Clover's attitude made some of the procedures much simpler. After he stated that he wanted to contact the Five Elders, Spandine gathered all the scholars in the clearing outside the Tree of Knowledge.
After confirming that no scholars had been left out, Spandine granted Clover's wish and gave him the authority to speak with the Five Elders.
"Clover, the fact that this call reached us is enough to show that your friends' persuasion could not make you change your mind. Have you still chosen destruction so stubbornly?
"The authority on archaeology, Dr. Clover of Ohara—we know that title even atop the Red Line Continent. You once made many outstanding contributions to world culture. We never expected you to embark on this path of crime.
"Since the evidence of your crimes has been confirmed, we have no choice. We cannot simply watch you violate the laws of the world and do nothing."
The Five Elders did not sound particularly agitated. It was as though everything had gone exactly as they expected, and they spoke in the standard official tone. Clover, however, held that tone in utter contempt.
"Drop the official rhetoric, Five Elders!"
Olvia had already notified the scholars to flee, but they had all ultimately chosen to stay. Knowing their resolve, Clover did not bother pretending before the Five Elders. Instead, he began to "report his findings" right to their faces.
It could be said that whatever the Five Elders least wanted to hear, Clover made a point of saying. When he was about to mention the name of the "Great Kingdom," the Five Elders directly issued an order to kill them.
Unfortunately, Spandine was the one carrying out the order. Even firing a pistol at point-blank range, he failed to hit a vital spot in one shot. Still, it