The return of the fallen king

Chapter 8: Negotation with the king of Bohemia (1)

<<''Diplomacy is the art of telling people to go to hell in such a way that they ask for directions.''>>

---Winston Churchill

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Conradin and his companions were ushered into the palace, where they were separated and led to different rooms. As Conradin traversed the palace's corridors, he couldn't help but be awestruck by the opulence and grandeur that surrounded him. Ornate decorations adorned the walls, and magnificent architecture greeted his every step. The palace's beauty was beyond compare, and Conradin felt a profound sense of privilege to be in such surroundings.

The evening unfolded with a series of magnificent palatial halls, each more impressive than the last. Conradin was overwhelmed by the splendor and magnificence he encountered. The warmth and respect shown to him by his hosts only added to his satisfaction.

Upon entering the room designated for him, Conradin immediately requested that the attendants prepare a meal. His diet during his voyage had consisted mainly of jerky meat, wine, and occasional game from hunting, and he needed a hearty supper to regain his strength. He savored the flavors of the meal and washed it down with a glass of fine wine, fully aware that he needed to be in peak condition for the crucial meeting with the King of Bohemia the next day.

As he finished his supper, Conradin took a deep breath and allowed himself a moment of reflection and contemplation. He needed to be calm, composed, and prepared for the encounter that lay ahead. The meal and the ambiance of the palace helped him find serenity amidst the anticipation.

With his thoughts racing, Conradin retired to his bed, where he mulled over the possible arguments and strategies he could employ to persuade Ottokar to lend him the much-needed gold. Sleep would be essential for the busy day that awaited him, and he hoped that his preparations and determination would lead to a successful negotiation with the King of Bohemia.

The following morning, Conradin was awakened by a polite knock on his door. He knew he had a demanding day ahead of him, and he wanted to approach his meeting with the King of Bohemia with a fresh and composed demeanor. Taking a deep breath, he stretched and mentally prepared himself for the challenges that lay ahead. He understood the importance of maintaining his composure and wit to achieve his goal.

As he rose from his bed, Conradin began to dress, a task typically handled by servants. However, since his youth, when he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt by a servant, Conradin had insisted on dressing himself in the mornings. It was a precautionary measure he had taken ever since, ensuring that no one would have the opportunity to harm him while he was vulnerable.

Once he was fully dressed, Conradin opened his door to find a castle servant waiting to convey an invitation from the King of Bohemia for breakfast.

"Well, please inform your king that I will join him shortly," he responded succinctly to the servant.

With that, Conradin left his room and made his way down the grand hallways of the palace. He paused only when he reached the door to the breakfast room. The opulence and exquisite surroundings of the palace never ceased to captivate him. As he was escorted into the breakfast room, he couldn't help but admire the fine craftsmanship and attention to detail that adorned the palace.

The breakfast table demonstrated the culinary skills of the palace's chefs, who clearly took great pride in their work. Delicacies from both the local region and beyond were carefully presented, showcasing the finest ingredients and flavors of the land. Conradin knew that this meeting over breakfast held great significance, and he was prepared to use this opportunity to further his goals. As Conradin arrived there he immediately greeted Ottokar and his wife, Kuninguda, and inquired about their infant son's health.

''King Conradin, good morning to you as well. I am pleased to say that our son is doing well and is growing healthy .'' Queen Kuninguda said shortly as if she was bored my the meeting

The three then sat and started eating the lavish supper while conversing. The queen of Bohemia excused herself after breakfast, leaving Conradin and Ottokar alone. Starting the negotiations between the two, as she was probably compelled to do so by her husband.

''I suppose we both know what we are to talk about'' Ottokar spoke as he pushed his food aside while gazing at the young boy in front of him

''I believe it is time then'' Conradin nodded solemnly, his young face showing a mix of determination and apprehension.

Ottokar's gaze bore into Conradin, unwavering and intent. It was clear that the Bohemian king was a seasoned diplomat and negotiator, a fact that did not escape Conradin's notice. Still, the young king held his composure, his resolve firm as he embarked on this pivotal conversation.

The room, adorned with opulent decorations and bathed in the soft morning light, provided a stark contrast to the weighty subject at hand. Conradin knew that his request for financial support was not a mere formality; it was a test of his persuasive skills, an opportunity to demonstrate the potential benefits of their alliance.

Conradin leaned forward, his voice steady and earnest. "King Ottokar, I understand the gravity of my request, and I do not make it lightly. Sicily was taken from me, and I am determined to reclaim my rightful kingdom. With your support, we can achieve this together."

Ottokar listened attentively, his expression unreadable. " What guarantees can you offer that this investment will yield returns?"

Conradin's gaze met Ottokar's, unwavering. "First and foremost, you would secure an ally in Sicily, one of the most strategic and fertile regions in Europe. The land there is so fertile that it can yield great profits from grain and rye cultivation. As such, repayment would not be a daunting challenge."

Ottokar considered this, his fingers tapping thoughtfully on the polished table. "A fertile land is indeed valuable, but it also depends on stability. What assurances can you provide that Sicily will remain stable, that your rule will be recognized and respected?"

Conradin knew this question would arise, and he had prepared his response carefully. "You are correct in your concern for stability, King Ottokar. Sicily is not a foreign land to me; it is my homeland, and I have the support of many Sicilian nobles and citizens who yearn for the return of their legitimate king. Furthermore, there are Muslim populations in Sicily who fear the French will disrupt their way of life.

They are aware that I would be more tolerant and protective of their interests."

Conradin's statement though was only partially true because he left out the fact that most of the lords had undoubtedly lost their elite troops, and those who hadn't,had forsaken his uncle during his battle, which would mean that they would not be particularly trustworthy followers. 'But he doesn't need to know that , does he?'', Conradin reasoned while softly laughing in his mind , theorizing that Ottokar's understanding of Sicilian matters was limited to just a few rumors

He was in fact correct, for Ottokar could not really grasp the kingdom's predicament; otherwise, he would not have taken Conradin's word so easily. Of course, Ottokar said,'' many easy invasions turned out to be disasters, so why don't we skip this subject for the time being and talk about something else?Let us make a big jump and assume that the war is successful . What will compel you to pay me back ? Since it would be a long way here from Sicily, I would be unable to utilize my forces to persuade you to pay me back, and the prospect of dominating the wealthier and more fruitful lands of Magna Grecia will undoubtedly outweigh your holding in the duchy of Swabia, which undeniably crosses out military operations as a way to compel you to repay your debt.''

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