The deputy high priest's startling words set the entire hall arguing.
Some loudly objected; even more clamored their support. Fierce quarrels erupted among the audience, arguments flying back and forth without end. In a chain reaction, the Council Hall was soon filled with an unceasing, unbearable din.
"So, the prince makes a covenant in Emerald City, grants autonomy by devolving power, and gains support in return..."
Amid the arguments, Lord Mylahovich, Emerald City's chief financial administrator seated in the front row, leaned back in his chair thoughtfully and murmured to the person behind him, "Ibo, you're the acting Grand Judge. Legally speaking, can this work?"
The young judge seated behind and to his side, Yiboning, stirred at that.
"Be careful, Ibo."
To Yiboning's left, Daikman, director of the Trade Office and Viscount of Julu Fort, spoke softly. He was studying the audience intently, especially the reaction of the Second Prince seated above. "This covenant—any one of its four points... concerns the entire kingdom."
Several influential nobles nearby kept their expressions still, yet their eyes drifted toward them despite themselves.
Judge Yiboning looked at the deputy high priest and Federico, who were still arguing in the hall, and fell silent for a moment.
"My lords, whether this can be done..."
The acting Grand Judge drew a deep breath and replied quietly, "Depends on whose law it is, the law of what time, what level of law, whether it is sacred covenant law or contract law, inheritance law or feudal law, enfeoffment law or city-state law—"
"Ibo, you're still young. Can't you cut out this official nonsense?" On the judge's right, Brioti, chief administrator of the City Hall, interrupted in a low voice, his expression impatient.
Yiboning pressed his lips together and said nothing.
"No. He can't—and he wouldn't dare."
Amisarashvili, honorary