Chapter 228 - The Three-Party Meeting
Six people from the three gathered organizations gathered around the table to take a breath, and it was Balgar Clad, the one who called the meeting, who spoke first.
"Thank you all for coming. Given the lineup here, I think we can skip the formalities and flattery. Claude, let's get started."
"Allow me to take the lead, despite my inadequacy."
An old man began, but there was no particular interest from the Anastasia Union side. They probably already knew what was going to be discussed.
"First, I propose a mutual non-aggression pact between the three parties here: the Anastasia Union, the Kikyo Society, and the Clad Family. I believe the reasons are self-evident, but do any of you have objections?"
Of course, that’s what they were going for. No one benefits from conflict right now.
The most important thing is stabilizing each camp’s territory. I certainly have no intention of wasting time on pointless squabbles.
Siegrune and I nodded in agreement.
"I predict that minor skirmishes at the lower levels might still occur, but we should agree not to escalate them. Is this acceptable to everyone?"
Hmm.
"...One point. I think the basic idea is fine, but what if it results in significant damage? For example, if one of our members is killed, I can’t just stand idly by."
Our members aren’t the kind to die in petty conflicts, but nothing is absolute. We need to be prepared for the worst-case scenario.
"In such cases, the perpetrator’s head will be handed over. This applies to all parties, including the Kikyo Society."
If one of our members kills a member of the Clad Family or the Anastasia Union, we would have to offer up the killer in reparation. It’s only fair for an equal agreement.
We train our regular members to avoid such situations, and the apprentices are closely monitored by the Instruction Bureau. But if the worst does happen, we’ll deal with it when it does.
"I understand. We’re forming this pact to prevent such things from happening, but it’s good to have a plan just in case."
"Thank you. With everyone’s agreement, the mutual non-aggression pact between the three parties is now in effect. It will be valid for one year and can be extended, revised, or terminated at the annual three-party meeting. Additionally, any of the three parties can call for an emergency meeting if necessary."
The mutual non-aggression pact for the Five Great Families was reviewed and renewed every six months. This time, it’s once a year.
Moreover, the Kikyo Society will also have the right to call for emergency meetings.
I have no intention of convening unnecessary grand meetings, but it won’t hurt to have the option. They probably don’t want to meet frequently either. If it’s necessary, I won’t refuse.
With no objections, the old man continued.
"Now, in addition to formalizing mutual non-aggression, I would like to codify some unwritten rules."
"Unwritten rules? There are many, but which ones are you referring to?"
"Specifically, the ban on explosives. Given the various repercussions, it has always been an unwritten rule in the underworld. However, it was easily broken during the recent unrest."
Explosives can harm third parties if not used carefully.
Previously, when we were attacked, a civilian who had come to file a complaint was caught in the blast and killed. Indiscriminate destruction is a weapon we cannot use if we want to coexist with the city.
We’re formalizing a rule that has been an unwritten law so far.
"I agree. But if we’re the only ones who agree, others might not care. How do you plan to handle that?"
Newcomers might ignore such rules and use explosives freely. The worst-case scenario is that they use them and we pretend not to know. These ruthless people are capable of thinking of such tactics.
"Mr. Nijoofashi, we’ve also suffered from this. I hope you understand our stance on this matter."
Balgar Clad interjected, but I wasn’t naive enough to take him at his word.
Then the Grand Master spoke up.
"Don Clad is serious. I only learned about this recently, but it seems they plan to enforce a strict ban on explosives, involving all guilds, merchant associations, and administrative districts."
The underworld leading the way in setting rules for the surface world is unusual, but Exembra is a city run by the underworld. It makes sense.
"If you’re going to that extent, I have no complaints. But what if someone uses them anyway? We won’t use them, and neither will you, but what about others?"
"Of course, we will crush them. We’ll crush the perpetrator, their organization, and anyone pulling the strings. The city, as a whole, will not tolerate such actions."
"Even if it happens once, it won’t happen again if we form a temporary alliance and crush them thoroughly. That sounds like a plan."
If the city as a whole refuses to tolerate it, it should have some effect. With the involvement of guilds and merchant associations, the message will spread.
However, someone will always break the taboo. Especially in the first instance, when there’s no precedent. It will come down to luck whether they suffer the consequences.
"Agreed. We’ll focus on this one rule. It’s better to be clear and concise."
"True. Too many detailed rules won’t be followed. A focused approach is more effective."
"Agreed. The underworld doesn’t respect laws, but if we involve the surface world, it could work. It’s a good thing."
Considering the involvement of administrative districts in formalizing an unwritten rule is quite significant.
By making previously banned activities even more strictly prohibited and involving the surface world, the message will spread. If the major underworld organizations endorse it, everyone in the city will know it’s not just lip service.
With that, Balgar Clad and Claude fell silent.
"Next, I’ll speak."
The Grand Master. What could he have to say? Balgar Clad’s knowing look suggests they’ve already discussed something.
Fine, let’s hear it.
"The arena tournament starting in the fall is a known topic. Don Clad and I have been offered seats on the board, but I want to discuss this."
The arena is a complex affair involving noble interests, the Commerce Guild, and us in the underworld.
Noble interests are particularly complex. I don’t know the details, but there have been significant disputes between the nobles of the Royal Capital and those of Exembra.
The Kikyo Society, which runs the arena, is promised substantial benefits, but the Five Great Families used to control the city, making it difficult to monopolize those benefits.
To keep them out of the decision-making, each organization’s representative received a board position and associated compensation. There were discussions about additional benefits from surrounding facilities, but to avoid complexity, it was simplified to board positions and compensation. Even McDallian accepted this arrangement, though it was likely due to pressure from the nobles and related guilds.
Now, are they going to revisit this?
"Now? What’s this about?"
I added a hint of intimidation to my tone, signaling that I wouldn’t tolerate any trouble.
"No need to be so defensive. We want to change this to a mutually beneficial arrangement."
"And? If this is boring, I’ll leave."
"I understand, but reopening old agreements is difficult for the Kikyo Society."
Siegrune backed me up.
The Grand Master is a big catch, but in this room, we’re equals. If he doesn’t like it, I’ll fight him tooth and nail.
"I said no need to be defensive. Don Clad and I are considering stepping down from our board positions. This will allow the Kikyo Society to take full control of the arena."
While the Kikyo Society effectively runs the arena, having Balgar Clad and the Grand Master on the board might make it seem like we’re just a front. This could be useful, but it’s still somewhat unsettling.
"What’s the benefit for you?"
"Have you heard about the Berliza arena?"
"Berliza? I don’t know much about it or their arena."
Berliza is a superpower in the northern continent, advanced in magic technology, economy, military, and culture. It’s not surprising that they have an arena.
The Anastasia Union’s headquarters are there, so the Grand Master being familiar with Berliza is natural. He was there until recently. On a side note, it’s also the home of my favorite character, Akki.
The Grand Master smiled and continued.
"The Berliza arena is run by the Anastasia Union, but there’s also a secret underground arena."
"Mr. Nijoofashi, Don Clad and I are proposing to run the underground arena."
An underground arena... interesting.
"That sounds more exciting."
"Right? Don Clad was enthusiastic about it too. The underground arena offers a different kind of excitement and bigger profits. With Exembra’s current economic flow, it’s a no-brainer."
"According to the Grand Master, when the public arena opens, there will always be people who want more extreme shows. The underground arena is essential to meet that demand and prevent new outsiders from taking over."
I see. The bigger the profits, the more we can eliminate unnecessary middlemen. After all, it’s an underground arena, so we only need to follow the bare minimum of rules.
There are some concerns, but if there’s a demand, we should consider supplying it. Of course, within reasonable limits.
"You’re proposing to run the underground arena with both the Anastasia Union and the Clad Family?"
"No, each will run one in their territory. Given the underground nature, it’s better to keep it small. Based on the situation in Berliza, there’s room for two in Exembra."
"We’re counting on the Kikyo Society. The success of the public arena will drive the underground one. The Grand Master will provide expertise."
"If it’s mutually beneficial, I’m willing to cooperate. The Kikyo Society will share our arena management expertise."
It’s a tempting offer. Tempting deals are usually risky, but in this case, it seems mutually beneficial. I can’t see any downsides.
"So, you’re asking me to recognize the underground arena. You might also want me to handle the recruitment of fighters for it."
"It’s about mutual benefit. Both the public and underground arenas thriving means more profit. Agree?"
I appreciate that they’ve approached me openly instead of operating in the shadows. It shows they’re committed to mutual benefit, which is reassuring.
"Stepping down from the board and providing management expertise... not bad. What do you think, Siegrune?"
"I think it’s not bad, but I’d like to add one condition."
Oh, what’s that?
"Siegrune, go ahead. We’re all ears."
"I’ll listen."
Encouraged by the two of them, I nodded for Siegrune to speak.
"The Kikyo Society will be busy with the public arena for a while, but eventually, we’ll have the capacity to run an underground arena ourselves. Is that an option?"
I see. Running an arena isn’t easy, but we’re rapidly building our strength.
It’s a future consideration, but if the public arena isn’t enough, we might want to extend our reach to the underground arena. It’s better to bring this up now.
"Grand Master, how does it work in Berliza? Are there multiple underground arenas?"
Not just me, but Balgar Clad seems curious too.
"In short, it’s no problem. Berliza has two public arenas and four underground ones. Given the size of Exembra, there’s even room for more in the future."
"If you say so, I’m fine with it. Just give us a heads up when you’re ready."
"I’ll keep my word. If the profits increase significantly, we can also discuss providing recovery potions for the fighters. It’s a big money-making opportunity."
"That’s a relief. The more profitable the territory, the better for stability. The success of the public arena is key. We’re counting on you."
"I don’t need to be told. Grand Master, can you arrange for someone to share their expertise as soon as possible? We’re committed to making this a success."
I didn’t expect to get the Anastasia Union’s help. Their expertise in management is genuinely valuable.
I had some ideas, but I would have had to build them up gradually. This is a significant advantage.
"Danell, I’ll leave it to you."
So, that’s what it means.
"I’m not just here to show my face. Nice to meet you again, President Yukarinowe and Vice-Commander Siegrune."
"Thorough as always. Well, we’ll do our best too."
"Danell, I’ll be the liaison. Feel free to contact me anytime."
We discussed future plans and had a bit of small talk before the meeting concluded.
Today’s discussion was quite productive. Unlike formal assemblies, there was no unnecessary formality, which was refreshing.