Capítulo 14: Audience
For the next few days, Zonna and Etiene waited for a response from the Academy to confirm their results. In the meantime, they found two residences close to the school that were adjacent to each other. Despite their close friendship, they could not live together. As princesses, they had to remember to take care of their image. It would not be well received if someone of their stature shared a residence with someone else.
The residences themselves were not among the most luxurious in Raalo, but they contained all the necessary things to maintain the prestige of the princesses living in them. The estates had servants who were of a high standard. They were employed regardless of whether one currently rented the residences or not. They were responsible for keeping it in working order so that one could move into it at any time. Of course, the landlord had the right to replace them with his own servants for the duration of the rental, but this was a rare practice.
While she waited, Zonna set her plan for the period before school started. She had a month until the official start and didn't want to waste it. First, she had to figure out who she would be attending the academy with. She needed to know more than just the basics of what they look like and their names. She should know their characters and tastes. This was needed to know how to behave when talking to other geniuses. Good relationships formed during her studies can bear fruit in the future.
The next thing she should do is to meet with Balmaszeglodia's diplomats to learn more about the Raalo Republic and important personalities in the country. Only then will she be able to start taking action on joining the Alliance of Ardea.
Finally, she decided to observe the city to find investment opportunities. The money she has for her own use she intends to invest in some kind of business to make a steady profit. With proper planning, after five years Balmaszeglodia could have a solid position in Raalo. Such a situation would strengthen her negotiating position.
When Zonna finished planning her actions it made the evening of the last day before the confirmation of the result was announced. The princess was confident of her passing and was not worried about tomorrow. Other matters occupied her mind.
Zonna sat in an armchair and began to think about her country, her parents and her beloved Enzo. She wanted to see her mother, her father. She wanted to find herself in Enzo's arms. It had been a while since she had seen him. Had he happily arrived in Towbury? Had he not had any dangerous adventures like she had with Raksa? Did he meet anyone on his journey? Has nothing happened to him? Finally, did he remember her?
These and similar questions were swirling around her head. Of course, she had the company of Etiene on a daily basis, which probably saved her from the loneliness she would have experienced had they not become friends. In truth, she had Marzee, Sebastios and Ramze, whom she had known for many years and had a close relationship with. However, there was always a barrier between them because of her status as a princess. With Etiene that barrier was gone they could treat each other as equals. Nevertheless, she was beginning to miss her home and loved ones.
Sipping hot tea, she looked west toward Bazionia where her beloved should be....
Today was an important day for the Balmaszeglodia's diplomatic delegation. They were to meet with King Raizon of Bazionia today. They were waiting to enter the throne room when suddenly the door opened. It was a signal that they could enter. The first to move was Anze the leader of the delegation, followed by Enzo and two other diplomats carrying gifts for the king. Inside, they saw Aisen on the throne, in his prime, with a rather frail physique but tall stature. His blue hair overlapped his forehead slightly. On the face he was handsome, but it was his eyes that left the greatest impression on Maji. The green, piercing gaze left no doubt that one was dealing with the ruler of one of Altea's powers.
Next to him on a smaller throne sat a twenty-something man who bore a striking resemblance to the king. The difference was that he was better built. He was the heir to the throne of Raiza. By his side sat a young woman with a exhilarating beauty and shapely figure. She was quite short had curly light blue hair and green eyes. She watched with a smile as Enzo and his group walked inside. Of course, it was Princess Riza, king's daughter.
Standing before the king, the delegation bowed after which Anze introduced them all and offered gifts. When the official greeting was over, Raizon asked why they had come to his country.
"Your Highness we came to you to establish good relations between our countries," Anze knew that he could not directly convey his goal, which was to use Bazionia's power and prestige to protect Balmaszeglodia's borders. "I know that until now our relations have been limited to mutual non-interference in the affairs of our countries. King Ivi wishes to change that and hopes that Bazionia will be interested in establishing closer relations."
"Lord Anze, tell us what your country has to offer?" Raizon asked, calmly and with seriousness.
"Your Majesty, we are ready to offer assistance in carrying out agrarian reform along the lines of that in Poli County. Young Count Enzo, who is present here, is the ruler of these domains and the creator of the reform. We are ready to exchange his knowledge for friendly relations with your country," Anze presented his proposal.
The offer was set while waiting for an audience. Interest on the part of the princess in the reforms that Enzo has carried out at his place prompted the idea of Anze to offer knowledge of them to Bazionia. If that didn't work, the experienced diplomat had a few more ideas. However, they would imply the need for considerable effort on the part of Balmaszeglodia.
At Anze's words, King Raizon smiled and said: "I have been expecting this offer, and I will frankly admit I am interested in it." He started slowly then shifted his gaze to Enzo and continued. "I have my condition, Count Enzo will spend the next three years in my country and oversee the course of the reforms personally. In return, Bazionia will guarantee your safety during this period."
Anze and Enzo's heads began to quickly analyze the king's words. The proposal itself, from the point of view of raison d'etat, was as acceptable as possible. It offered three years of security and a chance to find a long-term solution to the problem with the three neighbors. In addition, all Balmaszeglodia had to do was rent one count for three years. This offer was very favorable for their country.
However, there were doubts about personal matters. Enzo was an unannounced partner of the future queen. Giving away someone of such value was unheard of on the continent. Moreover, if Enzo had stayed in Bazionia, it would have become impossible to announce his engagement to Zonna in two years. Not to mention that he would not be able to visit her in a year's time, as planned.
Enzo struggled with his inner dilemmas. He knew that this proposal was very favorable, but the next years of separation from Zonna hurt him a lot. He also knew how much it would hurt his beloved, who had not taken the previous parting well. He himself did not want to be away from her for so long! He was also afraid that with such a separation their affection would fade and their love for each other would not be the same as before.
Anze did not rush into Enzo's decision. For the young count, this was a serious decision that could change his life. In the throne room, everyone's gaze focused on Enzo. They were waiting to see what he would decide...
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