"Tell us what you want."
As the delicate dance of negotiation was about to happen between the representatives of the elves and dwarves and us, a curious dynamic emerged that left me feeling somewhat out of place. Despite the gravity of the situation and the importance of the discussions at hand, neither side seemed inclined to introduce themselves. Their identities were shrouded in a veil of silent understanding.
Instead, there was a palpable sense of familiarity between the delegates, an unspoken acknowledgment of shared history and relative mutual respect that belied the formalities of the diplomatic process. It was as if they were old acquaintances meeting once more on the familiar ground.
As I observed their interactions, it became increasingly apparent that I was the outsider in this exchange. While they spoke in hushed tones and exchanged knowing glances, I couldn't help but feel like an intruder, an interloper in a world to which I did not belong.
