Building a Conglomerate in Another World

Chapter 171: Cost of Peace

The peace negotiations took place in the grand hall of the Amerathian embassy in the ruins of Bogotá. Representatives from both governments gathered around a long oak table, their expressions a mix of exhaustion and determination. The war had left scars on everyone in the room.

President Mariano Velásquez sat across from Amerathian Secretary of State Johnson Wright, his face gaunt and pale from weeks of unrelenting bombardment. To his left, General Rodrigo Ibarra remained silent, his arm still in a sling. The delegation from Gran Colombia was small—many of their key officials had perished in the air raids.

On the Amerathian side, Moore led the negotiations, with General Jonathan Graves and several senior advisors by her side. The atmosphere was cold and formal, the room heavy with the weight of what had transpired.

Johnson spoke first. "President Velásquez, let me begin by saying that Amerathia seeks peace. However, there are conditions that must be met. The damage caused by this conflict is extensive, and we require guarantees to prevent future hostilities."

Velásquez narrowed his eyes but nodded. "Go on."

Johnson straightened a stack of papers in front of him. "First, Amerathia will recognize Panama as an independent state. It will no longer be under the authority of Gran Colombia. This is non-negotiable."

The room went silent. Velásquez clenched his fists under the table. Panama had been a critical part of Gran Colombia’s territory and economy. Losing it would be a severe blow. He glanced at Ibarra, who gave him a subtle nod, silently urging him to stay composed.

"Panama is a significant concession," Velásquez said carefully. "But I understand that it is part of your strategic goals. What else?"

Johnson’s tone remained unyielding. "We require territorial concessions. Specifically, the regions that you call the northern provinces—what we will designate as new territories under Amerathian control. These include the areas to the west and north of Bogotá, stretching toward the Caribbean coast. This will give Amerathia direct access to key trade routes and strategic ports."

The room fell silent again. Velásquez glanced at Ibarra, who gave a resigned nod. They both knew that any resistance would be futile. Amerathia had demonstrated its might, and the world had watched in silence. No nation would come to Gran Colombia’s aid now.

Velásquez leaned forward, his voice low but steady. "If I agree to these terms, I want guarantees. My people will not be treated as second-class citizens in these newly controlled territories. There will be no forced relocations, no military tribunals targeting civilians. You will respect their rights and dignity."

Johnson nodded. "We can agree to that. Amerathia has no interest in unnecessary oppression. We want stability, not rebellion. Civil authorities will be established to govern the new territories, and Amerathian law will apply, but we will ensure representation for local leaders."

"Representation," Velásquez repeated bitterly. "As if that will undo the damage you’ve done."

"We’re not here to argue morality, Mr. President," Graves said firmly. "We’re here to ensure peace. The faster we reach an agreement, the sooner your people can begin to rebuild."

Velásquez took a deep breath, letting the tension slowly leave his body. "Very well. We will accept the independence of Panama, the territorial concessions, and the reparations. But I will hold you to your promises. If you betray them, you will have sown the seeds for future wars."

Johnson extended his hand across the table. "We have no intention of breaking our word. Let’s ensure this is the last war between our nations."

Velásquez hesitated for a moment, then shook his hand. The war was over, but the scars it left would take generations to heal. Stay connected through novelhall.Côm

Within the week, formal documents were signed, and the treaty was finalized. Amerathian occupation forces entered the newly acquired territories, while Panamanian leaders prepared to establish their independent government under Amerathian protection.