Chapter 108: Alliance

One week had passed since the funeral in the Austin Empire.

After remaining there for a time to conduct diplomacy, the representatives of each country returned home.

On the day I returned to Lunoa Kingdom, Wa requested a meeting. The sooner the better, so I arranged it that same day.

“Thank you for waiting.”

That evening, after completing the minimum work that had to be done, I entered the conference room where Wa’s diplomats waited.

“Not at all. We’re grateful simply to have another opportunity to speak with you.”

“Those are our words. It’s an honor to welcome your country to Lunoa Kingdom.”

“Thank you. Then allow me to come directly to the point. Regarding the alliance, we respectfully ask to proceed.”

“Yes, likewise.”

I agreed with the proposal the moment I sat down.

“…Likewise?”

I had agreed… but what had I just agreed to?

“Is something wrong?”

“…”

I deserved praise for suppressing my agitation and remaining silent.

“…No. I’m pleased that you have accepted the alliance.”

Had they just accepted it immediately? The alliance, at the very start, without bargaining, discussion, or conditions?

I had prepared for a long negotiation and was stunned that the matter had been settled in an instant. It was a miracle that I concealed it.

“We took Brigadier General Willard’s alliance proposal home and examined it. We would like to add just one provision.”

“…What would that be?”

“We ask Lunoa Kingdom to send someone who will serve as our point of contact, and to permit the establishment of an embassy—not merely a temporary legation.”

“…I see.”

Was that all? It amounted to practically nothing.

As allies, we would naturally establish an embassy and send personnel. Could an alliance truly be formed on that condition alone?

“If possible, we would like at least one person who speaks the language of Wa. Would that be possible?”

“Yes, that presents no problem. I intend to go myself.”

“Oh! Are you certain?”

“Of course.”

Naturally, I was the only person who spoke Japanese.

The condition was somewhat difficult. Leaving the front now carried some risk.

Even so, it could be considered the price of our long neglect of Wa. If this was their only real condition, it was entirely acceptable.

Frankly, Lunoa Kingdom wasn’t in a favorable position.

Wa was the party extending aid and could afford to be demanding.

I had proposed a completely equal alliance—if anything, one slightly favorable to Lunoa. I had never expected the proposal to pass unchanged.

“My! It appears we can build an excellent relationship!”

I was completely taken aback. I had never imagined that what I wanted most would fall into my hands so easily. In contrast, the diplomat from Wa looked satisfied.

…Was this simply a difference in perspective? Wa’s lack of diplomatic skill was easy to see.

Well, never mind. Things were going well, so I would finish the matter before that changed.

“Then let us draw up the documents immediately.”

“Yes. Please do.”

We would conclude it today, before they changed their minds.