I Reincarnated as a Prince Who Revolutionized the Kingdom-Chapter 78: Slowly Planting Influence

January 25, 1695.

The Elysean Trade Delegation had spent five days settling into their new compound near the Carthaginian docks. Merchants unloaded crates of fine Elysean textiles, firearms, and steel goods, while soldiers remained stationed to ensure order. The Tunisian authorities had allowed their presence, but tensions remained.

Now, it was time for the official negotiations to begin.

Inside the Tunisian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The meeting was set within the Palace of the Grand Vizier, a lavish structure in the heart of Carthage. Intricate mosaics, golden chandeliers, and ornate calligraphy adorned the walls, a testament to Tunisian wealth and culture.

Seated in the central chamber was Minister Charles Dufort, Elysea’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. Opposite him sat Grand Vizier Suleiman al-Mutazz, the Sultan’s chief foreign advisor. The vizier was a man in his late fifties, his beard neatly groomed, his sharp eyes watching Dufort carefully.

Between them was a low wooden table, set with silver pitchers of rose water, bowls of dates and figs, and a carefully arranged map of the Mediterranean.

Dufort took a sip of water before speaking. "Your Excellency, I thank you for granting us this audience. The Kingdom of Elysea wishes to establish a lasting and prosperous trade relationship with the Empire of Tunis."

The vizier leaned back in his cushioned chair. "Elysea is ambitious. That much is clear. A year ago, your kingdom barely had a presence in the Mediterranean. Now you arrive with merchants, soldiers, and warships. Your king does not move without purpose."

Dufort smiled diplomatically. "King Bruno believes in strength through commerce. Our presence here is not an act of aggression—it is an opportunity."

Suleiman exhaled slowly. "An opportunity, you say? And what does Elysea seek in return?"

Dufort gestured to the map. "We propose a mutually beneficial trade agreement. Elysea produces manufactured goods of the highest quality—firearms, steel, textiles, and agricultural tools. Tunisian merchants would gain access to these products at exclusive rates, giving them an edge over competitors in the region."

The vizier raised an eyebrow. "And in return?"

Dufort tapped the southern portion of the map. "Elysea seeks access to gold, ivory, and spices—resources that flow through Tunisian trade routes from the interior of the Black Continent. If we can secure a direct trade link, both our nations will prosper."

The vizier stroked his beard. "That would mean bypassing some of our existing agreements with Germania and Orosk."

Dufort nodded. "Which is why Elysea is prepared to offer something no other European power has."

Suleiman’s gaze sharpened. "And what is that?"

Dufort leaned forward slightly. "Weapons."

A tense silence filled the room.

Dufort continued, his voice measured. "Your armies are large, formidable—but many of your soldiers still wield outdated weapons. Elysea produces some of the most advanced muskets and artillery in Europe. In exchange for trade rights, we are willing to supply the Sultan’s forces with a steady stream of modern firearms, giving Tunis a military advantage over its rivals."

Suleiman’s fingers tapped lightly against the table. "You seek to arm us?"

Dufort smiled. "We seek to modernize you. Your Sultan’s domain is vast, but even the mightiest empire must evolve. The balance of power is shifting, and those who fall behind in warfare… well, history does not favor them."

Suleiman’s eyes narrowed slightly. "You speak boldly, Minister Dufort. And yet, you expect us to trust that Elysea provides these weapons without ulterior motive?"

Dufort chuckled. "All trade has motive, Grand Vizier. But consider this—if Elysea wished for conquest, we would not offer tools of war, we would simply bring them. Instead, we offer a partnership—one that strengthens Tunis, rather than weakens it."

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Suleiman was silent for a long moment, his mind clearly weighing the offer.

Finally, the vizier spoke. "Your proposal is intriguing. But Tunis does not act on impulse. Before we entertain your trade terms, we require assurances."

Dufort nodded. "What sort of assurances?"

Suleiman steepled his fingers. "First, Elysea must agree not to establish military outposts on our territory. We will not allow foreign powers to set up fortifications under the guise of commerce."

Dufort inclined his head. "Agreed. Elysea seeks economic ties, not territorial claims."

Suleiman continued. "Second, if we are to accept Elysean weapons, we must have exclusive access to them within the Black Continent. We will not tolerate Elysea arming our enemies."

Dufort smiled. "Elysea has no interest in destabilizing Tunisian authority. Consider it done."

The vizier’s lips curled slightly. "Very well. In exchange, we will grant Elysean merchants access to our ports and markets, with reduced tariffs on your manufactured goods. Gold, ivory, and spices will be made available—but at fair exchange rates."

Dufort extended his hand. "Then we have an understanding?"

Suleiman studied him for a moment before clasping his hand. "We have the beginnings of one."

As Dufort exited the palace, he was greeted by General Armand Roux, who had been waiting outside with a handful of officers.

"How did it go?" Roux asked.

Dufort smirked. "Better than expected. We have their interest."

Roux nodded. "And their trust?"

Dufort exhaled. "Trust? No. But respect? Perhaps."

They began walking toward the Elysean compound. "They want exclusive access to our firearms, in exchange for lower tariffs and access to their trade routes."

Roux chuckled. "So they fear us, but they also need us."

Dufort smirked. "Precisely. And that is how Elysea takes root in Tunis."

Roux glanced toward the harbor, where Elysean ships unloaded more trade goods. "Then it begins."

Dufort nodded. "It does. But make no mistake—this is only the first step."

With the initial trade agreement secured, Elysea had successfully established itself in Carthage.

Next Steps:

Secure the Trade Agreement: Finalize written contracts ensuring favorable terms for Elysean merchants.

Increase Presence: Expand the number of merchants and introduce more Elysean goods into the Tunisian markets.

Monitor Political Shifts: Keep track of Tunisian court politics, watching for factions that support or oppose Elysean influence.

Establish a Military Exchange: Quietly integrate Elysean weapons into the Tunisian military, ensuring dependence on Elysean armaments.

Elysea had planted its flag—not through conquest, but through control.

And soon, the next move would be made.