It had been a long few weeks since deposing his distant relation, and taking up the Throne of Heltania. And already there was much that needed his attention. Lukas sighed as he read what little available information on the Dwarven Confederacy could be gathered on short notice. What he read, he did not like.
Sending out orders to have the Dwarven Trade-General escorted to the palace of Heltania, Lukas waited patiently for the arrival gathering up his wits and his charm in order to prevent Dwarven influence, and dwarven anger in equal parts.
"Ah, you honor my humble city-state with your presence, Trade-General Grinhafen. Truly there can be no greater honor than to host a dwarf of such caliber. You flatter me with your generous offer.
But alas, I must be the bearer of perhaps the worst news. Heltania is not a sound commercial investment at this time. Surely you have heard of our recent bandit troubles. And my scouts inform me that the Horse Tribes are mustering, perhaps to raid my land whilst we transition leadership. This cannot be the finest time to invest in my nation. I would like you to see that Heltanian soldiers can safeguard the commercial interests of the Dwarves prior to any agreement being signed.
In the meantime your people are more than welcome in my lands, and I would welcome you to join me for a fine banquet." Lukas smiled and acted polite but behind his smile his mind was whirring. Was it too much? Too little? Too promising? So many questions. That dwarf would open ports with axes and blood, was that his full objective.
Sooth and flatter the Dwarven trade-general. Agree to nothing. Insinuate that the time is not right for any deals between the Blackwater Coast and the Dwarven Confederacy, but that such a thing will be revisited as soon as the lands become safer.
In addition, immediately begin the training of the Talrius City Guard. Militia-> Basic.----
In addition a messenger is dispatched to bear a message to Ulric Karzaller
To the Dwarven Free Company, the Thunderbarrels.
Your offer intrigues me. As soon as I have met with the Trade-General to our mutual satisfaction, I would enjoy meeting with you to speak more about the expansion of my army, via your hire.
Should my negotiations take some time, I invite you to make yourselves at home in Heltania.