All the guests were being led into the estate, and towards the new hall. Seeing the number of people around some had their doubts about there being enough space, but once they entered the hall they were mesmerized by their surroundings.
'This hall is twice the size of the estate. I didn't know magic like this existed, but this place seems to be filled with surprises.' Cameron glanced around the hall.
Along the left wall was an area to house the aquatic residents. It was an artificial lake created by Zack by carving out a hole in the ground while filling it with bricks as its foundation. With his water orb, he was able to rapidly fill it, and with tips from Lydia, he created their seating areas.
All through the lake were tables that floated on the surface of the lake, and a stone platform down the middle separating it. Cameron saw human residents using it as a pier to reach a few of the corner tables.
From inside the water bright lights were seen as guests swam up to the tables. A few kurage appeared walking up a ramp along the side of the lake. They smiled at the humans sitting close to the pier walking up to join them.
'I've never seen that species before. They sure are beautiful though.' Cameron smiled in their direction.
Sitting at the front of the hall was the citizens of Edens drinking, and enjoying the appetizers so casually. The guests saw no throne in the room and didn't understand where the ceremony would be taking place. Before they could question it dolls escorted guests to the tables and seeing the welcoming atmosphere a few began joining the festivities.
'Dining without their so-called king present is despicable. All of you would face death in my court.' Edward scoffed sitting at the table in disgust.
While people continued to pour into the hall there were two people at the doorway examing the glyphs.
"I've seen this spellwork before besides ruins, but they weren't functioning. You're a very gifted individual." Shen praised Vanessa.
"Their library is impressive, and if you have some free time you should visit it," Vanessa replied.
'Typically she would be hiding with so many people around. This place seems good for her.'
"It's been a long time since we've met, and you haven't aged a day," Hisato said while approaching Shen.
"I heard you were allied with Eden, but it was a little difficult to believe. Given your solitary nature." Shen replied.
"Zack shares the same desires as us, and our partnership helps ensure peace. Have you considered joining us?" Hisato asked.
"You know we stay neutral in terms of conflicts," Shen replied.
"Being neutral, and watching people suffer are two different things," Hisato said as the two entered the hall.
"Conflict will always exist in this world, and us taking action would only amplify it. Our resources are better spent gaining knowledge, and finding a way to improve this world. Change can be made without violence after all." Shen replied.
"It's because of these debates why you two never meet anymore," Haruna stated.
"Why can't you two argue like that?" Lixue asked Tian trailing in behind them.
"Because this one gets angry when confronted with logic," Tian smirked at Uther.
"You hide behind words to avoid being put on your ass." Uther retorted flaring his aura.
"That's not a good idea," Elizabeth warned Uther.
Feeling the oppressive force everyone glanced towards the entrance. They were surprised to see the leader of the mage guild roaming the town earlier, but that couldn't compare to the sight in front of them now.
The leaders of the two strongest factions in the neutral territory were standing before them, and they seemed to be preparing to fight. Sentries began moving into place but rapidly halted in their steps.
"Do I need to remind you of the rules?"
They turned seeing Zack at the door, and their auras came to a halt. When the guest saw them stopping from the arrival of a human they were confused. Seeing the two princesses greet Zack with a smile they assumed their daughters scolded them.
"I warned him," Elizabeth told Zack.
"Thanks for trying." Zack smiled.
Seeing Zack's arrival his companions ran up to greet him. All the beautiful women surrounding Zack attracted envious glares throughout the room.
"You know we had some new booze brewed for today's occasion, but if you two can't get along I understand the need to go home," Zack stated.
"It was just a game between old friends right?" Tian asked Uther.
"Yeah, just a game," Uther replied placing his hand on Tian's shoulder.
"Mind if we talk in a private for a minute?" Zack asked Hisato.
"Of course," Hisato replied.
"Is it gonna take a while?" Yu asked.
"It won't take long so save me a spot," Zack replied kissing Yu on the cheek.
The two stepped off to the side to talk about Haruna.
"Would it be possible to assist you in some of the missions you receive?" Zack requested.
"That wouldn't be an issue, but mind if I ask why?" Hisato investigated.
"I know you desire Haruna to be here, and I enjoy her presence, but she misses her old duties," Zack replied.
Hisato agreed to sending a group to work with Haruna and allowing them to conduct their missions. They discussed what missions would be best suited for them to accept. For granting his request Zack retrieved an order Rolen had prepared long ago.
"What's this for?" Hisato asked.
"It has twenty kunai and shurikens similar to the ones gifted to Haruna with some modifications," Zack replied as they walked towards the table.
Hisato looked at the ring taking a second to appreciate the fortune within his hand. During the auction proceedings, Hisato made sure to buy the majority of the items, but it wasn't possible to win them all. Having the custom-made weapons suited for their trade could protect many of their shinobi.
"I'll be sending a few people with something in return," Hisato said while storing the ring.
"I know your people will use it to ensure peace, and don't require anything return," Zack replied.
"We both have the same goals so think of it as an investment into our efforts. Do you have any preferences for the personnel?" Hisato asked while glancing at his table of women.
Zack began pondering over the situation but was unaware of suitable candidates. Wanting it to be a surprise for Haruna he couldn't ask for an opinion right away. That was when he recalled Kintaro's connection with Alisha and Christina's request for Asad to come around.
"Could Kintaro's squad, and a few shinobi of his choice join for now? I'll leave the rest for Haruna after she's aware." Zack requested.
"I'll let them know on the trip back to ensure she doesn't intercept it. Thank you for showing concern in her wellbeing," Hisato replied.
"It's only natural to show concern for a comrade," Zack said as they returned to the table.
They returned to the table as Zack took his seat next to Yu, and Yuki. Walking into the hall was lord Ozen's group and behind them queen Emilia. When the Bernadette sisters saw Arthur walking with her security detail they immediately went up to greet him.
All the guests in the hall were standing at the ready to be respectful to Ozen. Some of them had immunity under the treaty but in reality, it's just a piece of paper. If they were to anger Ozen it could be the moment to spark the next dark age, and under the current guard limitations, this was a delicate situation to navigate.