"How long until the diplomats from the Kingdom of Zambesi arrive?" Alexander leaned his head near Julieanne's ears.
Julieanne glanced at her wristwatch before responding softly, "They should be here within the next fifteen minutes, Your Excellency. The envoy has been making steady progress, and I've received word that they are en route from the city gates."
Alexander nodded, his gaze sweeping over the reception hall once more, ensuring that everything was in place. Every detail had been meticulously planned, from the arrangement of the seating to the placement of the Valorian and Zambesian flags. The significance of this meeting was not lost on him—this was a moment that would define Valoria's standing on the global stage.
"Fifteen minutes huh? Well, where do I sit?"
Julieanne gestured toward the head of the long, ornately decorated table that dominated the center of the reception hall.
"Your seat is at the head of the table, Your Excellency," she replied.
Alexander nodded approvingly, his eyes lingering on the chair that awaited him. The chair was grand, with high-backed velvet upholstery and intricate carvings that matched the grandeur of the Volkshalle.
As the moments passed, Alexander walked towards his designated seat, his footsteps echoing softly in the grand hall. He moved with deliberate grace, knowing that every eye in the room was on him. When he reached the chair, he paused, placing a hand on the backrest and surveying the room once more.
"I want everything to go smoothly," Alexander said.
"We cannot afford any missteps. This is not just a meeting—it's a demonstration of our capability and resolve."
Julieanne nodded, standing close by, ready to assist at a moment's notice. "Everything is in place, Your Excellency. The staff is well-prepared, and all contingencies have been considered. We are ready."
Fifteen minutes later, the grand doors to the reception hall began to open, revealing the Zambesian diplomats. They entered the hall with a composed and measured pace, their expressions calm but filled with curiosity as they took in the opulence of the Volkshalle.
"I trust that any misunderstandings have been fully addressed. It is imperative that we move forward without any lingering issues that could impede our progress."
Chief Mosi nodded, his expression remaining composed. "Indeed, Your Excellency. The initial difficulties were a result of cultural differences and misunderstandings, but they have been resolved. We are ready to engage in meaningful dialogue and to explore the opportunities that lie ahead for both our nations."
"Good," Alexander replied, his gaze steady as he looked across the table. "In diplomacy, transparency and mutual respect are key. I am confident that we can work together to build a partnership that benefits both Valoria and Zambesi. Now, let's get started. First, your country, what can it offer to Valoria? For us, we can provide technology to modernize your nation."
"Your Excellency, the Kingdom of Zambesi is blessed with abundant natural resources. We have vast reserves of gold and a wide array of minerals. We can offer you mining rights to some of our richest deposits," Chief Mosi replied.
He continued, "Moreover, we have recently discovered significant oil fields in the northern regions of our country. This discovery presents a tremendous opportunity for both of our nations. With Valoria's technological expertise, we believe we can develop these resources efficiently and to the mutual benefit of our peoples."
Alexander leaned back in his chair, carefully considering Chief Mosi's words. The prospect of securing access to gold, minerals, and especially oil was exactly the kind of thing that he wanted for his nation. After all, he can't rely on the system all the time for raw materials. They needed a stable source from the planet itself if they wanted to be self-sufficient.
"Your offer is indeed valuable, Chief Mosi," Alexander replied thoughtfully. "Valoria's technology and infrastructure development capabilities could certainly assist in unlocking the full potential of your nation's resources. In return, we would expect favorable terms on trade agreements and long-term access to these resources."
Chief Mosi nodded. "That is exactly what we had in mind, Your Excellency. We are prepared to negotiate terms that will ensure a prosperous future for both our nations. The resources of Zambesi are vast, and with the right partnership, we can achieve great things."
The conversation continued, with both sides delving into the specifics of potential agreements, from the percentage of resource extraction to infrastructure projects and the involvement of Valorian companies in Zambesi's development.
"We seem to be in agreement on many points," Alexander finally said, a slight smile forming on his lips. "I believe we are on the path to a fruitful partnership, one that will elevate both Valoria and Zambesi to new heights."
Chief Mosi returned the smile, a sense of accomplishment evident in his expression. "Indeed, Your Excellency. This is the beginning of a new era for both our nations."
"The last thing we are going to do is to wait for the official papers to be finalized and signed. Once everything is in order, we can begin signing the agreements and move forward with our plans," Alexander concluded.