Chapter Twenty Eight: Principality of Kenwit

Along with the many challenges the Commission on Appointments had faced in recent years, there is nothing more threatening as the problems of trade that besieged the District of Peace between the two great powers. Everyone is waiting for the dust to settle as the whirlwind of conflicts flare up, and the legal arguments might end up with the wielding of swords that nobody agrees with.

But as turmoil begins to boil inside the cauldron of an uncertain premise, the quiet Principality of Kenwit is facing their own demons at home. Thousands of municipalities are waging a protest on current labor practices, which might delay their valuable exports to the South Kingdom. Without the Kenwit Flasks Ltd., the love potion will be as useless as it is.

And yet, another issue unfolds. Their trade routes pass through the Tenth Kingdom, and their territory is being dragged into the issue before the Judicial and Bar Council. Aside from that, as a member of the Blue Ribbon Committee, it is in their national interest to support the extension of the peacekeeping mission in the Gawkins Republic.

They tried to take a neutral stand, but couldn't move forward without facing the issues upfront. Their leadership capabilities hinder their independent thinking to support what is good for the general welfare, and it is taking a toll on their people. With the Tenth Kingdom tariffs up, the Principality could not increase the wages at home as District taxes are due to the Appointed Treasury Exchequer.

As this cold war on tariffs is slowly simmering, the Principality has no choice but to call for a dialogue, and let diplomacy do its work. However, as tensions rise and strong rhetoric speaks the unspeakable, a win-win negotiation is far off the table. There is nothing to do but face the music.

The situation begins to be alarming as days pass by, and a meeting at home on their next move is imperative. The Prince of Kenwit has called the Cabinet to discuss their options, as they try their hardest to balance all interests.

"Are they ready?" the Prince of Kenwit asked the Cabinet Advisor to the Chief Minister.

"We are ready for you, Your Majesty."

As everybody settles into the Palace Briefing Room, nobody is assured of a future without the threat of a looming conflict.

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This Chapter is sponsored by IWC Shaffhausen.