Mathew, accompanied by an interpreter from the foreign affairs office, walked through the palace corridors, led by an official assigned to escort them. Their footsteps echoed against the polished marble floors as they approached the grand doors of the chamber where Ali Pasha would receive them. Upon their arrival, one of the guards stationed at the entrance stepped inside to announce Mathew's presence.
After a brief moment, permission was granted, and the large wooden doors were swung open by the guards. Mathew and the interpreter entered the chamber, their eyes immediately drawn to the imposing figure of Ali Pasha, who sat on an ornate throne at the far end of the expansive room. His advisors and bureaucrats stood on either side of him in two parallel lines, silently awaiting the proceedings.
Flanking the Pasha were two guards armed with swords, while additional sentinels positioned throughout the hall held long spears, their presence a constant reminder of the authority vested in the man before them. Mathew advanced toward Ali Pasha with measured steps, stopping a respectful distance away before offering a formal bow.
"Your Excellency," he began, his tone composed and diplomatic, "I have been sent by the Pendralis government to discuss our trade relations and to explore economic opportunities that would be of great benefit to both our nations."
Ali Pasha already suspected that the envoy had come to address the recent export restrictions placed on the sale of Nefaran cotton to Pendralis. His expression remained impassive as he responded, "I am listening."
Mathew continued, "As you know, Pendralis imports vast quantities of cotton from Nefara. However, the recent restrictions imposed on cotton exports have severely impacted our textile industry. Many of our manufacturers are facing considerable difficulties due to these limitations."
Ali Pasha's gaze remained steady. "The amount of cotton your country has been importing from Nefara has increased exponentially in recent years. As a result, domestic prices have surged, making it increasingly difficult for the Nefaran people to afford clothing. These restrictions were imposed to protect our domestic market. If you have come to request their removal, I must tell you now that it is not possible."
Mathew, unfazed, offered a knowing smile. "Your Excellency, we understand the burden that cotton exports have placed on your domestic economy. That is precisely why I have not come merely to request the lifting of restrictions—I have come with a proposal that would serve the interests of both our nations."
Ali Pasha raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the envoy's unexpected approach. Mathew pressed on.
"The Pendralis government is prepared to invest in the expansion of Nefaran agriculture. We propose the construction of irrigation canals to improve the arability of your farmland and the sale of advanced agricultural tools and machinery to increase productivity. In addition, we are willing to offer a guaranteed purchase agreement for the cotton produced. This way, Nefara can increase its agricultural output without disrupting the domestic market, while Pendralis secures a steady supply of raw cotton for its textile industry."
A brief silence followed as Ali Pasha absorbed Mathew's words. He had expected a simple negotiation over trade restrictions, not a comprehensive economic agreement. After a moment, he responded cautiously, "I will admit, your proposal is enticing. However, the construction of irrigation canals and the purchase of agricultural equipment would place a heavy financial burden on Nefara. As promising as it may sound, I do not see how it would be feasible for us to implement."
Mathew's smile widened slightly. "Your Excellency, the Pendralis government is prepared to offer low-interest loans from our banks to finance these agricultural projects. The funds will be allocated specifically for irrigation and agricultural development, ensuring that the investment directly benefits Nefara's agricultural sector."
Another silence filled the room. The weight of the proposal settled over the gathered officials. Finally, Ali Pasha broke the stillness.
"A low-interest loan dedicated to agricultural expansion, combined with a guaranteed market for our cotton… This is indeed a compelling arrangement."
He leaned back in his throne, contemplating the implications. With Pendralis funding the infrastructure and tools necessary for increased production, Nefara would bear no financial burden. Moreover, with greater control over the cotton supply, he could dictate pricing, ensuring that Nefara's profits remained high. Pendralis, desperate for cotton, would continue to buy whatever surplus Nefara produced, as long as prices did not rise to excessive levels.
Ali Pasha had also heard of Pendralis' military strength in its war against Aragon and had personally issued orders to improve Nefara's own firearms manufacturing in response. However, Nefara's arsenal still primarily consisted of arquebuses and short-range medieval-style artillery, which, despite attempts at modernization, remained technologically inferior to Pendralis' advanced weaponry. Unlike Pendralis, Nefara lacked the industrial foundation necessary for large-scale production, as it had no steel industry or steam-powered machinery to enable true mass manufacturing. While incremental improvements could be made, the absence of these key sectors meant that any advancements in firearms production would be slow and limited. Still, Nefara was far from Pendralis' immediate reach, and though Ali Pasha ruled with near-autonomy, the region was still nominally part of the Usman Empire. Should Pendralis ever consider military intervention, they would risk war with the empire itself. No, an invasion seemed unlikely. And if Nefara's agricultural output increased, the wealth generated from exporting cotton at higher prices could be substantial.
After a moment of consideration, he nodded. "I accept your proposal. Once we have determined the specifics of the loan terms, the types and quantities of agricultural equipment, and the precise conditions of the agreement, we can proceed with a formal treaty."
Mathew gave a respectful nod. He knew exactly what Ali Pasha was thinking. The Pasha believed that this deal would give him leverage over Pendralis, but Mathew was aware that the upper echelons of his government were already making preparations. Ensuring the short-term supply of cotton was his immediate goal, but securing long-term control over Nefara was a matter of strategic necessity. Leaving such a crucial resource in Ali Pasha's hands was simply not an option.
With the initial agreement reached, Mathew and his interpreter took their leave. Over the next two weeks, Mathew, along with the officials accompanying him, worked closely with Ali Pasha's bureaucrats to finalize the terms of the deal. During this time, Mathew also continued to observe Nefara's political, economic, and social landscape, gathering crucial intelligence.
At the end of the negotiations, the finalized agreement was presented to Ali Pasha for review. After carefully examining the terms, he affixed his signature, officially binding both nations to the deal. With the agreement secured, Mathew prepared to return to Pendralis, departing from Nefara aboard a ship bound west across the White Sea.