Negotiations of Power

The emissary of the Radiant Church was seething with anger. He had never expected that the hearts of his supposed allies could shift so quickly. Those he had once trusted, who had appeared to be on amicable terms, were now entirely focused on their own interests, disregarding the bonds of the past when it came to crucial moments like this.

As the situation in the hall grew increasingly chaotic, the emissary of the Light Church recalled his orders and, with a steely resolve, pressed on:"No matter the circumstances, we must keep our composure. We cannot let this conflict drag on endlessly. A protracted war benefits no one in this alliance."

The Radiant Emissary took a breath and, realizing further bickering would only worsen matters, replied with more restraint:"You're right. We must bring an end to this war immediately. Let's move forward with the negotiations."

With a serious expression, the emissary of the Light Church surveyed the room. His gaze finally landed on both the Radiant and Blinding Emissaries. His voice was firm, commanding the attention of everyone present."You two bickering here is not a solution. Neither of you can decide the true course of these negotiations. To resolve this properly, we must bring the true leaders from each of your domains to the table. The Cardinal of the Light Church will mediate and ensure fairness in the process. So, enough of this pointless bickering. Let us not waste any more time."

The Radiant Emissary nodded resolutely, immediately standing up and declaring,"I'll send a message to the Church. We'll have them send someone over right away to begin the talks and settle this dispute."

Without wasting any time, he swiftly left the hall to arrange the message.

The Blinding Emissary, after weighing the situation, knew he couldn't afford to drag things out. He rose slowly, his tone unyielding as he spoke:"Then, I will send word as well. However, whether my Church agrees to the talks and who they send will depend on their response. I cannot make that decision myself."With those words, he adjusted his sleeves and exited the hall.

Meanwhile, Raymond, having received both Rowan's command and the Blinding Emissary's message, was now clear on the situation. He quickly responded, informing the Blinding Emissary that he would attend the talks, though his duties would keep him tied up for a week before he could arrive.

Rowan and Black, leading their mighty army, advanced relentlessly. Their forces moved like a tidal wave, quickly closing in on the heart of the Lorraine Duchy—Lorraine City. The defenders on the city walls could see the dust clouds rising in the distance, the glint of weapons flashing in the sunlight. An overwhelming sense of dread began to settle over the city.

Inside Lorraine City, Chief Judge Solro had gathered twenty thousand soldiers for an emergency meeting with the Emperor of Lorraine and his ministers and nobles.Solro's face was grave as he scanned the room, his voice heavy yet powerful as he addressed the assembly:"Everyone, the situation is dire. Lorraine Duchy stands at the brink of annihilation. The Blinding Church's forces are closing in, and if we do not unite and fight with everything we have, we will face total destruction. If Lorraine City falls, none of you will be spared. Your wealth, your lands, your families—everything you hold dear will be lost."

The Emperor, seated on his luxurious but now ominously heavy throne, nodded solemnly."Fighting off this invasion and killing the enemy is our duty. The royal family will cooperate fully with the Radiant Church. Together, we will defend our people and our land."

Deep down, the Emperor knew the truth—his options were limited. There was no other choice but to tie his fate to the Radiant Church's war machine and face whatever came.

The ministers and nobles, seeing the Emperor's resolve, quickly voiced their support. Each vowed to do their part, gathering their forces and resources to defend Lorraine City. Although fear and doubt lingered in their hearts, in the face of imminent destruction, they had no choice but to stand side by side with the Church, hoping for a miracle to fend off the Blinding Church's ruthless assault and keep the Duchy from falling.

The next morning, as the first light of dawn bathed the earth, Black led his eight thousand formidable knights and ten thousand well-disciplined infantry to the gates of Lorraine City. The city's massive, sturdy walls towered above them. There were only four gates, each firmly shut in a silent declaration of defiance.

Black reined in his horse, halting at a short distance from the city gates. He sent a soldier forward to shout at the defenders, his voice carrying across the field with resounding force:"Radiant Church cowards! You've been strutting around like kings! Now, you hide behind your walls like frightened turtles! Come out and face us in an honorable fight. Or are you too afraid?"

The words echoed through the open field, reaching the ears of those inside the city.Solro, standing atop the walls, heard the taunts and felt his blood boil. He had been itching for a confrontation with Black, believing that if he could defeat the enemy's leader, the tides of battle could be turned. But, caution weighed on his mind—he feared the Blinding Church might have other hidden experts waiting in the wings. If they rushed out and fell into a trap, it could spell disaster.

He suppressed his anger, staying put, and decided to hold the city's defenses, hoping for a delay in the negotiations with the Light Church and the Blinding Church. Perhaps a peaceful solution might yet present itself.

Black, seeing that there was no immediate response from the city, turned his horse around and rode back to Rowan, offering a resigned sigh."Your Holiness, they're hiding inside, unwilling to face us. Should we press the attack?"

Rowan furrowed his brow, thinking carefully for a moment. Then, a knowing smile spread across his face."There's no need for a direct assault just yet. Send more men to taunt them. Let them shout insults, say whatever they want. We'll fan their anger and see how long they can remain holed up inside."