You explain that you do not want to make allies at the cost of making new enemies, but exchange of goods would be welcome. The two discuss this, the envoy sighs, and instructs his translator.
"My master is sad to hear that you do not wish to embrace the loving embrace of Gubta Empire, as a simple trade agreement might not appease the Emperor, blessed be his hallowed name, but my master shall convey your message back to our homeland." Another pause for them to talk.
"My master also says that because the route to your Kingdom is known, he might return with reply from our Emperor, blessed be his hallowed name, in a year or two." The two bow and depart.
828 AD, End of the Year
The advisor arrives with his scrolls, like always.
Happiness: 3
Population: 5
Economy: 4
Army: 6
829 AD, Spring
The spies from the south report that one of the factions in Lametanian Civil War has been bled dry and destroyed after series of military defeats. The country is now split north-south in terms of territories between the remaining two factions.
829 AD, Mid-Spring
A strange plague seems to be afflicting the peoples in the north-west of your Kingdom! Apparently it causes irresistible desire to sleep and be apathetic, to the point that some less-willed fall asleep and never wake up, till their bodies give up from thirst and starvation!
There is something very strange, very malicious, and quite possibly magical at works...
A) Hire a band of level 20+ adventurers to find out and deal with the cause of this plague!
B) Send forth agents to find a wizard that can help cure this plague!
C) Order the royal alchemists, priests and healers to find a cure for this strange affliction.
D) Ask your dear elven wife about this, as she came from north-west as well.