Carissa noticed that the nobles and officials of Orivenia seemed unaware of Nerathia's intention to intervene in the negotiations.
Their faces betrayed confusion, but after a moment, they revealed expressions of joy and confidence. It seemed they also believed that Nerathia's involvement would provide Orivenia with solid backing.
Seeing this, Carissa felt a slight sense of reassurance. If that were really the case, Lisandra would have informed them beforehand. Or at least, she would have let the negotiating officials know.
But why hadn't she?
It seemed there was only one explanation. Lisandra was also hoping for mutual concessions. Few at court supported her, so she had brought in Faelan from Nerathia—someone whom everyone would trust.
This made sense of the conversation from the previous night, when Lisandra had invited Carissa and Violet to the palace. The remarks about unmet wishes were clear now. The example of the women taking part in the civil service examinations was just that, an example.
What Lisandra had truly wanted to say was that many decisions were difficult to implement.
After thinking this through, Carissa felt more optimistic.
Following the palace banquet, the Nerathia delegation took their leave. Aside from their meal, they hadn't voiced many opinions, engaging in only light conversation. As they departed, the Starhaven envoys also rose to bid their farewells. Everyone had to prepare, for as per Liam's schedule, the negotiations would begin the day after tomorrow.
Back at their residence in the palace, Davis gathered everyone for a discussion. It was essentially the same discussion as before. If they were to make further concessions, they would need to review the map closely.
However, Salvador had already set a limit on how far they could yield. Any further compromise would make it difficult for them to explain upon their return, and it would stain their legacy.
So, no one spoke first. They simply stared at the map, each of them silently weighing the situation in their minds.
Elysia nodded thoughtfully. "I see. So, as you said before, when negotiating, it's not enough to focus on one issue. One must consider the bigger picture and the broader benefits."
Faelan gently tapped the map again, letting out a soft sigh. "Sandoria, Orivenia, and Starhaven have fought for decades. Continuing the conflict will only lead to more suffering for the people. The situation is unstable, and for us in Nerathia, who are striving to develop border trade, it's becoming increasingly difficult. It's time to end the bloodshed."
They were here to mediate, but they had their own interests to protect as well. Nerathia was a powerful kingdom and strategically positioned, but to ensure its merchants could travel and trade safely between kingdoms, securing peace was essential.
-
The negotiations would take place in Griffin Hall, the main hall of the Orivenian palace. A long table had been set, with chairs arranged on either side. Once the negotiators from both kingdoms took their seats, Faelan entered and settled into his place in the center.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Her Graceful War Song
What happens to the other chapters, I've been waiting to read more of this story, the character's and the screening are fantastic, very intriguing story...
Next chapter please, what's happening...
Very captivating novel....
Both content and context are very intriguing, the writer style of pulling out characters in their unique ways are profound,I have recommended this book because it's very captivating...