"The proposal shows admirable... cooperation," Alaric began, his tone respectful but somehow commanding attention.
"However, I fear we're treating symptoms rather than the disease."
He paused, letting the words settle.
"This vein is merely the first. The geological surveys suggest a network beneath these lands, one that extends far beyond the current borders of discussion."
Baron Varell shifted uncomfortably. "What are you suggesting?"
Alaric's smile was polite, almost apologetic. "I believe we may be... overcomplicating matters."
"The proposed joint venture is elegant, truly. But I wonder if we've considered the practical realities of extraction."
He gestured subtly toward the map spread across the table's center.
"The vein runs deepest beneath Blackthorn lands, the surveys confirm this. While the surface deposits extend to neighboring territories, the true wealth lies in the deep shafts that would need to originate from Lady Selene's domain."
