The return of the fallen king

Chapter 10: Negotation with the King of Bohemia (3)

Ottokar leaned back in his ornate chair, maintaining an air of nonchalance even though the offer on the table was of considerable importance. His fingers traced a subtle pattern on the armrest as he contemplated Conradin's request. The Duke of Swabia, a crucial title, was indeed a substantial guarantee of payment, and Ottokar had no doubts about its value.

"I believe that the Duchy of Swabia performs more than adequately as a guarantee of payment," Ottokar remarked with a carefully composed expression, though the words rang hollow to his own ears. In truth, he was intrigued by the prospect of binding Conradin further through financial ties, knowing that such arrangements often yielded more influence than mere conquests.

Conradin, skilled in the art of negotiation, appeared to ignore the subtle falsehood in Ottokar's words and pressed on, indicating a desire to delve into the finer details of their arrangement.

"I think then we can talk about the little details, like how much gold to lend me," Conradin suggested, his demeanor now more composed and businesslike.

Ottokar nodded in agreement. The opportunity to secure his interests by providing a substantial loan was a tantalizing prospect. "I agree," Ottokar replied, masking his eagerness with a veneer of diplomacy. "And I believe we can now discuss the amount of gold. What did you have in mind when you asked for it?"

Conradin, ever the shrewd negotiator, appeared composed and ready to proceed. "Well, considering my army's expenses, I believe a loan of 400,000 denarii should be enough."

Ottokar concealed a satisfied smile. The sum was considerable but reasonable, and it offered the perfect balance between financial support and ensuring Conradin's reliance on Bohemia.

"Very good," Ottokar replied, his voice carrying an air of approval. "The sum is reasonable and feasible; the payment will be transferred immediately to you on the day you leave." Inwardly, he knew that this financial arrangement had the potential to bind their fates in more ways than one, and Ottokar was more than willing to explore those possibilities in the future.

The conversation shifted once more, this time focusing on the crucial details of the loan. Conradin, always the astute strategist, inquired about the interest rate and the repayment terms. Ottokar, his eyes betraying a hint of calculation, took a moment to mull over his response. The interest rate and repayment schedule would determine not only the financial burden on Conradin but also the extent of Ottokar's leverage.

"You will have to repay 650,000 denarii with a 35% interest rate every six months, beginning with the second year of debt," Ottokar finally stated, his words carrying the weight of his intended terms.

Conradin struggled to maintain his composure, the shock of Ottokar's demands evident in his eyes. The terms were indeed excessive, and it took all of Conradin's self-control to respond with a feigned cheerfulness.

"Your Highness," he began, masking his frustration with a polite tone, "I believe that these terms are a little... excessive. Alternatively, I was considering returning 480,000 denarii with a 10% annual interest rate, beginning with the third year of debt."

Inside, Conradin's heart sank. He knew that accepting Ottokar's initial offer would be disastrous for his finances, but he also understood the delicate art of negotiation. He needed to start with a counteroffer that allowed room for compromise while not appearing too eager to accept Ottokar's terms. The fate of his kingdom hung in the balance, and Conradin was determined to secure a more reasonable agreement.

The negotiation between the two kings continued for what felt like an eternity. Inside the lavishly adorned chamber, the air was thick with tension as they debated the terms of the loan, their voices occasionally rising in disagreement. Servants and attendants waited nervously outside the closed doors, well aware of the gravity of the discussions taking place within.

Conradin, determined to secure the best possible terms for his kingdom, countered Ottokar's initial offer with a shrewd proposal. "I am sorry, Your Highness," he began, maintaining a measured tone, "but you must understand that, as the loaner, I also have a vested interest in this financial activity. Therefore, I believe that a return of 550,000 denarii, with a 30% interest rate every six months beginning in the middle of the second year of debt, would be more appropriate."

The negotiations continued, with the two monarchs locked in a battle of wits and financial acumen. The servants outside the room exchanged worried glances, their ears attuned to the lively discussion emanating from behind the closed doors.

After an exhaustive hour of debate, the kings finally reached an agreement on the loan terms. Conradin would receive a loan of 450,000 denarii, and he committed to repaying Ottokar a total of 580,000 denarii. A compromise was also struck on the loan interest rate: Conradin managed to outwit Ottokar by securing an annual rate of 20%, starting with the third year of debt.

However, in exchange for these terms, Conradin had to accept one final condition: if he failed to repay the loan within a period of 7 years, the Duchy proposed as collateral would serve as payment for the remaining amount. The negotiations had reached a conclusion, and both kings understood the stakes involved.

Conradin eventually agreed to King Ottokar's requirements, and the two men shook hands to seal the contract. Ottokar had been a tough negotiator, but Conradin knew that reaching an acceptable deal was critical. With the debt now formally secured, the two leaders looked forward to the future with confidence and optimism, Conradin for his ambition to reclaim his kingdom, while Ottokar hoped Conradin would fail to repay the loan in order to legitimately take over the promised Duchy.

Conradin has thus taken the initial measures toward his return as the legitimate king of Sicily, however only time will tell if he will actually be successful in it