"Th-thank you for your understanding!" Diana Hoganmeel said, as if granted a pardon, letting out a sigh of relief.
"You were frightened this time as well." As a mature administrator and wizarding official, Irina Smirnova did not overly rebuke subordinates who had failed.
"No. I was not. It was all for the interests of wizardkind," Diana said.
"Rest assured, Ms. Diana. Mr. Tierra and I will certainly honor the terms we promised you," Irina Smirnova said.
"Thank you so much! Lord Smirnova, thank you so much!" Diana nearly burst into tears.
"Please calm yourself, Ms. Diana. It was only a small defeat. Our war with Vol—Tom Riddle still has a long way to go," Irina Smirnova said calmly. "Under the Great Leader's guidance, we will surely complete our unfinished cause!"
"Everything for the greater good, Diana!" Irina Smirnova declared firmly.
"Everything for the greater good, Lord Smirnova!"
After ending her communication with Diana, Irina Smirnova's formerly resolute expression collapsed in an instant. After sighing where she stood, she hesitantly walked inside.
They were still in New Tyneham Village.
Tierra had already given them a thorough tour. At the moment, he was hosting a banquet for all the visiting officials in the village government's council hall.
"Our unflappable Councilor Smirnova, what kept you so long?" Seeing Irina Smirnova reenter the banquet hall, Tierra rose with a smile and teasingly raised his glass.
"Mr. Tierra, I have something I need to report. I wonder if you..." What Irina Smirnova meant was obvious enough.
She did not step fully inside. One foot remained in the room while the other stayed outside, as though she wished to speak with Tierra alone somewhere beyond the banquet hall.
"There's no need, Councilor Smirnova." Tierra smiled. "Diana lost the debate. It's no big deal. Sit down and