glorifiedcrown:
⇢ It was a fact known to those individuals closest to Konstantin’s seemingly callous heart that the quickest method of earning his favor was through flattery. The overconfidence which the Russian man harbored caused this sort of flattery to be received graciously, for he believed that he was unlike any other man - he truly believed that no one could compete against him, other than perhaps the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, but that wasn’t a spoken fact. This definitely wouldn’t be shared with the intriguing stranger in front of him; a man who caused the Crown Prince’s curiosity to soar with every word he spoke. Studying the other’s characteristics and assets, it was quite evident he was wealthy, and very much influential if he was invited to an event of this type - a perfect target for Konstantin’s schemes and manipulation.
“ I seem to influence people to be awestruck quite often, you are definitely not the first, ” The arrogance which dripped off of Konstantin’s chosen words became more apparent than his thick accent which always set him apart from the crowds of Lisbon, though he didn’t mind the attention which he gathered from the population one bit. Due to the fact that the second son’s excessive pride had been complimented, an impolite chuckle escaped his lips when the other bowed, not because he disrespected the supposed ‘most trusted advisor’, rather because he was enamored with the figure and wished not to express it too evidently at an event of this status. “ I have neglected Persian relations until this moment, Abuzar. I am interested to learn about whatever benefits you may have to offer, I will gladly inform my brother, the Tsar. ” The tone of fondness which now came from Konstantin’s words was mixed with a smile which formed from his usual smirk, crossing his arms in front of his chest out of habit as he spoke.
It appeared that Abuzar knew every trick in the game that was Konstantin Rurik: he had so easily played into the other’s mindset, even while Konstantin may have been oblivious to the fact that Abuzar managed to find a way under his skin. In truth, Persia had not been on the Crown Prince’s list of necessary connections until perhaps this introduction, all thanks to the demeanor which the other man carried: there were no hopes of Konstantin gaining a new admiration for the artworks in the room if Abuzar maintained the behaviors he was currently presenting.
“ Bewildering? I do hope you mean so in a positive connotation, as I intend to promote Persia in Russia’s eyes after this meeting. I do agree that it would be enticing for Persia and Russia to build and maintain a friendship, but perhaps I believe this way for much different reasons than yours, ” Beginning to walk as he spoke, he trusted the advisor would follow him, as he wished to at least make it appear as if he was appreciating the pieces being presented while not bringing too much attention to the statement he conjured.
“ You must speak of the importance of Persia. Why should I prioritize this friendship over others? Persuade me. ”
Abuzar Beg offered the Crown Prince a gentle smile, the warmest he could muster, as he soaked in his own conceit. To the shahbanu's trusted advisor, it was nothing to be ashamed of, nothing to offend, as his birth did give him the right to do as he pleased, to bask in his own glory. These things do not come easy for any man, but the nobles are not just any men. They were born with a silver spoon in their mouths, an edge and an advantage over the rest of them, with which they could lord over as much as they wanted. Abuzar was just a man, not a noble, not of the blood, so who was he to judge those considered better than him?
His smile grew wider when Prince Konstantin mentioned the Tsar himself. If he had planned this meeting from the start, it would have been the best if not only result he'd have aimed for. But this meeting was not planned, not by Abuzar at least, and he dwelled on his luck, on the opportunity bequeathed to him by the fates themselves. He had hoped for a chance encounter with a duke or two, but the Crown Prince of Russia? Who was now going to bridge both their countries in what could be the most beneficial of relations? Abuzar was beyond delighted.
"I would hope that every connotation in our conversation would be considered positive, your Majesty, as I intend them to be, though I apologize with all my heart if my command of the language is a little...in need of more work." Abuzar instinctively took his place beside the Crown Prince, walking with him. If he had not made the first step, the Persian would have gladly guided him in the same path.
The exhibition gave them the best setting for such a dialogue. It would be a waste if they did not make full use of it. "Persia, even in these times, are growing steadily strong, my Prince. The country is prospering and our trade relations continue to expand, especially with countries in the farther east. Through us, through our friendship, Russia can further thrive, bolstering its wealth through trade with new partners, as will we."
If anything, Abuzar believed that the shah would be willing to marry his own son, the Shahzadeh Mahmud, to a Russian princess in order to cement such a partnership. That would allow the boy to...take some time away from the country, perhaps even curb his criticism by way of finally experiencing the true art of diplomacy, the hardships of which would temper his youthful exuberance.
Mahmud had some skill in both war and trade as well, which make him a good asset to the Russians, and should he eventually rise to the throne, he would be thankful for the opportunity to have expanded his own accomplishments and knowledge through the match. But that's between kings and queens. Abuzar merely paves the road with his blood and sweat in hopes that it could lead to better lives for all involved.















