Expansion Taking Salara | The Great Deal

[Kingdom Of Espada]

King Taerion exchanged a look with his advisors, each one giving a slight nod of approval. He turned to Agatha, a hint of a smile breaking his usually stern demeanor.

“Lady Agatha,” he began, “I commend your diplomacy and the respect you’ve shown for Salara’s people and their talents. Your clarity and willingness to address our concerns do much to reassure us of Espada’s intentions. This integration is indeed a bold step for us, but one that feels grounded and just.”

The master of coin leaned forward, satisfied yet cautious. “The proposed financial transparency and the split-tax approach appear fair, especially with Espada covering the initial costs of infrastructure improvements. We can begin drafting formal agreements, and I’ll work closely with my counterparts to ensure all details are in order.”

The military commander added, “Your commitment to joint command structures and training exercises is exactly what our troops need to feel unity in this transition. I believe our soldiers will appreciate this approach, and it will foster the trust needed for our forces to work together seamlessly.”

Taerion nodded as he addressed Agatha once more. “The inclusion of our architects and laborers in the building projects honors Salara’s heritage and talent, and it will keep the people invested in these changes. Your openness on this matter strengthens our belief in this alliance.”

After a thoughtful pause, Taerion continued. “The council seat is a gesture we do not take lightly, and it will mean much to Salara’s people to know that their voice is part of the empire’s highest decisions. This alliance now feels as it should—a partnership of strength, respect, and purpose.”

One of the younger advisors spoke, clearly moved. “Lady Agatha, your vision of integration honors both Salara’s past and Espada’s future. We can see the trust and loyalty that King Marcus inspires, and we are ready to be a part of that vision.”

Finally, King Taerion rose, extending his hand to Agatha. “Let us finalize this, Lady Agatha. Together, we will make Salara not only a jewel in Espada’s crown but a heart that beats with pride and purpose within this new empire.”

The advisors echoed their support, their expressions confident, now fully committed to the integration with Espada.

 

[The Night Court]

With King Taerion’s blessing, Agatha immediately set to work, dedicating herself to ensuring a seamless integration for Salara. She organized a series of structured meetings with Salara’s leaders across various sectors: finance, infrastructure, defense, and trade, with each session tailored to address the specific needs and strengths of their city.

First, Agatha met with the master of coin, establishing a detailed timeline for the distribution of Espadian funds earmarked for infrastructure. She reviewed budgets, ensuring they not only supported Salara’s growth but honored its unique character and architectural style. Together, they crafted a plan for tracking expenses and growth projections, with regular audits to maintain transparency and trust.

Next, she collaborated with the head architect and Salara’s chief engineer, diving into plans for modernizing the city’s defenses and expanding trade routes. Espada’s resources would bring fortified city walls, state-of-the-art watchtowers, and secure roadways to ensure safe and efficient passage for merchants and residents alike. Agatha emphasized that local laborers and craftsmen would be at the forefront, ensuring that these changes felt intrinsic to Salara rather than imposed.

In discussions with the commander of Salara’s military, she detailed plans for joint training initiatives and blended command structures. Together, they organized rotational programs where Salara’s soldiers would train alongside Espadian forces, encouraging trust and mutual respect. Agatha stressed that each leader would retain their authority within the city, creating an alliance rather than a takeover

Finally, Agatha convened with Salara’s trade guild leaders, presenting them with Espada’s vision of Salara as the empire’s central trading hub. She outlined plans to build new merchant districts and proposed favorable tariffs to encourage both local and international traders to establish strong ties within Salara. The goal was to make Salara not only a prosperous city but also a renowned center of commerce and cultural exchange.

Throughout the process, Agatha moved meticulously, meeting with King Taerion and his advisors regularly to review the progress and make adjustments as needed. With each step, she ensured that Salara’s leaders felt empowered, respected, and fully integrated into Espada’s plans, forging a partnership that would shape a strong and prosperous future for both Salara and the empire.

 

[The Night Court]

Agatha met with Salara’s master of coin, Lord Gerand, in the grand chambers of the palace. He was a meticulous man, known for his sharp mind and unyielding attention to detail. Together, they delved into a comprehensive financial strategy, ensuring that every coin spent would benefit Salara and strengthen its position within the Espadian empire.

Lord Gerand began by laying out the city’s existing financial structure, focusing on key revenue sources such as trade tariffs, agricultural levies, and artisan guild taxes. “Lady Agatha,” he said, pointing to a detailed ledger, “Salara’s income has long been reliant on these traditional streams. However, with integration, we’ll need to account for a larger influx of resources and restructure the system to ensure it remains both sustainable and beneficial.”

Agatha nodded, impressed by his analysis. She proposed a shared-revenue system, where Salara would retain a portion of its existing income streams while benefiting from Espadian investments, especially in the form of expanded trade and upgraded infrastructure.

Step 1: Financial Integration Timeline

Agatha and Gerand crafted a phased timeline for financial integration:


1. Initial Phase (0-3 months): During the initial integration, Espada would inject capital into Salara to cover all infrastructure upgrades and military enhancements. These funds would be earmarked exclusively for specific projects and managed jointly by Salara’s financial office and Espadian overseers.


2. Intermediate Phase (3-12 months): Once the initial upgrades were underway, tax revenues from Salara’s core industries (trade, agriculture, and guilds) would be split. The city would retain 60% of these revenues, while the remaining 40% would contribute to Espada’s treasury. This split would continue until Salara’s new industries and markets reached maturity.


3. Long-Term Phase (After 12 months): As Salara’s economy stabilized and the benefits of Espadian support became tangible, the revenue split would shift to 50-50. This equal partnership symbolized Salara’s valued place within the empire while ensuring both the city and the empire could grow financially.

Step 2: Auditing and Transparency

Lord Gerand, wary of losing oversight, insisted on a system of rigorous audits. Agatha agreed, emphasizing Espada’s commitment to transparency. Together, they created a framework:

• Monthly Audits conducted by Salara’s financial office with oversight from an Espadian financial delegate.


• Quarterly Reports shared with both Salara’s council and Espada’s central treasury, detailing revenue, expenditure, and progress on infrastructure projects.


• Yearly Reviews where both Salara and Espada’s representatives would evaluate the financial integration’s success and make adjustments as needed.

Step 3: Infrastructure Investment Breakdown

Gerand presented a list of priority areas that would require immediate funding:

1. City Walls and Defenses: A significant investment was needed here to bring Salara’s defenses in line with Espadian standards. Agatha confirmed that this would be fully financed by Espada in the initial phase.


2. Merchant Quarters Expansion: Salara’s role as a trade hub would necessitate a larger, modernized district for merchants. Agatha allocated a generous sum from Espada’s treasury, agreeing that this would be a key focus to boost the city’s economic standing.


3. Public Infrastructure: Roads, water systems, and sanitation were highlighted by Gerand as areas that would need upgrades to handle increased trade and population growth. Espada’s engineers and funds would be dedicated here as well.

Step 4: Incentives for Local Trade and Guilds

Understanding that the success of integration depended on local buy-in, Gerand proposed a set of financial incentives for Salara’s trade guilds and artisans:

• Reduced Guild Taxes for the First Year to encourage local guilds to expand and meet the demands of increased trade.


• Subsidies for Local Merchants who were willing to invest in expanded trade routes and partnerships within Espada.


• Special Trade Tariffs offering reduced rates to merchants who traded within Espadian territories, making Salara’s markets highly attractive.

Agatha agreed to these incentives, understanding they would encourage Salara’s businesses to adapt and thrive within the larger empire.

Step 5: Creating a Reserve Fund

As a final measure, Gerand proposed establishing a Reserve Fund, financed jointly by Salara and Espada. This fund would serve as a financial safety net, used for emergency repairs, economic downturns, or other unforeseen expenses related to the integration.

Agatha approved, recognizing this fund as a gesture of good faith and a step toward long-term stability. The reserve fund would be built gradually, with both Salara and Espada contributing a portion of their split revenue.


With the plan solidified, Agatha looked to Gerand with appreciation. “Your prudence and insight will be invaluable as Salara enters this new era. Espada is committed to building this future with you and ensuring that Salara prospers as one of its brightest centers.”

Gerand nodded, satisfaction in his expression. “Lady Agatha, I see now that Espada truly values its allies. Salara will do its part to make this alliance a success.”

 

[The Night Court]

Agatha met with Salara’s chief architect, Master Orvin, and the head of city infrastructure, Dame Linara, in the central planning chambers. Maps of Salara stretched across the tables, with blueprints of the city’s streets, defenses, and waterways on display. The plan to elevate Salara into a jewel of the Espadian empire required a comprehensive approach to construction, from towering defenses to sleek, modern marketplaces that would set the city apart as a beacon of trade and culture.

Step 1: Strengthening City Defenses

Master Orvin opened with plans for reinforcing the city’s walls and watchtowers to reflect the Espadian standard of fortification. He proposed:

• Enhanced Ramparts and Wall Extensions: The walls would be thickened and raised, with layered defenses to better withstand siege attacks. Espadian stone, known for its durability, would be transported to Salara to create a resilient structure.


• Guard Towers Equipped with Modern Armaments: These watchtowers would be placed at intervals around the city walls, each fitted with heavy crossbows and provisions for archers.


• A Central Fortress Keep: Located near the Palace of Winds, this fortress would serve as the ultimate fallback in the event of an invasion, with space to house thousands of citizens in case of emergency.

Agatha approved, understanding that strong defenses would not only protect Salara but would also demonstrate Espada’s commitment to the city’s safety. “Marcus sees Salara as more than a trade hub; it’s a symbol of strength,” she told Orvin. “Your designs will ensure that symbol stands tall against any threat.”

Step 2: Modernized Marketplaces and Trade Quarters

Dame Linara moved on to outline the plans for the Mercantile District. This area would need to cater to merchants from all corners of the empire and beyond, creating a vibrant trade center that would drive Salara’s economy forward. She presented several proposals:

• Open-Air Marketplaces and Covered Bazaars: These would include spacious, sheltered areas that could accommodate both daily trading stalls and larger caravans.


• Merchant Halls and Trade Guild Buildings: Linara proposed building dedicated halls where guilds could meet, negotiate trade deals, and showcase their goods.


• Port Improvements for Inland Trade Routes: Although Salara was not directly coastal, improvements to nearby river ports and establishing swift roadways to coastal cities would bring maritime trade closer to the city.

Agatha added, “We’ll incentivize trade through tax breaks for the first two years and provide merchant security. This district needs to be both impressive and functional; it’s not just for Salara, but to attract traders from across the empire.”

Step 3: Public Infrastructure Upgrades

Next, they turned to the city’s internal infrastructure to ensure Salara could accommodate its growth. Linara detailed the city’s current systems and outlined the improvements necessary for long-term sustainability:

• Road Widening and Paving: The main roads leading from the gates to the central marketplace would be expanded and repaved with reinforced stone. Secondary streets would also be improved for easy navigation.


• Aqueducts and Water Distribution System: Fresh water would be essential for a bustling trade hub, so new aqueducts would channel water from the nearby rivers, while upgraded piping would bring it to every corner of the city.


• Sanitation and Waste Management: Dame Linara proposed building an advanced sanitation system that could handle the waste produced by an influx of residents, traders, and travelers.

Agatha emphasized the need for reliability. “We need every citizen and visitor to feel the Espadian touch—from clear streets to running water, Salara will be an example of what it means to be a part of the empire.”

Step 4: Cultural and Educational Centers

To strengthen Salara’s identity as a center of culture and knowledge, Orvin suggested the construction of cultural institutions:

• The Espadian Great Hall: A monumental building where the King of Salara could host events, and traveling scholars, musicians, and artists could perform. This would become the cultural heart of the city.


• Academies and Libraries: New educational institutions would be built, with Espada providing scholars and funds to help the city’s youth learn trades, languages, and arts essential to the empire’s prosperity.


• Temples and Public Gardens: To honor local customs and provide tranquil spaces, Orvin suggested building lush gardens and temples, funded by Espada, and accessible to all citizens.

Agatha agreed wholeheartedly, remarking, “Marcus wishes for every city in his empire to flourish in knowledge and culture. Let Salara be a symbol of unity, where traditions of Salara and Espada meet and flourish together.”

Step 5: Timeline and Workforce Allocation

Linara, always practical, brought up the challenge of workforce management and setting a realistic timeline. She proposed:

• Hiring Local Workers: This would not only speed up the process but also integrate the people of Salara into Espadian projects, making them stakeholders in their own city’s growth.


• Espadian Engineers and Supervisors: A team of Espadian architects, engineers, and foremen would oversee each major project to ensure they met the highest standards.


• A Three-Year Completion Goal: Linara estimated that the bulk of these plans could be achieved within three years, pending good weather and cooperation among all parties.

Agatha turned to both Orvin and Linara, saying, “Marcus and I have every faith in your expertise. We will make resources and manpower available as needed. This transformation is the beginning of Salara’s role in the empire—a beacon of strength, commerce, and unity.”

With the plans finalized, Agatha felt a surge of pride. Salara would soon be more than just a city within Espada; it would become one of its defining pillars.

 

[The Night Court]

Agatha made her way to the barracks of Salara’s army, where she was greeted by Commander Eryndor, a seasoned military leader known for his loyalty to King Taerion and a keen mind for battlefield strategy. His reputation had preceded him, and Agatha respected his disciplined approach and devotion to his city. Now, as Espada and Salara were unified under Marcus’ empire, it was essential to align their military strategies and ensure Eryndor’s forces felt integrated into the greater Espadian army rather than subjugated.

Opening Remarks and Goals for Integration

Agatha began by outlining Marcus’ vision for Salara’s military role. “Commander Eryndor, as part of Espada, Salara is no longer a standalone kingdom defending its borders. You’re a vital part of something larger—an empire with goals that reach beyond the horizon. Marcus envisions Salara as both a stronghold and a beacon for allies, a place where soldiers train not only in defense but in offense, where strategy aligns with purpose.”

Eryndor listened intently, nodding as Agatha laid out her points. He understood the importance of joining forces effectively but held a cautious outlook. “I see your vision, Lady Agatha,” he began, “and while my men are steadfast, they will need time to adjust. Their loyalty is to Salara; how can we ensure their dedication to Espada without undermining their pride in their homeland?”

To answer his question, Agatha explained a detailed plan that would allow Salara’s forces to retain their identity while transitioning seamlessly into the empire:

1. Unit Preservation with New Espadian Titles


Instead of dismantling Salara’s units, Agatha suggested preserving their current structures but renaming them to fit within Espada’s command hierarchy. She assured Eryndor that his officers would retain their titles, while gaining Espadian ranks that would signify their importance within the empire.


• “Your elite units—Salara’s Silverguard, the Sable Knights, and even the local militia—will continue to be respected entities. They’ll become, say, the Silverguard of Espada, holding rank as Marcus’ personal allies. This keeps their identity while signaling to all they are trusted within the empire.”


2. Joint Training Exercises


Agatha proposed integrating Salara’s forces with those of Espada through joint training exercises, starting immediately.


• “We’ll bring some of Espada’s finest to train here in Salara and introduce shared tactics that will allow your men to retain their strengths. We believe in a balance of skills and methods. Espada’s mages, musketeers, and cavalry forces will learn from Salara’s swordmasters and archers, creating a unified force.”


3. Regional Defense and Leadership Collaboration


Agatha assured Eryndor that Salara’s defense remained a priority and emphasized the need for close coordination. Salara would now act as both a military command center and a key defensive city for the empire.


• “You and your men will be defending the central trade routes. Your leadership will work directly with other regional commanders to organize defense rotations and, if need be, prepare for larger campaigns. We value your counsel, and in many cases, you’ll have an advisory role directly to Marcus.”


4. Enhanced Weaponry and Supply Lines


Espada would supply Salara’s military with improved weapons, armor, and equipment from its vast resources. Agatha assured Eryndor that his soldiers would receive the best Espada had to offer, from enhanced crossbows and steel-forged armor to better provisions and rations for sustained campaigns.


• “Marcus is committed to equipping your men not as soldiers, but as champions of Salara within the empire. There will be no shortage in support—armor, supplies, and weapons will reach you regularly through Espada’s fortified supply lines.”


5. Building Espadian Loyalty


Finally, she emphasized that loyalty to Espada did not mean abandoning loyalty to Salara; rather, it was an expansion of it. Agatha suggested a series of recognition ceremonies to honor Salara’s soldiers for their bravery and dedication, showing that Espada respected and valued their service.


• “We’re not erasing their legacy; we’re enhancing it. Marcus would like to honor your soldiers in Salara’s Grand Plaza, with the people as witnesses. We’ll present new banners and uniforms that mark them as heroes of Salara and Espada alike.”

Eryndor’s initial reservations eased as he saw the thoughtfulness in Agatha’s approach. “Lady Agatha, you’ve honored our ways. It is clear Marcus values more than territory; he values the spirit of those who serve him. I believe my men can stand behind this vision, knowing they’re not lost within it.”

With mutual respect, they finalized the steps. Eryndor agreed to commence the first round of training exercises within a week and to prepare his officers for strategic sessions with Espadian commanders. They would forge a strong bond between Salara’s loyal defenders and the Espadian forces, creating a seamless military unit bound by purpose and pride.

In the end, as Agatha left the barracks, she felt confident that Salara’s army would flourish under Marcus’ empire, with Eryndor as a leader who would champion the balance of loyalty to Salara and dedication to Espada.

 

[The Night Court]

Agatha returned to the Palace of Winds to meet with King Taerion, carrying a detailed summary of her meetings with Salara’s key leaders. As she entered the grand chamber, she observed the King seated with several of his advisors, their expressions a mixture of curiosity and resolve. The weight of the kingdom’s integration into Espada rested heavily on their shoulders, and Agatha understood that clear communication was essential to maintaining trust and progress.

“Your Majesty,” Agatha began, her tone calm yet authoritative, “I’ve met with Commander Eryndor, Master Lorrin of Coin, and the heads of your builders and infrastructure teams. Together, we’ve outlined the steps necessary for Salara’s seamless integration into Espada’s empire. Allow me to provide you with an update and discuss the next steps.”

King Taerion gestured for her to proceed, leaning forward attentively. “Speak, Lady Agatha. Your efficiency is impressive, and I’m eager to hear how these plans are shaping up.”

Summary of Meetings

1. Military Integration


Agatha began with her discussion with Commander Eryndor.


• “The Commander and I have developed a framework that allows Salara’s forces to retain their identity while aligning with Espada’s greater military structure. Units will retain their names, leadership, and local pride, but they will also gain Espadian titles and training. Additionally, new weaponry and supplies will arrive regularly to enhance their capabilities.”


She paused briefly before continuing.


• “Commander Eryndor is fully on board with these changes and will begin joint training exercises within the week. This ensures your army remains a formidable force while integrating seamlessly into our empire.”


2. Economic Reformation


She shifted her focus to the financial aspect.


• “Master Lorrin and I discussed the economic benefits and challenges of this transition. Espada’s investment in Salara will be substantial. Our initial focus is on fortifying trade routes, introducing standardized taxation that aligns with Espadian practices, and ensuring a steady flow of resources to maintain infrastructure upgrades. These changes will strengthen Salara as the empire’s central trade hub.”


She handed the King a ledger containing proposed budgets and economic projections. “Master Lorrin was diligent in ensuring that the numbers work in favor of both the kingdom and the empire.”


3. Infrastructure Plans


Agatha moved on to the builders.


• “I’ve spoken to your master builders about the infrastructure improvements required to transform Salara into a true jewel of the empire. We’ll focus on enhancing your city walls, building more durable trade roads, and expanding the port to accommodate greater traffic. In addition, Espada will finance a new citadel that reflects your city’s significance within the empire.”


She gestured toward a set of blueprints provided by the builders, displaying the planned upgrades.

Agatha turned her full attention to the King, meeting his gaze with unwavering resolve. “With these initial plans in motion, I’d like to propose the following steps for further integration and stability:”


1. Public Engagement and Trust Building


• “Your people need to feel the benefits of this transition quickly. I suggest hosting public forums where the citizens can learn about the upcoming changes and ask questions. Espadian representatives, alongside your own trusted advisors, will address concerns and show solidarity.”


2. Infrastructure Timelines


• “We must prioritize defense and trade upgrades. I recommend that construction on the expanded city walls and trade roads begin within the month. This demonstrates immediate action while securing Salara’s position as the empire’s core trade hub.”


3. Espadian Delegates in Salara


• “To ensure seamless collaboration, we propose embedding a small council of Espadian delegates in Salara to work alongside your advisors. Their role will be to support your kingdom, not to overrule it, Your Majesty.”


4. Integration Ceremonies


• “To mark this historic moment, we suggest hosting a grand integration ceremony in the coming months. This will not only solidify Salara’s new role but also serve as a celebration of our shared vision.”

“Your Majesty,” Agatha concluded, her tone softening slightly, “these plans honor both your kingdom’s legacy and Marcus’ vision for a unified empire. Together, we can create a Salara that thrives at the heart of Espada’s growing strength. With your continued support, this integration will set a standard for all others to follow.”

King Taerion leaned back thoughtfully, his advisors murmuring quietly among themselves. He glanced at Agatha, his expression one of measured approval. “Lady Agatha, you’ve exceeded my expectations once again. These plans reflect not just ambition but respect for my kingdom’s traditions and strengths. Let us discuss any further adjustments before we proceed.”

 

[The Night Court]

Agatha maintained her composed demeanor as she addressed King Taerion and his advisors’ lingering concerns. She understood that their input was critical to ensuring a smooth integration. Turning to the King first, she inclined her head respectfully.

“Your Majesty, I am here to answer any questions and make any necessary adjustments to ensure this plan aligns with your kingdom’s values and priorities. Let us begin with what weighs heaviest on your mind.”

The King spoke first, his voice calm yet firm. “One concern I have, Lady Agatha, is the preservation of Salara’s cultural identity. Our festivals, traditions, and local governance have been the bedrock of our people’s pride. How do you propose we ensure these are not lost within the Espadian framework?”

Agatha nodded, anticipating this concern. “Your Majesty, Salara’s culture will not only be preserved but celebrated. Espada values diversity across its territories and views cultural identity as a strength. Your festivals will continue as they always have, and in fact, Espada will provide additional resources to enhance these events and ensure their longevity. Furthermore, local governance will remain in place, with your trusted council maintaining oversight on domestic affairs.”

Master Lorrin, the Master of Coin, interjected next. “The economic changes you propose are promising, but transitions of this scale often strain local economies. Can we ensure that the implementation is gradual enough to avoid unrest among merchants and citizens?”

Agatha replied with confidence. “Master Lorrin, you raise a valid point. While the Espadian taxation system will bring uniformity, we will implement it gradually over the next year. During this transition, Espada will subsidize any shortfalls to prevent economic strain. Additionally, merchants will receive training and resources to adapt to new trade practices, ensuring they remain profitable during this period of change.”

Commander Eryndor raised his concern next. “Lady Agatha, while I see the benefits of aligning our forces with Espada’s military structure, I worry about losing autonomy. Salara’s army has always answered to the King first. Will that remain true?”

Agatha’s response was firm yet reassuring. “Commander, your loyalty to your King is admirable, and I can assure you that Salara’s army will remain under the King’s command for all domestic matters. However, during empire-wide campaigns, all forces will unite under Marcus’ banner for the greater good. This balance ensures both your autonomy and our collective strength.”

She paused and let her words settle before continuing. “If there are additional adjustments you feel would strengthen these plans, I am open to hearing them. The ultimate goal is not just integration but the flourishing of Salara within Espada’s empire.”

Agatha’s calm but authoritative tone reassured the room. She had anticipated their concerns and addressed them thoroughly, demonstrating her skill as a negotiator and her genuine investment in Salara’s success. Now, she awaited their final thoughts, confident that they were nearing the end of this phase of discussions.

 

[Kingdom Of Espada]

King Taerion leaned back in his chair, his gaze thoughtful as he exchanged glances with his advisors. The room, heavy with the weight of their deliberations, grew quiet before the King spoke.

“Lady Agatha, you have addressed each of our concerns with clarity and resolve. Your assurances of cultural preservation, economic stability, and military balance demonstrate not just your wisdom but Espada’s genuine commitment to Salara’s prosperity. I believe we can move forward with this integration plan.”

The Master of Coin nodded, his earlier skepticism replaced with measured optimism. “The proposed economic strategy is sound. With the gradual timeline and Espadian subsidies, I am confident our merchants and citizens can adapt without undue hardship.”

Commander Eryndor added, “The assurance of our army’s autonomy in domestic matters is vital. With that preserved, I see no reason to oppose this alliance. Lady Agatha, you have my support as well.”

The King stood, his presence commanding as he addressed both Agatha and his advisors. “Let it be known that Salara shall join Espada’s empire—not as a subjugated territory, but as a vital part of this grand vision. Together, we will strengthen Salara’s position as a center of trade, culture, and defense within this growing empire.”

Turning to Agatha, the King offered a hand. “Lady Agatha, I entrust you with overseeing the first steps of this transition. Let us begin the work of ensuring Salara’s integration is seamless and prosperous.”

Agatha accepted the gesture with a slight bow of her head, her expression composed yet determined. “Your Majesty, your trust will not be misplaced. Together, we will make Salara a cornerstone of Espada’s empire.”

With the King’s blessing, integration officially commenced. Agatha and her team worked tirelessly alongside Salara’s leaders to implement the plans they had laid out. The markets were gradually adjusted to Espadian trade standards, cultural festivals received new funding to showcase Salara’s unique identity, and the first wave of military training under Espadian officers began with respect for Salara’s traditions.

As the builders broke ground on new infrastructure projects, from fortified walls to expanded trade routes, Salara’s transformation into a beacon of Espadian strength and unity began to take shape. Agatha oversaw every detail with precision, ensuring that the promises made in the palace were fulfilled.

The people of Salara, initially wary of this new chapter, began to see the benefits as their city flourished under Espadian guidance. The integration was not without its challenges, but with Agatha’s leadership and the King’s cooperation, Salara was poised to become the jewel of the empire—a shining testament to what could be achieved through unity and vision.

 

[The Night Court]

As the sun began to set over the bustling city of Salara, Agatha met with one of the Red Mages assigned to oversee the integration and growth of the city under Espada’s banner. The mage, clad in crimson robes adorned with intricate silver embroidery, knelt before her in respect.

“Aron,” Agatha began, her tone firm yet composed, “you have been chosen to remain here not just for your skills in magic but for your ability to lead and observe. Your task is critical. Oversee the progress of Salara’s integration. Ensure the infrastructure projects remain on schedule, the economic plans stay on track, and that Commander Eryndor and his forces are fully prepared to work alongside our troops.”

Aron rose, his face set with determination. “I will not fail you, Lady Agatha. I will report any updates promptly and ensure Espada’s vision for Salara is realized.”

“Good,” she replied. “Remember, your role is not just to monitor but to inspire. The people here must see Espada’s presence as a partnership, not an occupation. Be their guide, their protector, and their advocate. Use your magic wisely, and keep the lines of communication open with me at all times.”

Aron bowed deeply, and Agatha placed a hand on his shoulder briefly before stepping back. “I will leave a portion of our forces here to ensure stability and assist with training Salara’s army. They will also provide protection should any external threats arise. Work with them, but remember, you are the eyes and ears of Espada in this city. I trust you.”

With her instructions given, Agatha made her way to the palace gates. She bid farewell to King Taerion, his advisors, and Commander Eryndor, each parting words laced with mutual respect and gratitude. As she mounted her steed, she cast one last look at the city of Salara, now a shining new piece of Marcus’s empire.

Before departing, Agatha closed her eyes and reached out telepathically to Marcus.

“Marcus, it is done. Salara is fully under Espada’s banner. King Taerion and his people are cooperative, and the integration is moving forward as planned. I’ve stationed Aron, one of our most capable Red Mages, to oversee the city’s progress and maintain order. A portion of our forces will remain to ensure security and assist in training. I ride now to return to our main camp and prepare for the next phase. Salara is ours.”





Marcus’s reply came swiftly, his commanding voice laced with approval. “You have done well, Agatha. Salara will serve as the cornerstone for Espada’s trade and influence. Prepare for the next campaign. Our work is far from over, but this victory is a testament to your leadership.”





With her mission in Salara complete, Agatha spurred her horse forward, leading her escort away from the city. The banners of Espada fluttered proudly in the evening breeze, marking the beginning of a prosperous new chapter for Salara and the empire it now called home.

 

[Marcus Aumont]

Marcus sat in his command tent, surrounded by maps and reports from across his growing empire. Each parchment told the story of a kingdom brought under Espada’s banner, a steady march toward the ultimate vision he had been carefully crafting. Salara was the latest jewel in his crown, and as Agatha’s telepathic report reached him, a rare smile graced his lips.

“Another kingdom falls into place,” Marcus murmured, his tone filled with quiet triumph. “We are no longer a fragmented force or a collection of conquests. This is an empire now, one that will shape the future.”

He rose and stepped outside the tent, where his officers awaited his next orders.

“Salara has been integrated successfully,” he announced, his deep, commanding voice cutting through the night. “King Taerion has seen the vision of Espada, and his kingdom is now ours, not through war but through understanding. Let this be a testament to the balance of strength and diplomacy that will define our empire.”

The officers bowed in acknowledgment, and Marcus turned his gaze southward. His crimson eyes seemed to pierce through the horizon, envisioning the steps ahead.

“The kingdoms that remain will join us, one way or another,” Marcus continued. “We will give them the choice: peace and prosperity within our empire or the cold hand of inevitability. Once the lands to the east and south are secured, our attention will turn to Ali. The Ashirra must be united under one banner—our banner. Only then will Espada be ready to face the hobgoblins to the south.”

Marcus paced as he spoke, his mind already forming strategies. “The Ashirra have stood divided for too long, and their fractured state has made them weak. When we take back Ali, it will not be a conquest of annihilation but one of restoration. The Night Court and Espada will offer them strength and purpose. Together, we will forge a force strong enough to face any threat.”

Pausing, he looked toward his gathered commanders. “Spread the word among our ranks. Let them know what they fight for. The unification of these lands is not just for Espada but for the survival and prosperity of all. Prepare for the next campaign. Rest where you can, for the path forward will not be easy.”

Marcus stepped back into his tent, his thoughts momentarily drifting to the hobgoblins to the south. They were a savage and relentless force, but he would not allow them to threaten what he had built. When the time came, his united empire would stand as an unbreakable wall against them.

For now, his focus was on the next steps: bringing more kingdoms into the fold and ensuring that the growing empire of Espada stood as a beacon of strength, unity, and inevitability. The pieces were falling into place, and Marcus, as ever, was ready to guide his vision to fruition.