stand a chance. A lot has changed in the West since then.

Okay, heres my third and final concern. I know youre going to meet the representative in Roynock, but Agatas involvement worries me.

Yeah, theres that, Wein groaned. Agata was sharpening the ax for his own demise. It was unnerving, to say the least. Im sure he knows I might betray him. Shouldnt that make him nervous about leaving me alone with the West and the South Representatives?

Yet hes prepared that exact scenario. Agata might believe you cant betray him, and perhaps his confidence is warranted. We should be careful, said Ninym.

Right. And theres something else that bothers me.

Something else? Not sure what other points she missed, Ninym gave Wein a puzzled look.

Im not surehow serious Agata is about unification.

Ninyms visible confusion grew deeper. From what we know, Agatas political position is slowly declining. Asking a foreign power for aid seems genuine to me.

Agata had dragged Wein into the fray because Roynock and Facrita overshadowed Muldu. Such was the present situation.

Still, Agatas heart doesnt seem in it.

A seat of authority was a wondrous thing. Almost every leader, even the most composed, would fight to the death to guard their power.

Wein didnt sense this from Agata, however. The Holy Elite asserted that his goal was unification, but it felt like the man was running in a different lane.

What other objective could he have?

No clue, Wein replied blankly.

I suppose it is a bit early to say.

Theyd already learned a lot in this city, but there were still plenty of unknowns. Blindly guessing Agatas motive wouldnt accomplish much. They needed information.

Well, no use worrying. Lets set that aside for now and get ready for the banquet.

Right. Ill also gather more details about the Alliance. Ninym paused to let out a sigh. I wish I could come with you, but as your aide, I know that associating with me would damage your reputation. Even if my hair is dyed, a Flahm like me should remain in the background.

Come to think of it, didnt you mention that the aide from earlier realized youre a Flahm? What was his name Kamil, right?

Yes, but fortunately, he doesnt seem prejudiced.

Ninym shrugged but found no reason to celebrate. If Kamil had said something cruel, there would have been bloodshed once Wein found out. To her immense relief, their conversation had been unremarkable.

Perhaps hes a rare exception. Then again, Levetias influence is shaky here, so maybe people in the Ulbeth Alliance are more accepting of the Flahm?

Even so, lets not test that theory.

Taking such risks despite full knowledge of Weins imperial wrath was suicidal. Ninym didnt want Ulbeth reduced to ash.

Besides, Flahm prejudice or not, the Alliance clearly despises outsiders.

She could still feel those penetrating eyes as the carriage traveled through the city. The heavy, insular atmosphere was hardly inviting.

Well, lets meet up with the West Representative first and try to work out a deal. Thatll decide whether or not we betray Agata.

Let me say this firstbe very careful. Dont cause unnecessary trouble.

Wein grinned. Better hope peace loves me.

Ninym let out a defeated sigh. Ill prepare an escape route.

Good morning, Prince Wein.

On the day of the banquet, Agatas aide, Kamil, met the foreign delegation outside of their provided accommodation.

Master Agata has instructed me to escort you to the venue.

Thanks. I dont really know my way around town yet.

Kamil bowed courteously. We can depart at your earliest convenience. Is that all right?

Sure, sounds good. Lets get going. Wein nodded before turning to Ninym behind him. Well, Im off. Hold down the fort while Im gone.

Yes. Please take care, Your Highness.

Ninym watched Wein and Kamils carriage depart.

By the way, whats the occasion?

The children of two influential people, one from Roynock and the other from Facrita, are getting married. The West Representative is hosting the affair since the groom-to-be is his close relative.

I see. How wonderful, Wein replied before asking a follow-up question. Shouldnt the party be in Roynock, then?

Although I believe the engagement is a political bargain between the west and the south, the location was likely chosen because the West Representatives relative lives in Muldu.

Traveling all the way here for a family engagement? Thats rough.

The four cities have upheld a policy of appeasement since the Alliances founding, so most people have relatives throughout Ulbeth. Traveling between cities to attend a wedding is quite common.

Oh yeah? You make it sound as though Ulbeth has a firm sense of solidarity.

If only it were that simple. Kamil let out a heavy sigh. Weve laid a solid foundation and can handle foreign nations, thanks to the appeasement policy, but the rivalry between the cities is rising drastically. Each of the four believes itself the true leader of the union. Politicians have even tried to gain the upper hand by inciting their own citizens. Unfortunately, this has also opened old wounds.

Mutual encouragement through healthy rivalry could nurture cultures, ideas, and techniques. However, the relationship quickly soured when anger and resentment were thrown into the mix.

I know those types. Higher-ups that engage in that kind of manipulation are especially annoying.

I must agree, Prince.

Wein and Kamil smiled wryly at each other.

Those who managed their own domains regularly took to thinking half the city and even the entire nation belonged to them. They gleefully snatched up all the credit when their settlement prospered yet panicked more than anyone once things turned bleak. It wasnt too dire an issue in moderation, but this could rapidly go belly-up if the situation turned extreme.

The marriage of a relative is paramount to such people. After all, someone you dislike may suddenly become close family.

It must be tough to balance feelings and profit.

Indeed. The familial relationships in Ulbeth are a complex labyrinth. Even todays couple argued bitterly and nearly broken off their engagement, but the West and the South Representatives managed to keep them together.

The carriage arrived at the mansion while Wein and Kamil conversed. Other guests had already gathered, and there seemed to be a large crowd inside.

You know, Prince Wein, disjointed as they are, the Ulbeth people transform when a certain something is in their midst. Do you know what that is?

A foreigner, right?

Kamil only smiled, and the two entered the building. The mood changed instantly.

My, what an auspicious day.

Indeed. The weather is crisp and clear.

The reception hall was vast enough to accommodate a large crowd, and guests filled every corner, chatting all the while. The light tone matched the joyous occasion, but their comments were less than complimentary.

Ha-ha-ha, this fresh air is more than the weather.

Oh? Why, youre right. Those dirty easterners arent here, are they?

No, look over there. Theyre skulking in the corner.

Heh. How impressive for a group that boasts only arrogance.

I do wish theyd realize their star has fallen.

Why, Im certain theyll understand once we demonstrate Roynock and Facritas unbreakable bond.

The gossipers sneered openly as their targets, those guests from Muldu, silently endured the abuse.

Harsh

Despite the engagement party being held in the eastern city, the locals were being dragged through the mud. It underlined just how much Roynock and Facrita despised them.

Still, it looks like Muldu might have a chance to turn things around.

A quick glance revealed that most of the attendees were from Roynock or Facrita. The Muldu guests were a small minority. Whats more, there werent any guests from Altie. Invitees from the west and the south patted themselves on the back and acted as if their friendship were forever, but that glint in their eyes revealed both factions considered the other to be a nuisance. It was obvious that, given half a chance, they would be at each others throats.

Theyll settle down soon enough, though.

After all, Weina foreignerwas now in their midst.

Hey, whos that?

Thats one of Agatas men with him.

Wait, could it be the visitor from Natra?

You mean Natras crown prince?!

The stares and whispers escalated as Wein moved into the center of the room. The distrust and suspicion were almost palpable. It was hardly a warm welcome.

What did the prince come to Ulbeth for?

What is it?

Well keep helping Agata, but half-ass it. Once hes down for the count, we can join either the western or the southern city when they start fighting each other.

For Wein, Agatas victory was convenient but hardly a requirement. The Roynock-Facrita partnership would end with the representative of Muldus defeat, and Natras foreign military would make a tempting ally when Roynock and Facrita went to war.

Still, this plan has its flaws, Wein admitted.

Itll take time.

Yep. The prince groaned. We can only make a deal once Agata is out of the way and those two turn on each other. If were not careful, well be stuck here til spring.

We shouldnt be gone from Natra for too long. Theres plenty to be done back home.

So Im not allowed to procrastinate if I stay in Ulbeth?

This isnt a vacation.

Cant argue with that, Wein replied. Then he muttered, Still, Sirgis is easier to maneuver when Im away.

Did you say something?

Nope. Hey, who else is hungry?

Ill prepare something after our discussion, Ninym answered before returning to the conversation at hand. Regardless of time limits, Im not sure youll be able to negotiate. From what youve told me, they dont sound like your biggest fans. I also felt this nations deep-rooted bigotry while exploring the city.

Oh, I wouldnt worry about that.

Why?

Wein smirked. You might say its the fate of every young politician.

Welcome back, Lady Lejoutte.

The representative of Facritas subordinates politely greeted her as she returned to her temporary residence in Muldu.

How was the celebration?

It went well. Agata sent Natras crown prince to meddle in the affairs, but it was a meaningless effort. Muldu will fall.

You are as brilliant as ever, Lady Lejoutte.

Facrita is in excellent hands.

Isnt Natra some remote northern country? What could their prince ever accomplish?

I couldnt agree more. Besides, Sir Agata is just a senile old man.

At this rate, that newcomer Oleom will fall as well. The southern city will soon rule the Alliance!

Lejoutte threw a sidelong glance at her enthusiastic followers and quietly sighed. Id like a moment to think. Ill be in my room, so do not disturb me.

Yes, understood.

They bade her farewell, and Lejoutte returned to her quarters.

Then

SHOOOOOOOOOOOT!

She crouched down with her head in her hands.

WHY?! Why did Natras prince have to show up now?!

Lejoutte cast off her noble air and pummeled the bed next to her.

If hed come just a little sooner or later, I could have convinced everyone our partnership is a good idea!

Brave young Lejoutte was the South Representative. Her pedigree was, of course, impeccable, and she demonstrated promising talent as well. In her pre-representative career, she had focused on improving inefficient agricultural techniques by visiting local farmlands, actively conversing with staff, and rewarding ingenuity. Lejoutte integrated foreign expertise as well. To the small-minded Ulbeth people, her methods were highly irregular.

Naturally, there were critics, but the results silenced them. The produce output in her domain soared, and others tried to imitate her success. Keeping no secrets, Lejoutte openly shared her agricultural techniques. Altie prospered even further, and Lejoutte was appointed representative.

In this new position, she immediately allied with the naval city of Roynock to the west and used this new market outlet to great success.

Ive worked so hard. My position should be solidbut I suppose thats too much to ask.

Lejoutte sighed in exasperation. Her youth made people underestimate her, but there was also the matter of her agricultural innovations. Those who benefited were ecstatic, yet it was not a unanimous victory. Some were even left at a disadvantage, and they saw Lejoutte as a bitter enemy. This was where Ulbeths complex family tree came into play. The disgruntled tried to tarnish her by complaining among their own circles.

Alties relationship with Roynock was limited as well. The Ulbeth Alliance was formed of four cities that allegedly held equal power, but in truth, each citizen considered their city above the rest. While Altie flourished, thanks to its cooperation with Roynock, everyone irritably thought, They should be bowing to us. Now we look like equals or something.

Youre all so stupid, stupid, stupid!

Now Lejoutte had to make Ulbeth and the rest of the continent believe she had befriended Roynock out of necessity and would eventually abandon them. Anything else would cost the woman her representative position.

Why is nothing working out?!

Lejoutte could have made a deal with Natra had she not already sided with Roynock or cut ties already. That opportunity was long gone, however. Altie was more confident than ever before. Lejoutte had been forced to snub Wein at the party lest she appear weak and timid.

Hahhh Oh, Oleom What should I do? Lejoutte whispered into the air.

There are jokes about every nation.

Why is there no face powder in Natra? Because its piled up outside!

Why are there no plates in Soljest? Because they were eaten!

And

Why are there no world maps in the Ulbeth Alliance? Because the people insist theyre at the center!

At the end of the day, were bumpkins in denial.

In his private quarters, West Representative Oleom was mumbling to himself.

The Ulbeth Alliance was a union among four city-states that had once battled for hegemony of their region. It wasnt a large area in any respect. Ulbeth mocked Natra as the northern backwoods, but other countries regarded Ulbeth as the western boonies. Whats more, Natra was a rising world superpower. Oleom doubted Ulbeth could keep up.

Location aside, it was a mistake to leave Muldu in charge of foreign affairs.

The four remote cities created two policies when theyd founded the Alliance.

First, each city would develop its specialized industry and compensate for the others shortcomings. This would ensure an efficient government.

Second, all the settlements were to keep their competitive spirit alive while maintaining harmony and encouraging one another.

I dont think those policies were a mistake, but

So much time had passed that everyone had lost sight of the original aim of the two tenets.

People failed to hone their strengths and forgot anything that wasnt their one job. They were glad to leave unpleasant tasks to their neighbors, but the mutual hostility within the Ulbeth Alliance never faded.

Although foolish, many citizens thought the following despite their own citys incompetence: Other cities can handle the annoying stuff. Ours should rule the Alliance anyway.

If only we could have resolved things and maintained the union. Yet Facrita and Roynock are making rapid progress, and Muldu is failing

The southern and the western cities were excited to become the face of Ulbeth. However, people failed to realize that they would be taking over Muldus diplomatic duties. The uneducated and xenophobic Ulbethians would have to carry the torch.

Pointing this out wouldnt do much good either. Since citizens respected only their own city, most would laugh off the danger and say, The others can handle it, right?

People understand the risk of allowing an amateur to do a masters work when its their own field yet optimistically believe everything will work out somehow when those roles are reversed. Maybe thats human nature.

Oleoms mouth twisted into a sardonic expression.

He had a duty to lead Roynock as West Representative. It was a frustrating job, though, and Weins appearance at the banquet was a perfect example. Befriending the prince was obviously the best option, but Oleoms citizens would never approve. After all, they believed themselves superior and didnt understand Natras importance.

Lejouttewhat should I do?

The mans anguished whispers went unheard.

I see. So civic duty shaped their reactions rather than personal feelings. Ninym nodded after hearing Weins explanation. I also heard that both representatives were only appointed a few years ago. Its no surprise things are troubled when they dont have a strong grip on their factions yet.

Both Oleom and Lejoutte were regularly praised for their competence, yet neither had unanimous support.

This seamless transition of power to a talented new generation would have made the Empires people grit their teeth and say, How nice for you.

Wow, those two really do have it rough. I can relate, Wein remarked. As another bright, young leader of tomorrow, he could easily sympathize.

So will you show mercy and go easy on them?

What? Nah.

And there you have it.

Im a man who can separate his work and personal life, after all.

I suppose I cant complain about that. Ninym wasnt totally satisfied with the princes answer but moved on anyway. At any rate, I understand now that there is still opportunity for negotiation. What are your plans, though? Should we prepare for a long battle?

Hmm

Wein pondered for a while. It was a rare sight since he usually went with his gut or devised a quick solution despite potential concerns. Were the scales tipped so evenly, showing no favor for one option over the other?

Okay. Well meet Agata tomorrow, hear him out, and go from there, Wein decided after much deliberation. If he just wants to break up Facrita and Roynocks honeymoon, well cut ties right there and join the southern city or the western one.

Sounds reasonable, Ninym replied, nodding. But we should also consider retreat if it looks like this will take too long.

No way. Im not going home empty-handed.

Sometimes its important to cut your losses.

Well cross that bridge when we come to it. Yup, just leave everything to me.

Wein was brimming with confidence, but Ninym had to wonder if theyd truly be all right.

The next day, Wein met Agata at the Holy Elites mansion.

So what did you think of Oleom and Lejoutte? Agata inquired shamelessly.

Ninym kept her scowl hidden from her place behind Wein. Last time, shed had to wait in a separate room, but Agata and his aide Kamil didnt mind that Ninym was a Flahm and allowed her to join Wein during this meeting. Even so, she had no authority to speak and thus could only observe.

They were quite delightful. Given time to mature, Ulbeth will be in excellent hands, Wein replied cheerfully. His comments were dripping with sarcasm, but Agata wouldnt have become East Representative without a thick skin.

Exactly. Thats why I must stop them.

Got any ideas?

This. Agata had Kamil bring over a large stack of papers. I have gathered various records about Ulbeths citizens over my long career as East Representative. No other city has such a vast collection. I will use this to divide Roynock and Facrita. I want your help in convincing others to join our cause, Prince Wein.

Ah, this is never going to work, Ninym thought immediately.

The volume of information was impressive, but it was your run-of-the-mill scheme from every angle. Based on what Wein had told Ninym the night before, he intended to end things with Agata now and join Roynock or Facrita. She couldnt see the princes expression from behind him, but she imagined he looked bored to tears.

However, Ninym couldnt have been more wrong.

Whats going on?

Wein stared Agata dead in the eye. He had a vague sense of the mans intentions.

Agata wants to drag this out. And hes totally fine with me joining the south or the west to make it happen!

There was no proof, but Wein knew. The stone-faced Agatas crumb trail of information led him to this conclusion. It was undeniable. This gave rise to another concern, however.

The unification is a bluff, and the homewrecker plan is, too. In fact, he doesnt even want to be representative! Sending me to that party was supposed to trick me into believing I had leeway to team up with Roynock or Facrita. Agata is making every excuse to keep me here! But why?

Wein couldnt read him. Agatas deepest core was shrouded. Still, even if he didnt know what the Holy Elite was thinking, there was something the prince did understand.

This was a trapan extremely convoluted one.

Knowing this, Wein

Interesting. Okay, lets dance, Agata!

felt an excited flame burn in his chest.

What an impressive collection. Id expect no less from Muldus veteran representative. Clearly, you have nothing to worry about with these in hand. Wein began to test the waters. Still, Sir Agata, I wonder if youre being a bit light-handed.

Oh? Agatas eyes flashed with evident interest. Are you suggesting I use greater force? The Ulbeth Alliance usually avoids such measures, but

Not at all. Anyone who has records like these but chooses violence should return to the pack of monkeys they clearly belong to. I have a more constructive way to split the opposition.

Weins thoughts whirled excitedly.

I see your game, Agata. You want me to stick around here. In that case, Ill do the complete opposite! Im gonna wrap things up pronto and hightail it out of Ulbeth!

A dazzling smile spread across the prince of Natras face.

In other wordsits time for a marriage campaign.