Final answer:
The gift-giving ceremonies between empires by their ambassadors demonstrated strategic alliances, symbolizing respect and goodwill between rulers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The gift-giving ceremonies carried out between empires by their ambassadors demonstrated strategic alliances. When ambassadors were sent to another kingdom, they would bring valuable offerings for the receiving king, and their own king would expect a gift of equal or greater worth in return. This exchange of gifts symbolized respect and goodwill between the rulers. If an ambassador returned empty-handed, it suggested that the foreign king was breaking off diplomatic relations or becoming hostile.