Shiroe stood in the heart of Akihabara, the bustling city that had become a beacon of hope for many trapped players. With the chaos of their entrapment slowly subsiding, it was time to take the next step in bringing order and cooperation to this new reality. The Round Table Conference was his vision, a council of guilds to govern and protect the players.
With Serara safely back with the Crescent Moon Alliance, Shiroe set to work sending out invitations to the most influential guilds. He carefully drafted each invitation, emphasizing the need for unity and cooperation. Among the first recipients were Solo Levelling and their close ally, West Wind Brigade.
Liam, the Shogun of Solo Levelling, received the invitation with a mixture of curiosity and respect. He knew Shiroe well from their days in the Tea Party and trusted his judgment. After discussing it with his guild, Liam decided they would attend. Soujiro, the charismatic leader of West Wind Brigade, also received an invitation and quickly agreed to join the meeting alongside Solo Levelling.
As the days passed, invitations went out to other key guilds: D.D.D., Black Sword Knights, Silver Sword, Honesty, Marine Organization, The Roderick Farm, Shopping District 8, Crescent Moon Alliance, Grandale, Radio Market, and Shiroe's own guild, Log Horizon. The responses were overwhelmingly positive, each guild recognizing the importance of such a gathering.
The appointed day arrived, and the grand hall in the center of Akihabara was filled with anticipation. Guild members and leaders gathered, their varied banners and emblems creating a colorful tapestry of unity and diversity.
Shiroe, Akatsuki, and Naotsugu stood at the entrance, greeting the arriving guilds. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and a hint of apprehension. As each guild entered, whispers spread through the crowd.
The first to arrive were the Crescent Moon Alliance, their members smiling and waving to familiar faces. Next came the leaders of D.D.D. and Black Sword Knights, their presence commanding respect. One by one, the guilds entered, filling the hall with a palpable sense of anticipation.
Then, a hush fell over the crowd as Solo Levelling and West Wind Brigade arrived together. Liam, the imposing Shogun, walked alongside Soujiro, whose cheerful demeanor contrasted sharply with his fierce reputation. The sight of these two powerful guilds arriving together sent ripples of surprise through the assembled leaders.
"That's Solo Levelling," someone whispered. "And West Wind Brigade. I heard they're incredibly strong."
"They are," another voice responded. "If they're here, this meeting is serious."
Shiroe stepped forward, raising his hands to call for attention. "Welcome, everyone. Thank you for coming. We are gathered here today to discuss the future of Akihabara and how we can work together to create a safe and prosperous society for all players."
Liam and Soujiro took their seats, their guild members standing respectfully behind them. The room quieted as Shiroe continued.
"We all know the challenges we face. The inability to log out, the threat of PKers, and the need for stability and cooperation. This Round Table Conference is our opportunity to address these issues together. Each of you represents a vital part of our community, and your input is crucial."
He paused, allowing his words to sink in. "Let's begin by introducing ourselves and sharing our visions for Akihabara's future."
One by one, the guild leaders stood and introduced themselves. Isaac of Black Sword Knights spoke of his guild's commitment to justice and protection. William Massachusetts of Silver Sword emphasized the importance of strength and unity. Henrietta from Crescent Moon Alliance highlighted the need for compassion and support.
When it was Liam's turn, he stood with a commanding presence. "I am Liam, the Shogun of Solo Levelling. Our guild was formed to protect solo players and give them a place where they can be safe. We believe in the strength of the individual, but also in the power of unity. We stand ready to support this council and contribute to the safety and prosperity of Akihabara."
Soujiro followed, his smile warm and reassuring. "I am Soujiro Seta, leader of West Wind Brigade. We are dedicated to helping those in need and fighting for a brighter future. Together with our allies, we will ensure that Akihabara remains a place of hope and safety."
As the introductions continued, a sense of solidarity began to form. Shiroe watched with satisfaction as the leaders shared their visions and aspirations. The challenges ahead were immense, but with the combined strength and cooperation of these guilds, they had a fighting chance.
When the introductions were complete, Shiroe took the floor once more. "Thank you all for your words. Now, let's discuss our first order of business: establishing a code of conduct to prevent player killing and ensure the safety of all players. Together, we can create a framework that protects everyone and fosters cooperation."
The discussion that followed was lively and productive. Ideas were exchanged, compromises were made, and a sense of camaraderie began to build. The Round Table Conference was off to a promising start, and Shiroe felt a glimmer of hope for the future.
As the meeting drew to a close, Shiroe looked around the room, his heart swelling with determination. This was just the beginning. With allies like Liam, Soujiro, and the other guild leaders, they could build a new society in Elder Tale—one where players could thrive, united by their common purpose and shared destiny.