Building a Modern Nation in a Fantasy World-Chapter 71: Letter Exchange
Gradually, the bursts of fireworks began to diminish, slowing their dazzling display until finally fading into the tranquil night sky. The crowd stood still, their faces tilted upward, awaiting another burst of color that never came. A murmur of confusion rippled through the spectators as they realized the breathtaking show had reached its conclusion.
Some in the audience sighed softly, disappointment flickering across their expressions at the end of such a mesmerizing performance. Others remained motionless, still captivated, eyes sparkling with lingering amazement at the spectacular display of colors and lights that had graced the sky above.
Quiet conversations drifted through the crowd as people shared their favorite moments of the fireworks display, their voices soft and filled with admiration. Smiles were exchanged, recounting bursts of color that had made the night unforgettable.
Arthur rose from his spot, clearing his throat gently but audibly enough to catch the attention of those nearby. Seeing eyes turn toward him, he raised his voice, projecting it clearly into the night.
"My people," Arthur began warmly, drawing more curious glances and soft shushes rippling through the crowd, "this marks the end of the Accession Day festival. Tonight’s fireworks symbolize not just the beauty of our present but the promise of our future. Just as I’ve sought to bring change and improvement to our beloved Keldoria, let these dazzling lights be a testament to our ambition for greatness."
Pausing briefly, he let the words settle over the attentive crowd. "Together, regardless of our backgrounds, whether high-born or humble origin, we will continue to build a brighter, stronger kingdom. Let tonight be a reminder that every one of you has a role in shaping the future of Keldoria. I look forward to seeing the greatness we will achieve—together."
Cheers and applause can be heard from the gathered crowd, resonating into the night sky. Those standing further away, eager to catch every word, moved closer, craning their necks and gently nudging forward to hear Arthur clearly.
Seeing the increased interest, Arthur continued with a confident smile, "This magnificent firework festival shall become a cherished tradition, celebrated each and every Accession Day. Let it serve as an annual reminder of our shared progress and prosperity. As long as our kingdom thrives and flourishes, we will meet here again. Until then, strive onward and upward, and may the unity and spirit you showed tonight guide us forward to an even brighter future."
The crowd erupted in enthusiastic cheers once more, their voices echoing joyfully through the night, filled with hope and anticipation for the promising days ahead. Many were happy knowing they would see the fireworks again next year, while others took comfort in the idea that the kingdom would continue to grow stronger.
As Arthur stepped away from the gathering, Klein, Alice, and Aaron followed closely behind. Though the fireworks had ended, the festival grounds still buzzed with life. Groups of friends and families chatted excitedly about their favorite moments of the night. Some began packing up their belongings, still laughing and talking as they prepared to head home. Others wandered over to the food stalls, drawn by the tempting smells of roasted meats and sweet treats.
The air was filled with warmth and a lingering sense of wonder as the people of Keldoria carried the memory of the night’s beauty with them, already looking forward to next year’s celebration
.…
As Arthur returned to his chamber, he quickly changed out of his clothes and slipped into something more comfortable. While carefully folding and putting away the festival garments, an envelope, sealed with the emblem of the Chronos Kingdom, slipped from the folds of the cloth and fell to the floor.
Arthur noticed that the envelope was from Brandon Rivas, which Klein had handed to him during the festival. He picked it up and placed it carefully on his desk before finishing with his clothes. Once everything was neatly put away, he sat down at the study desk, broke the seal, and unfolded the letter inside.
To Arthur Jr, Ruler of Keldoria,
I extend my sincere appreciation for your invitation to meet in person and discuss the matters you have raised. While I acknowledge the importance of these topics, I must respectfully decline your request for a personal audience at this time. The nature of the current discussions does not warrant my immediate presence in Keldoria, and I trust you understand the demands that govern a sovereign’s schedule.
However, I remain committed to maintaining our amicable relations and fostering open dialogue between our two kingdoms. To that end, I will send a trusted ambassador to Keldoria in my stead. He is well-versed in the intricacies of these matters and fully authorized to speak on my behalf. I trust that this arrangement will ensure our interests are represented with the care and attention they deserve.
May this be the beginning of a stronger bond between Chronos and Keldoria.
With respect,
Brandon Rivas, King of the Chronos Kingdom
The letter was written in elegant, precise handwriting that spoke of practiced diplomacy and careful control. Brandon Rivas had declined Arthur’s invitation to meet in person, explaining that the matter did not warrant his immediate presence in Keldoria. However, he assured Arthur that he would send a trusted ambassador—someone fully empowered to speak on his behalf.
Though the letter was impeccably polite, its tone left no doubt that Brandon Rivas held the upper hand. His refusal carried the measured confidence of a ruler who understood his authority, and his promise to send an envoy felt more like a favor than a duty. As Arthur read on, he could sense that while his invitation had been acknowledged with due respect, the final decision and the pace of any future discussions would remain firmly under Brandon Rivas’s control.
Arthur then realized his mistake. Back on Earth, it was common for leaders and diplomats to meet face-to-face to discuss agreements. Travel between countries was fast and safe, so he had naturally assumed that extending such an invitation was the best course of action. But in this medieval time, where travel by sea or land could take weeks and carried its own dangers, it was rare—almost unheard of—for rulers of different countries to meet in person unless the matter was truly urgent or carried grave consequences. Instead, it was customary to send trusted envoys to represent their interests, a practice born of necessity and centuries-old tradition.
He felt a flush of embarrassment creep up his neck. ’How foolish and arrogant of me,’ Arthur thought to himself. ’To think I could demand the king of Chronos himself to come here… I should have realized that in this world, rulers would rarely meet face-to-face, and that sending such a letter was both presumptuous and naïve.’
Determined to make amends and set things right, Arthur pulled a fresh piece of parchment from his desk and dipped his pen into the ink. He took a deep breath, carefully crafting a new message—one that acknowledged his earlier misstep and showed proper respect for the traditions of this world.
With a steady hand, Arthur began to write:
To Brandon Rivas, King of the Chronos Kingdom,
I humbly thank you for your response to my previous letter. Upon reflection, I realize that my request was unreasonable. Please accept my apologies for any inconvenience or misunderstanding caused by my invitation.
I deeply respect your decision to send an ambassador in your stead, and I look forward to engaging in meaningful dialogue with your envoy. I trust that together we can discuss these matters thoroughly and work toward our shared interests and a lasting friendship between our two kingdoms.
May the envoy find safe travel to our lands, and may this be the beginning of a new relationship between Keldoria and the Chronos Kingdom.
With sincere respect,
Arthur Tesla, Ruler of Keldoria
Arthur set down his pen and read the letter over once more, carefully checking each word to ensure it conveyed both humility and a wish to strengthen ties with the Chronos Kingdom. He wanted no misunderstanding this time—no echo of his earlier mistake. Once he was satisfied, he folded the parchment neatly and pressed the Keldoria crest into the warm wax to seal it. Placing the letter aside, he leaned back in his chair, letting out a slow breath.
He glanced around his chamber, the soft flicker of candlelight reflecting off the polished wood of his desk and the simple but sturdy furnishings around him. For a moment, he allowed himself to relax.
Arthur estimated that it would take two to three weeks for Brandon Rivas to receive his letter and dispatch the promised envoy. In the meantime, he resolved to continue introducing new innovations to transform the kingdom’s image—shifting perceptions of Keldoria from a weak, financially struggling land to one known for progress and innovation.
More importantly, with the newly acquired linotype and printing press, Arthur planned to begin publishing books on reading, writing, trade, business, and other practical subjects. By making these books as affordable and accessible as possible, he hoped to boost literacy rates and ignite a spirit of curiosity and learning across the kingdom.
