Chapter 167: The Draft of the Agreement
Chapter 167: The Draft of the Agreement
Vincent and Velara sat across from each other at the large stone table, the heavy scroll of ores and materials now resting between them. Both were keenly aware that the next step would solidify their newfound alliance, but the details would be crucial. Vincent knew that if this was going to work, the terms had to be clear from the start.
Velara leaned forward, her fingers tracing the edges of the scroll. "You wish to acquire our ores and the knowledge of refining them. In exchange, you offer your technology-rifles, pistols, perhaps even more in time. Is that the basis of our agreement?" Her voice carried a tone that suggested she already knew the answer, but she wanted to hear Vincent say it aloud. Vincent nodded, leaning forward slightly as well. "That's correct. I'm proposing a partnership where both sides benefit. You get access to our weaponry and the techniques we've developed to produce them. In return, we'll receive your ores and the technical know-how to refine and use them."n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om
Velara's pale blue eyes fixed on him, a curious gleam in her gaze. "Rifles and pistols. And what of the machines that fly through the sky? The ones you call helicopters? Surely, if we are to share our most precious resources, we deserve more than simple firearms."
Vincent's expression remained neutral, though he had anticipated this moment. He raised his hands slightly, attempting to explain without stirring any unease. "The helicopters are... another level of technology. This agreement is meant to build trust, to test the waters between our two peoples. I need to ensure our partnership works before I can offer something as complex as an Apache."
Velara's lips pressed together as her expression shifted subtly, her earlier warmth fading just a little. "So, you withhold your flying machines, the ones that have piqued the greatest interest of my people?" Her tone grew colder, and the atmosphere in the room seemed to sharpen. "Are we dwarves not trustworthy enough for such creations? Or do you fear we will turn your own designs against you?"
The accusation hung in the air, and Vincent immediately recognized that he had touched a nerve. Velara's eyes narrowed, and her earlier friendliness was now mixed with a flash of frustration.
"It's not that, Your Majesty," Vincent countered, his voice calm but firm. "I'm not saying the dwarves are untrustworthy. The helicopter represents a far more advanced piece of equipment, with hundreds of interconnected systems-navigation, weapons, communications—all of which we've spent years perfecting. It's not something we can simply hand over. I need to be sure we're both committed to a long-term partnership first." Velara raised an eyebrow. "And what is the point of this partnership if we do not share our best with each other? I offer you our rarest ores, the secrets of our mining and refining processes, yet you withhold your most prized technology. What kind of balance is that?" Vincent could sense her frustration growing, so he leaned in slightly, choosing his words carefully. "I'm not withholding it forever. What I'm suggesting is that we work together to improve it. Your ores, like Vorithium and Gravinium, could make the Apache lighter, faster, and even more durable. Instead of just giving you the technology as it is, we could collaborate to create a version of the helicopter that's better than anything humans could build on their own."
Velara's eyes flickered with interest, though her expression remained guarded. "You propose a joint effort, then? To make something greater than what already exists?"
"Exactly," Vincent said, his voice gaining momentum. "Your mastery of metal and your ability to refine ores is unmatched. Combine that with the human expertise in advanced engineering, and we could create something the world has never seen. A helicopter that flies faster, carries more, and withstands harsher conditions than anything else."
Velara paused, her fingers tapping lightly on the scroll. She seemed to consider his words, weighing the proposal in her mind.
"And what guarantee do we have," she said slowly, "that this cooperation will lead to such innovation? You ask us to share our secrets, yet there is always the chance that once you have what you need, you no longer see the value in our alliance."
Vincent met her gaze, understanding her concern. "I'll offer a guarantee. We will create the first prototype together. The dwarves will have as much say in the design and development as we do. You'll have access to the plans, the testing, everything. This way, you can ensure the end result is as much a dwarven creation as it is a human one."
Velara's eyes softened slightly, though her expression remained serious. "You drive a hard bargain, Sir Vincent. But I see the wisdom in your words. A true partnership means we both have a hand in what we create. And if we are to build something as grand as you suggest, it will require the best of both our peoples."
Vincent nodded, feeling the weight of her agreement. "So, we move forward with rifles and pistols for now, while we begin work on refining your ores. Once we've established a foundation of trust and cooperation, we move on to bigger projects-the Apache being one of them."
Velara finally allowed a small smile to cross her lips. "Agreed. I will have my advisors draw up the terms of this contract. But know this, Sir Vincent-I do not enter into agreements lightly. If you prove your loyalty to our alliance, you will have the full backing of the dwarven kingdom. But should you break that trust..." Her eyes gleamed with a quiet intensity. "There will be consequences."
Vincent returned her smile, though he felt the unspoken warning behind her words. "Understood. I'm looking forward to what we'll achieve together."
Velara stood from her chair, extending her hand toward him. Vincent rose as well, clasping her hand firmly in agreement. "Then let us begin," she said.
Vincent nodded, knowing that this was only the beginning of something much greater. They had laid the groundwork, but the real challenge lay ahead-in proving that their partnership could truly change the future.