The Hand That Chose a Handshake
Strength is measured not only by what you can destroy—
but by what makes others hesitate to attack.
Following the dwarven encounter in North America, global calculations shifted.
The unknown became deterrence.
China's Decision
Chinese intelligence assessments concluded:
War with an unknown subterranean civilization was strategic gambling.
Cooperation offered certainty.
The Envoy
A Chinese diplomatic envoy arrived in Arcadia.
"We seek comprehensive cooperation," he said.
"Unlimited mineral export agreements."
Lee Soo-yeon asked:
"Why cooperation instead of pressure?"
"Because we do not fight what we cannot measure."
The Evidence
The envoy presented intelligence:
ministerial financial irregularities
palace security restructuring before the royal deaths
foreign communication patterns
probability of political assassination
"Stability requires truth," the envoy said.
Global Impact
Diplomatic leaks spread.
China's approach signaled restraint.
Other powers stepped back from confrontation.
Arcadia shifted from vulnerable state to strategic partner.
Ending
A shipment departed through the hidden harbor toward China.
Dorgrin observed.
"Humans chose trade."
Lee Soo-yeon replied:
"Trade is war without bullets."
Arcadia was no longer a nation under pressure.
It was a player.
End of Chapter 15