I Reincarnated as a Prince Who Revolutionized the Kingdom-Chapter 77: A Year Later

January 20, 1695.

The Kingdom of Elysea had spent the last year laying the groundwork for its first steps beyond its borders. Through careful diplomacy, calculated trade expansion, and a steady naval buildup, Elysea had begun to insert itself into the Black Continent’s economy without direct conflict. Now, after months of careful negotiations, Elysea had been granted permission to establish an official trade delegation in the city of Carthage, one of the most important coastal hubs of the Empire of Tunis.

It was not yet conquest, but it was the first official military and political presence of Elysea in foreign lands.

The convoy had set sail from Elysea’s naval port at La Rochelle two weeks earlier. The fleet was modest—five warships and three heavily laden merchant vessels, carrying diplomats, merchants, and trade goods. However, it was the military escort that set this voyage apart from any other before it.

For the first time, Elysea had sent troops to foreign soil.

At the helm of the military contingent was General Armand Roux, a young and brilliant officer who had rapidly risen through the ranks. At twenty-six, he was already one of Elysea’s most formidable tactical minds, a man whose talent in strategy, discipline, and logistics had caught the attention of King Bruno himself. Though he had started his career as a mere captain, his natural leadership and keen intellect had earned him an accelerated promotion.

His orders were clear—escort the trade delegation, ensure their security, and establish a firm Elysean presence in Carthage. This was not a military invasion, nor was it a show of force—but the presence of Elysean troops alone would send a message.

As the fleet approached the port of Carthage, Roux stood on the deck of HMS Triomphant, the lead warship, watching the distant shoreline. The city’s massive white limestone walls loomed in the distance, and beyond them, the grand spires and bustling markets of Carthage stretched toward the horizon.

The Tunisian navy had already sent an escort of five galleys, shadowing the Elysean fleet to ensure no aggressive actions were taken. Roux could see the cannons along the fortified harbor, a silent warning that they were being watched carefully.

By his side stood Minister Charles Dufort, Elysea’s newly appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs. A seasoned diplomat, Dufort had spent years negotiating trade deals across Europe. His role was to ensure that Elysea’s first official diplomatic mission to Tunis did not escalate into conflict.

Dufort exhaled, adjusting the cuffs of his pristine coat. "A year ago, this would have been unthinkable," he murmured. "An Elysean military convoy in a Tunisian harbor."

Roux smirked. "And a year from now, it may be commonplace."

Dufort gave him a sideways glance. "Let’s ensure that we’re welcomed before we think of establishing permanence."

Roux’s eyes remained on the approaching coastline. "We will be welcomed—whether they realize it or not."

The Elysean convoy docked under the watchful gaze of Tunisian officials. The port was massive, filled with bustling trade ships, towering cranes, and workers unloading spices, ivory, textiles, and gold.

As Roux disembarked, he could feel the weight of hundreds of eyes upon him. The Elysean troops—five hundred men, disciplined and clad in their pristine blue and gold uniforms—moved with precision, forming protective lines around the merchants and diplomats. Their presence was deliberate but non-threatening—they carried their muskets but did not march in formation, ensuring they appeared as escorts, not invaders.

Waiting for them was a delegation of Tunisian officials, led by Vizier Ibrahim al-Farid, an advisor to Sultan Hassan III. The vizier, an older man dressed in elaborate silks, stepped forward, his expression neutral but wary.

"Welcome to Carthage," he said smoothly in perfect Elysean. "The Sultan recognizes your king’s desire for closer ties and has granted your merchants permission to trade within our city."

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Dufort stepped forward, bowing slightly. "We are honored by the Sultan’s generosity. Elysea seeks partnership, not conflict."

Al-Farid’s gaze flicked to Roux, taking in the presence of armed troops. "A most interesting escort for merchants."

Roux met his gaze, unflinching. "Only to ensure their safety. The Mediterranean is unpredictable."

The vizier’s lips twitched slightly in amusement. "Indeed."

The Tunisian officials led the Elysean delegation through the city, allowing them to see firsthand the bustling heart of Carthage. It was a metropolis of grand markets, towering mosques, and fortified palaces.

The Elysean delegation had been granted a large compound near the docks, where they would establish their first official trade office. Within the day, merchants began unloading their goods—fine textiles, manufactured steel tools, and firearms—all products superior to those commonly available in Tunisian markets.

This was the first step—slowly integrating Elysean products into the economy, making them indispensable.

Despite the formal welcome, Roux remained cautious. He knew that not all in Carthage welcomed Elysea’s presence.

While some Tunisian merchants saw opportunity, others saw a threat. And in the shadows, not all factions of the Sultan’s court approved of foreign influence.

That night, as Roux and his officers sat in their quarters, an Elysean informant arrived, slipping into the compound undetected.

"We have received word," the informant whispered. "Certain noble families in Tunis are displeased with your presence. There are rumors that some may attempt to sabotage trade negotiations."

Roux leaned back in his chair. "Then we must be prepared."

Dufort exhaled. "We should tread carefully. If we push too aggressively, the Sultan may reconsider our presence."

Roux smirked. "I agree. We won’t push. We’ll simply make ourselves invaluable."

Dufort frowned. "And how do you intend to do that?"

Roux’s gaze darkened. "We ensure that every merchant who trades with us prospers. That every noble who aligns with us gains wealth. That every official who supports us rises in influence."

He stood, crossing his arms.

"This is not just about trade," he said. "It is about positioning ourselves within the very fabric of Tunisian society."

The next day, the Elysean merchants began their operations, slowly introducing superior goods to the Carthaginian markets.

Roux, meanwhile, ensured that his troops were seen but never oppressive—helping keep order at the docks, assisting local authorities, and proving that Elysean presence brought stability, not conflict.

The true battle was not fought with muskets and cannons—but with gold, influence, and patience.

Elysea had taken its first step into the Black Continent.

And Roux knew that once a foothold was gained, the rest would follow.