Seven Stars Calendar 1202—early autumn.
The West Semurian Trade Conference, jointly organized by the Crossbell Council President and Starlight Technology's president, Fang Zheng, had finally reached its opening day.
The attendees included the Erebonian Empire's Ironblood Chancellor, Giliath Osborne, along with Imperial Prince Olivert; Calvad Republic President Samuel Rocksmith; Liberl Kingdom Crown Princess Colotia von Auslese; and Principality of Remifilia Grand Duke Albert.
The means of transportation used by each nation's representatives to reach Crossbell were different as well. Erebonia used its Iron Train, while Calvard and Remifilia arrived in motorcades, and Liberl came by airship... Well, at least every method of transportation had been used.
"Report: representatives from each nation have arrived in Crossbell."
"Mm, I know."
Hearing the report, Fang Zheng nodded, then grinned at the pale-faced Towa before him.
"You don't need to be this nervous, do you?"
"How could I not be nervous...?"
Towa immediately protested at Fang Zheng's teasing.
"They're all important figures from various countries. There's even heads of state and a Crown Princess. And I'm supposed to coordinate and direct an event like this—what if something goes wrong...?"
"Haven't you done a fine job so far?"
Seeing Towa's anxious expression, Fang Zheng chuckled.
"Don't worry, everything will go smoothly. Relax a little. You know what's going to happen next. By then, even if things don't go smoothly, I doubt anyone will care."
"Ah... mm..."
Towa nodded with a complicated expression, while Fang Zheng rose to his feet and straightened his clothes.
"All right, let's go."
Led by Fang Zheng, the group arrived at the plaza before Starlight Tower, where Speaker McDowell had already been waiting for some time. When he saw Fang Zheng emerge, he turned and gave him a rather speechless look.
"I thought you weren't coming out."
"Courtesy is necessary, but