This chapter's background BGM: Vogel I'm Kafig (THE RUMBLING)
Although the venue for these negotiations was called the Council Hall, it actually had no roof.
It was more like a terrace bathed in the lovely sunlight and fresh sea breeze of the waterfront—or rather, it had originally been a famous lookout in the seaside district, one of the must-visit spots for many travelers to Water-Drawing City.
At the center of the negotiating table on the viewing platform, staff had placed a tulip in a vase, symbolizing peace and well-being.
At the head of the long table, Khelben Blackstaff Arunsun sat in the main seat, with Masked Lady Rostin and Lucifer seated to his left and right respectively.
Besides them, the High Elves led by Marshal Drusilla occupied one-third of the seats, while the rest were filled by seven representatives sent by Water-Drawing City's various families.
It was plain to see that the representatives their families had thrown into the spotlight looked pale and grim.
In theory, for negotiations involving two equal powers like this, all five Masked Lords ought to have attended in order to balance every side's interests. Yet today, only two had come.
But this time, Khelben had shown no unusual anger. Instead, he had calmly accepted their excuses.
After all, the Drow's vile reputation across the Coriel Continent was known to all. He could understand the self-preserving caution born of fear and cowardice in those old men who had occupied high positions for so many years.
But anyone else could shrink back—he alone could not. He, Khelben, was Water-Drawing City's last shred of dignity and decorum.
If the Drow merely invited them to negotiate, yet he, the foremost of the Masked Lords, did not even dare respond—
He would become a laughingstock if word got out.
Just