"First question," the Supreme Leader began. "What is the usual protocol when your country discovers a nation so technologically backward compared to yours? Let's use the Black Continent as an example."
Theodore narrowed his eyes slightly, caught off guard by the question. "What's the point of that question?" he responded, tilting his head, trying to gauge where this conversation was heading.
The Supreme Leader leaned back in his chair, his gloved fingers tapping the table softly. "Well, I've heard that you have several colonies in the Black Continent, independent before your arrival. So, I was wondering if you used... similar words, perhaps promises of prosperity, to lure them into signing treaties they didn't fully understand."
Theodore's lips twitched in irritation, though he kept his tone calm. "Our actions in the Black Continent were no different from any other nation's endeavors. We brought stability, technology, and resources that they could never have accessed otherwise. It was a mutually beneficial arrangement."
"Mutually beneficial, you say?" the Supreme Leader mused. "I wonder if they would describe it the same way."
Theodore's patience was thinning. "You don't think they would? Then you misunderstand the situation. These treaties were drafted for the betterment of all involved. We offered them advancement, protection. Without us, they would still be isolated."
"Isolated, yes. But free," the Supreme Leader countered smoothly, his eyes glinting behind the mask. "Is that not the greatest resource of all? To govern one's own future without the hand of an outsider dictating the terms?"
"What's so bad about it? Literally every superpower is doing the same. Don't tell me Valoria is above such things," Theodore said, his tone edged with impatience. He leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms as he awaited the Supreme Leader's response.
The Supreme Leader's eyes, still partially obscured by the mask, flickered with something close to amusement. "Ah, but you misunderstand, Prince Theodore," he said, his voice soft but cutting. "Valoria doesn't need to engage in such practices. We do not need to lure anyone into agreements they don't fully comprehend. We make sure they know exactly what they're getting into."
Theodore raised an eyebrow. "So you're claiming moral superiority over the rest of us? How convenient."
The Supreme Leader let out a small chuckle. "Not moral superiority, no. Just clarity. When we enter into agreements, it's because both sides understand what they stand to gain—and what they might lose. There is no veil of false promises or paternalistic 'guidance' as you call it. We make no illusions about what we seek."
Theodore uncrossed his arms, leaning forward slightly. "And what is it that you seek, Supreme Leader? Power? Territory? Influence? You can dress it up however you like, but in the end, it's the same game we all play."
The Supreme Leader tapped his fingers lightly on the table. "I see. You offer influence and trade, in exchange for my nation's allegiance to your agenda. You wish to use Valoria to further Triesenberg's reach into other territories, using my support as a tool of dominance." His tone was neutral, but the words cut sharply.
Theodore frowned. "Support, yes. But this isn't about dominance. It's about stability. Together, we could prevent unnecessary conflicts and promote a world order where both our nations thrive."
"World order," the Supreme Leader repeated, his voice soft but laced with meaning. "Is that not a more elegant form of conquest? Rather than brute force, you shape the world in your image through diplomacy and alliances. But make no mistake, Prince Theodore—Valoria does not bend to others' visions. We carve our own path."
Theodore shifted in his seat, growing frustrated. "If that's true, then what do you want from this partnership? You've spoken much about independence and control over your destiny, but you're here, speaking to me. Clearly, you see the value in what I'm offering."
The Supreme Leader was silent for a moment, before leaning forward. "What I want, Prince Theodore, is something you may not be prepared to offer."
Theodore's eyes narrowed. "And what would that be?"
"True equality," the Supreme Leader said, his voice unyielding. "If we are to form this partnership, it will not be under the assumption that Triesenberg is the dominant force. Valoria will not play second to anyone. Our terms will be our own, and we will not be puppets in someone else's game."
Theodore bit his lip, considering his next move carefully. "I can't promise equality in the way you see it. But what I can promise is respect. Triesenberg will not treat Valoria as a subordinate, but as an equal partner in our endeavors. However, you must also recognize that we are an established power, and with that comes certain expectations."
The Supreme Leader's gloved hand rested on the table as he stood, his eyes locked onto Theodore's. "Expectations or not, Valoria does not serve. We will agree to this partnership on the condition that our autonomy is never in question. Any attempt to influence our decisions will be met with immediate withdrawal."
Theodore nodded slowly, understanding the gravity of the Supreme Leader's words. "Agreed. Triesenberg will not interfere with Valoria's internal matters. But we expect the same in return—when the time comes for us to act, we will do so as equals, supporting one another."
A silence hung between them, heavy with the weight of their newfound understanding. The Supreme Leader extended his hand once more, this time more purposeful. "Then let us seal this partnership, Prince Theodore, and shape the world as we see fit."
Theodore took the offered hand, shaking it firmly. "To our future," he said, his voice carrying a tone of both resolve and uncertainty.
As their hands parted, Theodore realized that while they had reached an agreement, this was only the beginning. And Theodore doesn't know what he is getting himself into.