In the Council Hall of the Gabella Imperial Capital, crystal lamps beneath the domed ceiling cast brilliant reflections, while ministers and senior advisers of the Secret Art Society stood solemnly on either side.
Antonio sat upon the throne in imperial robes, clutching a treaty that had just been delivered to him.
The emperor's imposing gaze swept over everyone below the steps, and he announced in a booming voice, "Gabella and the Holy See of the Lord of Light will cease all hostilities as of today."
As soon as his voice fell, a commotion broke out in the Council Hall, soon turning into heated discussion.
Antonio raised a hand to signal for silence and continued announcing the results of the negotiations: "The Holy See has officially recognized the complete independence of the Church within our borders and will no longer interfere in its religious affairs or personnel appointments. At the same time, the Holy See must pay our nation three million gold coins in war reparations to compensate for the losses caused by the conflict."
He confirmed the treaty's key terms once more before continuing, "The Holy See has agreed to relinquish its protectorate over five buffer states, including the Duchy of Wallon and the City-state of Bruges. These nations will officially enter Gabella's sphere of influence, submitting to the empire and paying tribute."
"Long live His Majesty!" The Finance Minister was the first to kneel, his voice trembling with excitement.
The ministers and advisers immediately bowed in salute, and cheers echoed endlessly through the Council Hall. The joy of victory swept through the hall like a rising tide.
No one had expected that the Holy See of the Lord of Light, once regarded as the "spokesman of God" and enjoying an exalted position, would suffer such a crushing defeat in