Blackstone Code-Chapter 538: The Diplomatic Mission

Becoming a politician was not Lynch’s goal—not because he thought politicians were bad.
Politicians had their privileges, distinct from wealth. Their privileges were essentially greater than those wealth alone could create.
But political power wasn’t permanent. Take the president, for example: he could only serve two terms, and after that had to wait eight years before running again. During that waiting period, he was powerless, living only as a
former president
, with no real influence.
Even if the former president still held some power, it was meaningless. He became an old man nobody wanted to listen to. Only when successors showed tolerance would they refrain from criticizing their predecessor’s failed policies. But most of the time, successors were not so forgiving.
Denying the previous officeholder had become standard practice for politicians. Political power was fleeting, and Lynch disliked this. He hated the idea of holding peak power only to lose it later.
Moreover, even presidents needed the support of wealthy capitalists. So why not be the one who always “holds the cards” rather than just a temporary spokesperson for fleeting interests?
Sure, some naïve people might stand against the capitalists, pushed by ambitious new capitalists eager to break class barriers. But in the end, the federation—and the world—belonged to the capitalists, not the politicians.
This was Lynch’s reason for refusal. He could remain the top power holder at Blackstone Capital forever, but he couldn’t be president forever.
Truman sighed with some regret. “You should reconsider. You have talent, and you can work with us while still running your business.”
Lynch found this both unbelievable and understandable. When someone wants something badly, their thinking often becomes naïve.
“That’s impossible, Truman. You know it.”
Truman fell silent. Lynch meant it was impossible to both be a politician and run a business simultaneously.
There was no law forbidding politicians from doing business—many politicians were influential capitalists. But if a politician lived in luxury, drove expensive cars, socialized with corporate CEOs, people wouldn’t believe he earned everything honestly.
They’d think he bought power by selling out the public.
That’s why the federation allowed politicians to do business but insisted they appoint proxies. Mayors like Landon and funds in Eminence operated this way.
The world seemed to share a strange consensus: wealthy officials were corrupt, while poor officials struggling to survive were good. People ignored whether this was a matter of ability and simply labeled it as corruption.
On the other hand, people were more tolerant of capitalists—as long as the law didn’t label them bad, the wealthy were respected and seen as role models.
In other words: presidents come and go, but capital remains.
Fifty years passed; several presidents became former presidents, but the chairman of the board remained the chairman.
“One day it will change!” Truman offered a small retort.
Lynch smiled, “I’ll wait for that day.”
They exchanged a glance but quickly looked away; continuing would lead to confrontation, which wasn’t in their interest now.
“So, what’s your next move?” Truman composed himself and returned to work.
Lynch answered casually, “Follow the plan you set earlier. By the way, how are the talks with Gephra going?”
At the mention of Gephra, a rare smile appeared on Truman’s face. This once arrogant foe was now defeated—an exhilarating feeling.
With Preyton’s help, the federation gained detailed insight into Gephra’s internal affairs and could influence some ministers when needed.
“Not much problem. We’ll see results soon,” Truman explained.
Thanks to the ministers’ persuasion, the emperor’s attitude softened. Though he still verbally abused the federation and the president when appearing at the throne hall, it wouldn’t be long before he agreed to some federation proposals to jointly develop the Amellia region.
Of course, Gephra retained control; the federation only lent its experience in Nagaryll to help Gephra overcome current difficulties and realize its plans.
In return, Gephra agreed to share some profits with federation merchants—allowing them to bid on reconstruction projects, compete with Gephra merchants in Amellia, and use Gephra-built ports for their cargo ships.
“Sounds like they made big concessions. Gephra’s emperor is more generous than I expected,” Lynch said with a tone both complimentary and sarcastic.
Truman analyzed carefully before nodding, “Indeed. They promised things they didn’t need to promise, and didn’t concede on what mattered. But at least we didn’t lose our goals.”
The federation’s interest in Amellia wasn’t about overseas territory. Unlike Gephra, a country without strategic depth, the federation’s vast land was enough to fight a prolonged defensive war.
What the federation really wanted was Amellia’s market. This displeased Gephra’s capitalists but didn’t anger the emperor.
They sought stable overseas control; the federation wanted money. Their core interests didn’t conflict, creating a foundation for cooperation.
“After the state elections, we’ll send a delegation to negotiate with Gephra. Officially it’s joint development. It might take until late spring or early summer to reach results.”
“The talks will be in Gephra, so negotiations will be tough.”
Negotiations were expected to be difficult. Gephra wouldn’t fear the federation just because its navy was stronger. This once dominant naval power was tougher than anyone imagined.
When news of naval defeat reached Gephra, beyond the irritable emperor, the public called not for peace or explanations, but to raise armies and fight the federation to the death.
Gephra’s people were labeled
barbaric
and
belligerent
by federation officials, and this militant group was the main challenge for the negotiation team.
Now, Truman’s team debated how to arrange the delegation’s visit. If the leader was too harsh, it would seem aggressive and provoke public pressure, making the federation appear low-level and petty.
But if not firm enough, the Gephra
savages
might become insolent. If protests or sieges of the embassy or hotels occurred and were mishandled, the federation’s international reputation would suffer.
So the choice of leader was tricky. Truman thought the best person would be himself—experienced enough to handle anything. Unfortunately, the president needed him.
At that moment, Truman realized the best candidate was right in front of him. He suddenly asked, “Lynch, do you have time to go?”
Lynch considered seriously. “Maybe.”
“If you can go, better to join the delegation. I’ll add you to the list. You might need to replace the leader if necessary,” Truman emphasized, “This is for the federation!”
Lynch nodded without comment. “Yes, for the federation…” He exhaled softly. “I accept.”
He indeed had to make a trip to Gephra. Once the cooperation plan between the two sides was finalized, he would need to attend the bidding conference in person.
To avoid any artificial interference during the bidding, his status as part of the delegation would provide significant convenience.
Lynch agreed, and Truman breathed a sigh of relief. Of course, he still had other backup plans, but overall, Lynch’s participation was a sign of responsibility and increased the delegation’s chances of success in negotiations.
Though young, Lynch was highly trustworthy.
Their conversation then returned to the development of Nagaryll. The Joint Development Company was progressing at an astonishing speed. When multiple financial groups worked together toward a common goal, the energy they created made Truman uneasy.
This also fueled Truman’s inner desire to pressure and somewhat restrain capital, though he didn’t show it—he appeared harmless.
By the time Lynch left the presidential office, the major operation’s details were nearly settled. His visit to Truman was to check for any unknown risks.
Politics and capital were both extremely dirty. Friends today could stab each other in the back tomorrow. He had to stay alert at all times.
Fortunately, their goals were still aligned, so their cooperation could continue.