Even the most valiant and battle-hardened ruler among the Hazel people had been unable to cross the walls of Xidos Fortress, let alone the Hazel people now.
And with the threat from the north drawing ever closer, Xidos Fortress had become an insurmountable problem for the Hazel people. No matter how many people died beneath its walls, it would not solve their immediate predicament.
They could not afford to wait for these negotiations, either.
The hall fell silent.
The Hazel people's frontline commander was just about to speak when an old man behind him patted him on the shoulder and rose to his feet.
Prophet Salma.
He had once served as the guardian of the Crystal Sanctuary, making him one of the three candidates for Great Prophet. His status was roughly equivalent to that of the Scepter Bishop of the Temple of Flames. Thus, in these negotiations, he was the one who had the final say among the Hazel people.
"His Excellency is quite right," Salma said in his aged voice, though he seemed to be speaking to the commander beside him. "When both sides are faced with a choice they must make, it is impossible for us to give nothing in return. Fairness is also the greatest wisdom."
"Lord Salma?"
Salma turned back and looked directly into Father Demon's eyes before slowly replying, "This city is a precious treasure of the Civilized World. If the Cruzian people can summon the resolve to protect it, then the Hazel people will be no less endowed with such wisdom and courage."
"But—"
He slowly changed his tone. "We must understand exactly what it is we are protecting."
Father Demon said nothing, because he understood. No answer was needed here.
As expected, Prophet Salma continued, "It is not merely this city. This city