Chapter 14

Ethan sat at his desk, papers scattered in front of him. The weight of his decisions had begun to settle in, and despite the flurry of activity that followed the conference, there was still much to be done. The ministers had taken their respective tasks, and the initial plans were set into motion. Now, the long process of executing those plans was about to begin.Veldoria's future was on the line.A knock at the door interrupted his thoughts. Viktor, his ever-present bodyguard, entered, carrying a folder."Your Majesty," Viktor said, his voice as composed as always. "Minister Aldric has sent over the final drafts for the trade agreements. He'd like your approval before they're sent out."Ethan nodded, grateful for the assistance. He opened the folder, scanning the details of the proposed new agreements with larger nations. This was the pivotal moment—the first step toward freeing Veldoria from the dependency on smaller, unreliable countries. These new deals would bring in the revenue they desperately needed.After a few minutes of reading, Ethan placed the folder down and looked up at Viktor. "Send them out. We need to secure these agreements quickly."Viktor gave a curt nod and turned to leave, but Ethan stopped him. "Viktor, is everything in place for the military modernization plan?"Viktor paused, glancing back. "Yes, Your Majesty. The military team is already negotiating with suppliers for new aircraft and armored vehicles. General Vorn has started drafting plans for the local factories, and engineers are being recruited as we speak."Ethan felt a surge of relief. "Good. Make sure the plans move forward without delay. I want those factories built as soon as possible.""Understood."As Viktor left the room, Ethan leaned back in his chair, rubbing his temples. The pressure was mounting, but he couldn't afford to falter now. The changes they were implementing were critical—not just for the kingdom's prosperity, but for its very survival.His thoughts drifted to the future—Veldoria's future. He had to ensure that the kingdom's growth was sustainable. Oil was just the beginning. A self-sufficient military and a thriving economy were the foundation, but there was more. Veldoria needed to become a technological powerhouse, and he would make that happen.---The next few days were a blur of meetings, documents, and negotiations. Ethan rarely left the palace, though he made time for brief walks in the garden, finding solace in the quiet surroundings. The decision to modernize the military and pursue space capabilities weighed heavily on him, but there was no turning back now. He had committed Veldoria to a new path, and it was one that would either make or break them.It wasn't long before Viktor returned with news of an opportunity. "Your Majesty, I've received a communication from the Solara Republic. They're willing to begin talks regarding the satellite program. The representatives will be arriving tomorrow."Ethan's eyes lit up. "Good. Let's make sure we show them that we're serious. We need this technology to move forward, and if they're willing to help us, we'll make it worth their while."Viktor bowed slightly. "I'll have the meeting room prepared."---The next day, Ethan and his ministers sat in the grand meeting room, awaiting the arrival of the Solara Republic's representatives. The room was filled with a sense of anticipation as everyone took their seats. Ethan knew that this meeting could set the tone for future partnerships, and he was determined to make a strong impression.The door opened, and two representatives entered—a man and a woman, both dressed in the formal attire of the Solara Republic. Their faces were impassive, but Ethan could see the sharpness in their eyes. They were not here to be impressed; they were here to do business."Your Majesty," the man began, bowing slightly. "We thank you for the opportunity to meet with you. I am Ambassador Rael, and this is my colleague, Minister Kalina."Ethan rose from his seat and extended his hand. "Ambassador Rael, Minister Kalina, it's a pleasure to meet you. I hope the journey was comfortable."Rael shook Ethan's hand firmly. "We've had a smooth journey, Your Majesty. The Solara Republic is eager to discuss how we can assist Veldoria in achieving its goals, particularly in the realm of communications and technology."Ethan gestured for them to sit. "I believe we are at a crucial juncture, one that will define our future. Veldoria has made great strides in strengthening our economy and military, but we need to modernize our communications, especially in the realm of satellite technology. I'm sure you can appreciate the importance of secure and reliable systems."Minister Kalina nodded. "Indeed, Your Majesty. Satellite technology is critical to any nation's growth in this day and age. We would be happy to assist Veldoria in launching its first satellite. Our team has extensive experience in this area, and we can offer both technical support and launch services."Ethan leaned forward, his gaze steady. "We are not looking for a one-time service. What I propose is a long-term partnership. We want to build our own space agency, and with your guidance, we could establish Veldoria as a leading force in space technology."Rael and Kalina exchanged a glance. Kalina was the first to speak. "A bold vision, Your Majesty. We're certainly open to discussing this further. But such an endeavor requires significant investment, both financially and in terms of resources. We would need to evaluate the feasibility of such a project.""We are prepared to make that investment," Ethan replied, his voice firm. "Veldoria's future depends on it. This is not just about securing communications—it's about positioning ourselves as a technological powerhouse."The conversation continued for hours, with each side presenting their expectations, concerns, and potential benefits. By the end of the meeting, a preliminary agreement had been made. The Solara Republic would help launch Veldoria's first satellite, and in return, Veldoria would provide funding for joint research and future space endeavors.