Konbini Ossan Volume 8 Chapter 33 — Negotiation Time
“From the moment we set foot upon this land, the outcome was decided. All I could do was fight to reduce the damage to my own people as much as possible.”
Vladgaria speaks with her head lowered, as though she has resigned herself to fate.
“This match is your victory. As promised, I shall abide by whatever conditions you impose. I shall even offer this head. But please… at the very least… spare the lives of those other than myself.”
She must have spoken with resolve prepared for death. Vladgaria bows deeply before me: not a demand, but a plea.
I shake my head.
“Unfortunately-”
“I see.”
“-we have no intention of taking anyone’s life in the first place. I do not require your head, Vladgaria-san. Therefore, I cannot accept that request.”
“What?”
She stares blankly at me. I continue.
“The purpose of this game was to demonstrate the strength of Otogi Trading Company. To show that we are not an easy opponent.
…
To prove that we possess advanced technology. And to make you understand that we are worthy of negotiation.”
“N-Negotiation…?”
At the word negotiation, a faint light of hope returns to Vladgaria’s expression.
“My request is simple. I wish to negotiate with the Demon King’s Army.”
Her face brightens slightly, though caution remains.
“Negotiate? Depending on the content, I may be forced to resist here and now, even if it means breaking my promise.”
“Rest assured. I have no intention of imposing one-sided burdens.”
I speak the words I had prepared from the beginning.
“The only thing I ask of the Demon King’s Army is this. Would you consider forming a cooperative relationship with Otogi Trading Company, for our mutual benefit?”
Perhaps because it was so unexpected, Vladgaria pauses before replying.
“Cooperate…? Do you truly mean that literally?”
“Of course. There is no hidden meaning. I genuinely wish for us to cooperate in a way that benefits us both.”
“But you are citizens of this kingdom, are you not?”
She is referring to the fact that this kingdom is at war with the Demon King’s Army.
“That presents no problem. For the sake of our own interests, there is no reason to restrict ourselves to supporting only one side.”
(E/N: Sounds like something a double-agent would say but, we know Unc isn't like that!)
By framing it as a pragmatic pursuit of profit, I give weight to my sincerity.
As intended, Vladgaria appears to accept my words to some degree.
“I see. Very well. Let us hear what you have to say.”
“Your Majesty!”
“Enough, Satira. We hold no leverage to refuse. Consider this the price of our arrogance. Remain calm.”
Satira attempts to interject, but Vladgaria restrains her.
“Then let us proceed to negotiations. Though, this is not an appropriate place. I shall guide you to a room where we may speak at length.”
I turn toward a section of the wall and hold out my hand.
A concealed magical device embedded within the wall responds, identifies my mana signature, and releases the lock. The wall parts to either side.
Beyond the hidden door stands a spacious elevator.
“Please, follow me.”
I step inside first. Though hesitant, the others eventually follow.
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E/N:
I'm seeing a future where Vladgaria becomes another one of Ossan's wives… Let's see how the negotiations go!
Stay tuned!
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