บท 30: Chapter 29: Bargain with the Sultan of Marid Jinn( part 1)
The quiet hum of activity in the Shadowed Cliffs Fortress hinted at the monumental task ahead. Raizer Phoenix sat at the head of the long table in his private meeting room, his hands steepled as he listened to Yubelluna lay out the final details for his upcoming audience with the Sultan of the Marid Jinn.
"…The Marid Jinn rarely entertain outsiders, let alone grant formal audiences," Yubelluna said, flipping through her clipboard with practiced efficiency. "Even the Devil Council hasn't had much success with them in recent centuries."
"And yet, here we are," Raizer replied, his tone calm. "A direct invitation from the Sultan himself. Either he's curious, or he has his own agenda."
Yubelluna nodded. "Likely both. The Marid Jinn are a proud and ancient race. They value strength, culture, and respect. This meeting could open doors few have dared to approach."
"Or it could slam them shut," Raizer said with a smirk. "Which is why we'll make sure it doesn't."
Planning the Gifts
The room was filled with Raizer's closest advisors and members of his peerage. Yubelluna had meticulously prepared a list of potential gifts to present to the Sultan, each carefully chosen to reflect the diversity and depth of Raizer's growing influence.
"This isn't just about generosity," Yubelluna explained, gesturing to the items on the list. "It's about showing respect for their culture and values. We need to demonstrate that we understand them—at least enough to pique their interest."
Garp, leaning back in his chair, picked up a sample jar of Indian spices and gave it a curious sniff. "You think they care about stuff like this? Feels more like we're buttering them up."
"That's part of diplomacy," Yubelluna replied, unfazed. "The Marid Jinn value thoughtfulness. The gifts are as much a message as they are offerings."
"Messages, huh?" Shiki floated above the group, holding a silk lantern from Vietnam. "Like, 'Hey, we brought shiny things—now talk to us'?"
Raizer chuckled, shaking his head. "It's about more than the items themselves. Every gift has to mean something. They're symbols of what we bring to the table—connections, respect, and an understanding of the world beyond their borders."
The Selected Gifts
The final list of gifts was a testament to Raizer's growing trade networks and alliances.
• Chinese Silk and Rare Tea: To represent refinement and ancient tradition.
• Indian Spices and Sweets: A symbol of richness and variety, with spices chosen to highlight the complexity of flavor.
• Japanese Kimonos and Wagashi: Elegant attire and delicate sweets that spoke of simplicity and artistry.
• Vietnamese Lanterns and Coffee: Bright symbols of hospitality and bold, unique flavors.
• Korean Ceramics and Traditional Liquors: Crafted by artisans, representing strength and dedication.
• Thai Carvings and Desserts: A blend of natural beauty and indulgence, representing harmony and craftsmanship.
"Everything is set," Yubelluna concluded, looking at Raizer. "We'll have representatives prepare and arrange the gifts as per your instructions."
Raizer nodded, glancing at the detailed list. "Good. The gifts aren't just a formality—they're an opening move. The Sultan will judge us before we've even said a word."
The Peerage Weighs In
Raizer's peerage had varying opinions on the entire ordeal.
Roger leaned on the edge of the table, grinning. "Seems a bit much, doesn't it? All this planning for one meeting? Why not just show up, shake the guy's hand, and get it over with?"
"Because this isn't about us," Mihawk replied, his tone even. "It's about them. They hold the power here, not us."
"Exactly," Yubelluna said, nodding toward Mihawk. "The Marid Jinn aren't like the factions we've dealt with before. They don't care about brute strength or flashy displays. They care about respect and balance."
Garp snorted, crossing his arms. "Balance is overrated. But fine, if this is how they play, we'll play along. Just tell me when I get to punch something."
"Hopefully never," Yubelluna muttered, though there was a hint of a smile on her face.
Raizer raised a hand to quiet the group. "We're not here to change their ways. We're here to show them we can adapt. That's what will set us apart."
A Rare Invitation
The invitation from the Sultan had come through an unexpected channel—an envoy of the Marid Jinn who appeared unannounced at the Shadowed Cliffs. The envoy, a tall figure with shimmering, translucent skin and a voice like rolling thunder, had delivered the message with little ceremony.
"The Sultan of the Marid Jinn grants Raizer Phoenix an audience," the envoy had said, his tone both commanding and neutral. "Bring with you what you believe will speak of your worth. The Sultan is… curious."
Those words had set everything in motion. The meeting wasn't just an opportunity—it was a test.
The Journey to the Marid Realm
When the day finally arrived, Raizer and a small delegation set out for the Marid Jinn's realm. The journey itself was no small feat, requiring passage through shimmering sands that stretched endlessly beneath a blazing sun.
As they traveled, the atmosphere among the group was calm but charged with anticipation.
"This place feels… surreal," Yubelluna said, shading her eyes against the bright light. "It's like the desert itself is alive."
"It probably is," Roger quipped. "Wouldn't surprise me if the sand started talking."
Shiki floated lazily above the group, surveying the landscape. "I've seen a lot of places, but this? It's something else. You can tell these guys aren't messing around."
As they neared their destination, the desert gave way to towering spires of gold and crystal, their surfaces reflecting the sunlight in dazzling patterns. The Marid palace was unlike anything Raizer had seen before—grand yet ethereal, as though it existed slightly out of phase with the world around it.
"Impressive," Raizer murmured, his golden eyes taking in every detail.
First Impressions
The group was met at the palace gates by a procession of Jinn attendants. Their forms shimmered like heat waves, and their movements were smooth and deliberate. Without a word, they escorted Raizer and his delegation into the palace's inner chambers.
The atmosphere inside was cool and serene, a stark contrast to the heat of the desert. Intricate mosaics adorned the walls, depicting scenes of cosmic harmony and celestial power.
"This place is… overwhelming," Yubelluna admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
"It's meant to be," Mihawk said quietly. "This is a show of their strength without a single word being spoken."
Raizer remained calm, his expression neutral as they were led into a waiting area. The gifts they had brought were arranged carefully, each item presented with care and precision.
"The Sultan will see you shortly," one of the attendants said, their voice like a soft breeze.
The Calm Before the Storm
As they waited, Raizer leaned back in his chair, glancing at his peerage. "This is it. Stay sharp, but don't overthink it. Remember, we're here to learn as much as we are to offer."
Roger grinned. "Relax, boss. We've got this."
Shiki floated a few inches off the ground, his smirk lazy. "If they don't like us, we'll just bring them more shiny things. Everyone loves shiny things."
Yubelluna gave him a sharp look but said nothing.
Raizer closed his eyes for a moment, steadying himself. This was only the beginning, but it was a beginning that could shape the future of his entire operation.
"Let's see what the Sultan has to say," he murmured.
The grand doors to the audience chamber began to open, and the air itself seemed to shift.
This chapter sets a slower, more deliberate pace, focusing on the preparation and anticipation leading up to the meeting with the Sultan of the Marid Jinn. Let me know if further adjustments or expansions are needed!
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