CHAPTER 7
901 Words
He nods, his usual levity replaced by focus.
"Understood. No flowery words or courtly manners. Just straight talk and a firm handshake, eh?"
They arrive at the Sansang village, greeted by stern-faced warriors.
He eyes the newcomers warily.
"So, the Chongsan prince graces us with his presence. What brings you to our humble abode?"
He bows slightly, meeting the elder's gaze.
"Elder, we come seeking alliance against a common foe. The Gojhang Empire threatens us all."
He raises an eyebrow.
"And why should we care about your squabbles with Gojhang? Our tribe has remained neutral for generations."
She steps forward.
"With respect, Elder, neutrality is a luxury we can no longer afford. Gojhang's appetite grows with each conquest."
He nods in agreement.
"Captain Yuna speaks truth. Today, they eye Chongsan. Tomorrow, who knows? The Sansang forests may not be safe for long."
The elder's eyes narrow, a flicker of concern crossing his weathered face.
He strokes his beard.
"Pretty words, prince. But what proof do you offer of this... growing appetite?"
He produces the stolen documents.
"These plans, freshly acquired from Gojhang's own command post. Their ambitions are laid bare here."
She adds quietly.
"We risked much to obtain this intelligence, Elder. It speaks of expansion far beyond Chongsan's borders."
The elder examines the documents, his expression growing grave.
He looks up at Bimboryeo and Yuna.
"This... this changes things. But an alliance? Our warriors are not soldiers, prince."
He leans forward.
"We don't ask for soldiers, Elder. Your knowledge of these forests, your stealth... these are worth more than a thousand swords."
She nods in agreement.
"Together, we can disrupt Gojhang's supply lines, confuse their troops. A ghost army in the trees."
He exchanges glances with other elders.
"You propose an interesting strategy, young ones. But such an alliance would come at great risk to our people."
He stands tall.
"A risk we all face, Elder. But united, we stand a chance. Divided, we fall one by one."
She places a hand on her heart.
"We offer our blood, sweat, and tears alongside yours. For the freedom of all our peoples."
A tense silence falls over the gathering. The fate of nations hangs in the balance.
He closes his eyes, weighing the decision.
"Your words carry weight, prince. But words are wind. How do you propose to prove your commitment?"
Her eyes widen. "Your Highness! That's-"
He raises a hand to silence Yuna.
"It's the Sansang way, is it not? Blood for blood, trust for trust."
The elder's expression shifts, a glimmer of respect in his eyes.
He nods slowly.
"You surprise me, prince. Few outsiders understand our ways so well."
She steps closer to Bimboryeo.
"Your Highness, perhaps we should discuss this further before-"
He winks at Yuna.
"Worry not, Captain. I've no intention of losing my head. It's far too pretty."
A ripple of laughter runs through the gathered Sansang warriors.
He chuckles, then grows serious.
"Very well, Prince Bimboryeo. We accept your oath and your alliance."
He bows deeply.
"You honor us, Elder. Chongsan will not forget this day."
Suddenly, a commotion erupts at the village entrance.
He bursts into the clearing, panting.
"Best deal in all of Seonjin! Or should I say, best deal for the Sansang?"
She reaches for her weapon.
"What in the world? How did you-"
He laughs in disbelief.
"By the ancestors, it's our merchant friend from the festival!"
He puffs out his chest.
"Indeed it is! And I bring news from Chongsan. Your father, the King, sends gifts to seal the alliance!"
The Sansang warriors murmur in amazement as the merchant lists the offerings.
He counts on his fingers.
"Thirty thousand swords, twenty thousand horses, ten thousand sacks of rice, and ten thousand sacks of salt!"
His eyebrows shoot up.
"Such generosity... Your father moves swiftly, prince."
He shakes his head, grinning.
"It seems my father's spy network is even more impressive than I thought. Though his choice of messenger is... unconventional."
She narrows her eyes at the merchant.
"How do we know this isn't some Gojhang trick?"
He places a hand over his heart.
"My dear Captain, I may be many things, but a liar? Never! Bad for business, you know."
He strokes his chin.
"He speaks truth, Yuna. Remember how he unknowingly aided us at the festival? Sometimes, the most unlikely allies are the most valuable."
He claps his hands together.
"Then it's settled. The alliance is forged. Now, let us feast to celebrate this new partnership!"
He grins widely.
"Now that's what I call a proper end to negotiations! Shall we finally have that victory drink, Captain?"
She sighs, but can't hide her smile.
"I suppose we've earned it, Your Highness. But remember, we still have a war to plan."
He rubs his hands together.
"And I have wares to sell! Who wants the best deal in all of Sansang?"
As night falls, the Sansang village comes alive with celebration.
He raises a cup of rice wine.
"To new alliances and old lands! May our victory be as sweet as this wine!"
He scurries around, offering his wares.
"Best deal in all of Sansang! Celebratory charms, only five copper pieces!"
She shakes her head at the merchant's antics.
"Your Highness, perhaps we should pace ourselves. We've much to discuss come morning."
He waves off her concern, cheeks flushed.
"Nonsense, Captain! Tonight, we drink like kings... or, well, princes!"
- Writer
