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Dark Moon Third Arc (Fallen Heart) - 370. Smooth Negotiations
🕑 Added 2025-02-06 08:59:41 +0000 UTCThird Arc (Fallen Heart) - 370. Smooth Negotiations
Angel chuckled softly, leaning forward just enough to close some of the space between them. “Strength is only part of the equation. Strategy, innovation—those are what sustain a kingdom. Pontus seems to have mastered both.”
“Mastered?” Cassian repeated with a faint smile. “You flatter us, Your Majesty. I assure you, we have our challenges.”
“Every kingdom does,” Angel said smoothly. “But few navigate them as gracefully as Pontus appears to. I’d imagine that level of precision requires more than just leadership—it requires understanding the intricacies of your resources, your people, your land.”
Cassian’s gaze sharpened, though his expression remained pleasant. “It does. Leadership, after all, is about more than just ruling. It’s about foresight. Understanding when to act and when to wait.”
Angel nodded, his smirk softening. “Exactly. And sometimes, understanding comes best from experience. Seeing things firsthand, rather than relying solely on reports or secondhand accounts.”
Rose’s eyes flicked to Angel, catching the subtle shift in his tone. He was baiting, laying the groundwork for something without making it too obvious.
Cassian seemed to pick up on it as well, though he didn’t take the bait immediately. Instead, he took a measured sip of his wine, his gaze steady on Angel. “I agree. There’s much to be learned from firsthand experience. Though I imagine it’s not often a king has the opportunity to leave his own borders for a simple thing like that.”
“True,” Angel admitted with a faint chuckle. “But I’m different. When the opportunity arises, it’s worth considering. Seeing how another kingdom operates, understanding its strengths—it’s invaluable.”
There was a brief pause, the air between them charged with unspoken intent. Finally, Cassian spoke, his tone measured but carrying a hint of intrigue. “If you’re ever inclined to visit Pontus, Your Majesty, I’m certain we could arrange something. There’s much to see—our ports, for example, are unmatched in their efficiency.”
Angel’s smirk widened slightly, though his tone remained casual. “That’s a tempting offer. I’ve heard much about your ports. It would be fascinating to see them in person.”
“Then perhaps we should make it happen,” Cassian said, his voice carrying a note of finality. “Pontus would be honored to host you.”
Rose hid her smile behind her wine glass, her gaze flicking between the two men. Angel’s bait had worked perfectly, the conversation now exactly where he wanted it. But she knew better than to relax just yet—the real work was only beginning.
Angel nodded, his expression thoughtful. “I appreciate the invitation, Duke Cassian. It’s an opportunity I’d be foolish to pass up.”
Cassian inclined his head, his smile faint but genuine. “The feeling is mutual, Your Majesty. A visit from Euphorion’s king would be a significant moment for Pontus.”
Rose decided to interject, her tone light but carrying just enough warmth to ease the tension. “It sounds like a promising exchange. Pontus and Euphorion working together could achieve remarkable things.”
Cassian turned his attention to her, his expression softening slightly. “You’re quite right, Your Majesty. Collaboration often leads to innovation.”
Angel glanced at Rose briefly, a flicker of approval in his eyes. “Then let’s ensure this is the start of something productive—for both our kingdoms.”
Cassian nodded, raising his glass. “To new beginnings, then.”
“To new beginnings,” Angel echoed, his smirk returning as their glasses clinked together. But in his mind, he was already planning his next move. The invitation was only the first step. The real game had only just begun.
Cassian gave a small bow. “Your Majesty, I won’t keep you from your guests any longer. I’ll take my leave and enjoy the rest of the evening.”
Angel inclined his head, his expression remaining composed. “Of course. Enjoy the party, Duke Cassian.”
The duke nodded, offering a polite smile before turning and making his way back toward his delegation. Angel’s gaze followed him for a few moments, watching the way he carried himself, how he subtly exchanged glances with his advisors. Even in retreat, Cassian was calculating. That was good—it meant he had something to protect, something Angel could eventually use.
“Still watching him?” Rose’s voice was light, teasing, as she stepped closer to him.
Angel exhaled softly, finally shifting his focus away from the duke. “Just making sure he doesn’t suddenly disappear,” he joked.
Rose turned her gaze toward the crowd, scanning the room with a thoughtful expression. “Seems like things are going as you expected.”
Angel nodded, his smirk faint. “So far, yes. Hopefully, all of it.”
Her eyes flicked back to him, a knowing glint in them. “And if it doesn’t?”
Angel chuckled, tilting his head slightly. “Then I’ll adjust.”
