Korthian-Player note: "Guess who left? Martineius. Guess who Korthian decided to work with next?"
Monopoly Proposal
Greetings Messalantha. I wanted to speak with you in person about the
upcoming topic; an issue of such high importance should be discussed.
Unfortunately, the opportunity for us to carry out this plan is nearing its
end. And with fate having conspired to keep us apart (at least for now), I
resort to quill and ink.
As a businessman, I am well aware that gold is not an end in itself. It
is a medium for trade and should always lead to something greater; anyone
who wants to gather gold just to marvel at its shininess is a moron. With
this in mind, I regularly analyze my business by inspecting past records and
ongoing transactions. Furthermore, I keep myself updated on political
developments that would undoubtedly influence my enterprise. And then,
having examined all the information before me, I make plans for the future.
Based on the most recent projections, my future is quite bright.
I could not help but realize, however, that a significant problem will
eventually present itself. The problem is this: my financial empire will
inevitably lead to direct competition with Syndicate. I fully intend to
achieve my lifelong goal of owning my own company, and I know you are
interested in increasing Syndicate's wealth (be it in gold, in equipment, or
in power). This will lead to competition, which means lower prices and thus
less profits for you and me.
Or we can work together to establish a monopoly.
No merchant has ever been as successful as I am today, a testament to my
wealth and business know-how. No mortal being in Aabahran has lasted as
long as you have, a testament to your wisdom and power. If we combine our
efforts, we can become a formidable economic force in Aabahran, more so than
if we operated separately.
So what do I have to offer? First, business experience. I am not called
the Merchant Trader, Outfitter of Aabahran for nothing. I have made a lot
of money being a broker, and this deal will ensure that my efforts will
greatly benefit you. Second, absolute loyalty. I have never went back on
my word and I have no reason to begin doing so. This deal will provide you
with someone you can trust, should you be willing to take a leap of faith
(which should not be hard, considering I stand to lose more than I can gain
by betraying you). Lastly, eight million gold. I offer you complete access
to my funds, which will essentially become Syndicate's funds. Of course,
Syndicate members will need to go through you or me before being able to
touch it.
In return, I want a permanent Elder position in Syndicate. A very bold
request, but all important transactions require boldness. Please, allow me
to explain in more detail. I want that position for three reasons. Number
one, I cannot increase our wealth quickly unless I have the authority to do
so through Syndicate. Number two, I fully intend to defend Syndicate's
standard and would require all the powers I can get. Number three, I am
bringing you a lot wealth and the potential to make more wealth. If you and
Syndicate want to create a monopoly, then I want to be Elder.
In my view, the time is perfect for you and I to begin building our
financial empire together. I am fully willing to be the junior partner in
this relationship, which will undoubtedly be very, very profitable to us
both. The alternative is much less appetizing, even if we are on friendly
and civil terms.