Chapitre 20: Talks with the envoy (2)

"A diplomat who says "yes" means "maybe", a diplomat who says "maybe" means "no", and a diplomat who says "no" is no diplomat."

― Talleyrand

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"Your Highness, it is widely known that almost every member of your dynasty has always nurtured a great love for falcon hunting, and I am sure you will be one of them.As such, Genoa hopes to begin our relationship on a positive note, and we hope that these gifts will mark the beginning of a friendship between our two glorious countries."

Conradin listened to the envoy's words curiously. He recognized the gesture's symbolic value and appreciated the diplomacy and respect given. He was also intrigued by the prospect of a possible alliance between their two countries, and he was eager to investigate it. Of course, he was aware that politics has to be involved and that any union would have to be mutually beneficial.

However, the prospect of cooperation and friendly relations piqued his interest. He was excited to learn more and see where this conversation would lead him.

Genoa, by offering him a falcon and taking into account his family's falconry legacy, tacitly showed its endorsement, or at least acknowledgment, that Conradin was the lawful ruler of Sicily since his family tradition was named.

Conradin managed to calm down after the initial shock and happiness and tried to learn more about Genoa's intentions.

"So, estimated envoy, tell me how Genoa intends to allow our two countries to build such a positive relationship?" Conradin inquired.

''Of course, your highness, by military assistance, what other than this would be a reliable display of friendship after all?'' The envoy responded with a broad, pearly smile.

He admired the calm approach to the issue of the envoy, as well as the prospect of having a powerful and affluent ally in the region. He could envision the possibilities for collaboration and the benefits that such a relationship may provide. He realized that having Genoa on his side would be extremely beneficial in the impending Italian campaign; nonetheless, he continued the conversation as if the present topic did not interest him.

"What kind of support do you have in mind?" he said, curious as to what the Genoese believed they could provide him.

"First and foremost, your highness, we could lend you some ships to arrive in Sicily unopposed by sea, but aside from that, we would be willing to send troops to your noble and just cause."

Conradin realized the Genoese expected something in exchange, so he questioned more; after all, no dog would deliberately spew bones from his mouth without expecting meat in return.

"What would you ask for in return for such a generous offer?" Conradin inquired. "We always appreciate any assistance that our allies can provide, but we also recognize the value of a mutually beneficial relationship."

What are your terms for this partnership, and why are you negotiating here rather than with Charles?

The Genoese were clearly looking to bargain, and he was eager to do so. Any such alliance would almost certainly consist of a complex set of agreements with numerous conditions and concessions on both sides. It would almost certainly necessitate him being both flexible and cautious in his dealings, but he was confident in his ability to do so.

''Well, your highness, in response to your last inquiry, we came to you because there can be no peace between the Genoese republics and the pope's dog." Conradin realized after hearing the remark that Charles most likely favored Venetian merchants over Genoese merchants, earning the wrath of the latter.

"All we ask for your majesty," Enrico Doria added, "is that you show goodwill toward trade with Genoa by favoring our merchants."

Conradin was caught off guard when he heard this. He realized the ramifications for his kingdom's economic and political levels, but he also saw that he was too weak and needed all the allies he could get, so he consented to the agreement.

''Of course, noble envoy, how could I not show such gratitude to your country after all the assistance I would be able to receive? In exchange for your support, I would gladly provide every Genoese trader a pass that allows them to pay half the taxes which would be typically necessary for other mercantile endeavors.

Enrico was not pleased when he heard this. Knowing they could benefit more, he pressed Conradin to give them better terms.

''While your proposition is a fantastic place to start, it may not be enough. "Why not completely abolish taxes?" he reasoned. ''After all, you'd have a lot of backing from a powerful republic." Conradin, on the other hand, responded immediately,by dismissing the proposal.

"I apologize, but I am unable to do so, and I am forced to offer the previous terms again."

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