Sunday, August 15, 1300...
The Ramadan restaurant embodies a harmonious design that seamlessly melds modernity with elements of nature, crafting a luxurious yet inviting atmosphere. Upon entering, one is immediately struck by the warm and contemporary aesthetic, where the overarching theme draws inspiration from nature's elegance. The restaurant's dark, warm hues establish a refined foundation for the interior, with deep blacks or dark grays adorning the walls and ceilings. These colors are artfully balanced by the warmth of wood, prominently featured in the bar area and dining tables, creating a perfect fusion of the natural and the modern. The restaurant's nature-themed decor is further accentuated by suspended greenery integrated into exquisite rectangular chandeliers, adding a fresh and vibrant contrast to the dark color palette.
A standout feature is the bar area, which boasts a modern design that combines metal and wood. The bar serves as the focal point of the space, offering a convivial environment for patrons to enjoy their beverages. Behind the bar, geometric shelves create an impressive visual layout, showcasing bottles and glasses arranged with artistic flair. The bar stools, upholstered in rich velvet shades such as navy or teal, provide comfort while adding an extra layer of luxury. This area of the restaurant exudes the ambiance of an upscale lounge, ideal for intimate conversations or savoring cocktails within a refined setting.
The dining area presents a more formal experience, featuring moderately sized tables arranged to ensure both privacy and openness. The seating arrangement is thoughtfully designed to maintain intimacy while preserving a sense of spaciousness. Each table is surrounded by plush velvet chairs, mirroring the bar stools, thus achieving a cohesive blend of elegance and comfort throughout the establishment. Pendant lights adorned with golden accents emit a warm and gentle glow, enveloping the space in a cozy yet sophisticated aura. Above, chandeliers draped with greenery not only illuminate the area but also emphasize the restaurant's natural theme, allowing diners to feel as if they are feasting in a stylish indoor garden.
Another unique highlight lies in the decor, particularly the delicate partition panels that segment the seating areas. These partitions feature geometric patterns inspired by culture, serving both as spatial dividers and artistic expressions. They add a touch of sophistication and luxury to the restaurant's ambiance. Each design element is meticulously arranged to enhance the atmosphere without overwhelming the senses, contributing to a space that is both elegant and relaxing.
How Aldo wishes he knew earlier that Al-Miraj connects with Tarif through two portals of magical transportation, intricately linked to one another. A cylindrical object made of white crystal could have allowed him to plan in advance.
Indeed, every detail within the restaurant reflects a careful calculation and creative artistry from its workers. The tables, designed in a modern style that harmonizes with nature, create an atmosphere that is both opulent and inviting, complementing the overall design of the restaurant: the tabletops, typically crafted from premium natural wood, exude elegance and sustainability. The edges may be reinforced with gold-colored metal, providing a refined and polished highlight that elevates the space's luxury. Round in shape, the tables cater to various group sizes, from intimate gatherings to larger assemblies. Table decor remains simple yet exceptionally refined, often featuring a small vase or a potted plant—such as an aloe vera or a stone cactus, native to the region—positioned at the center. The choice of flowers and greenery varies by season, imbuing the setting with freshness and evoking a connection to nature. Rather than employing tablecloths, the restaurant often showcases the natural surfaces of wood or stone, highlighting the material's authentic beauty.
The chair upon which Aldo sits is designed to provide maximum comfort for diners while preserving an elegant aesthetic. The chair's frame, potentially crafted from metal, imparts a sense of sturdiness without appearing cumbersome. The backrest and seat cushions are usually upholstered in soft velvet or leather, ensuring comfort during extended sitting while simultaneously offering a touch of luxury. The chairs typically feature darker tones such as navy, gray, or black, harmoniously combined with metallic accents in gold or bronze, highlighting the restaurant's refined and modern style.
The cutlery at the restaurant also reflects a refined design ethos. The plates, chosen for their simple yet elegant shapes, often consist of white porcelain or those with metallic gold rims, enhancing the table's sophistication. Knives, forks, and spoons are crafted from high-quality stainless steel, featuring a polished surface and slender design that create a light and comfortable dining experience. Notably, these utensils frequently exhibit metallic detailing on the edges or handles in gold or bronze, achieving coherence with the overall aesthetic. The arrangement of cutlery is orderly, symmetrical, and tidy, adhering to the standards of a high-end dining establishment.
Napkins are typically crafted from high-quality cotton or linen, soft and user-friendly. The colors of the napkins usually range from white to neutral tones like cream or light gray, contributing to the table's subtlety and lightness. They are neatly folded and carefully placed beside the cutlery or artistically arranged to enhance the table's elegance.
Moreover, the hanging plants in the corner of the room serve as a striking design element, enhancing the natural feel and freshness of the restaurant's space. The chosen greenery is meticulously selected, often featuring long-leafed plants or soft vines that evoke a sense of lightness. Suspended from the ceiling or anchored to the corners of the walls, these plants foster a closeness to nature, making the space vibrant and airy. The presence of greenery not only beautifies the environment but also contributes to a pleasant and cool atmosphere, allowing diners to feel more relaxed during their meals.
On the table, the Smoked Salmon Tartare is artfully arranged in a visually striking manner. The finely chopped salmon, a brilliant shade of orange, mingles with smooth green avocado. Sprinkled with delicate white flower buds and finely diced red onion, it adds texture and contrast to the dish. A drizzle of olive oil glistens atop, complemented by a fresh sprig of dill and a touch of lemon zest, enhancing the dish's vibrant and slightly tangy flavor.
Aldo sits comfortably in the plush velvet chair, savoring the softness of the backrest and the sturdy embrace of the metal frame behind him. Warm golden light gently cascades over the dining table, illuminating the surrounding space without overwhelming brightness. The scene envelops him in a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere. Before him lies the meticulously presented and enticing Smoked Salmon Tartare. The salmon glows in vibrant orange, accentuated by the cool green of avocado and delicate white flower buds. Aldo lifts the gleaming fork, lightly touching the tender tartare.
As he brings the first bite to his lips, he closes his eyes, inhales deeply, and immerses himself in the harmony of flavors. The subtle saltiness of the smoked salmon spreads across his palate, followed by the rich creaminess of the avocado and the freshness of dill and lemon zest. The small, crisp flower buds pop gently beneath his teeth, adding a touch of refined acidity. Aldo opens his eyes and smiles softly, completely satisfied with the dish. He sets the fork down delicately and sips from the cool glass, where the golden light reflects off the water's surface, causing the glass to shimmer. He senses the perfect balance of ingredients and wonders if this might be the best dish he has ever tasted.
As Aldo finishes the last bite, he leans back in his chair, glancing around the restaurant once more. The clusters of greenery suspended above evoke the feeling of sitting in a small garden amidst the bustling city. The natural fragrance of the plants, combined with the gentle light, further enhances his sense of tranquility. He raises his hand to gently tuck the gray cotton napkin, wiping his mouth politely before folding it neatly and setting it aside. Aldo gazes toward the modern bar where bottles are artfully arranged on geometric shelves, their golden metallic sheen glimmering in the soft light.
After completing his breakfast, Aldo rises and walks towards the payment counter. The soft sound of his shoes echoes on the natural wood floor, blending harmoniously with the murmurs of conversation from the surrounding tables. The receptionist greets him with a warm smile, presenting a bill encased in a supple leather cover. He carefully retrieves his wallet, handing the staff five silver coins as he expresses his sincere gratitude for the excellent service.
Stepping outside, Aldo feels a refreshing breeze sweep by, the city lights reflecting on the pavement like a serene dawn painting. He smiles, recalling the perfect meal and the warm luxurious atmosphere he has just experienced. Today, Aldo finds his heart filled not only with exquisite flavors but also with the peace and relaxation that Ramadan Restaurant has offered him. He walks quietly, blending into the flow of people, yet his mind lingers on the taste and sensations of a wonderful meal as he heads towards the palace in the center of Tarif.
Annual Conference on the Issue of Earthly Servitude
One hour and twenty-two minutes before commencement...
The city of Tarif rests on a fertile plain, with the Kethem River winding gracefully through its heart. The water shimmers in a pale green hue, reflecting the sunlight and infusing vitality into the entire region. From a distance, the city emerges like a vivid painting, characterized by its modern Arab Islamic architecture, crowned with distinctive onion-shaped domes, walls adorned with intricate geometric patterns, and ceramic motifs. Cobblestone streets extend throughout the city, glistening beneath the sun. Flanking these roads, traditional Islamic homes boast narrow windows and curvilinear roofs, enhancing the atmosphere of mystery and sanctity.
Within the neighborhoods, daily life unfolds with vibrancy. Women don flowing abayas, their heads wrapped in hijabs, some veiling their faces with niqabs, revealing only their eyes. They navigate swiftly through the markets, arms cradling baskets of fresh produce or wares. Children, with curious eyes, frolic joyfully in the streets. Boys are clad in white thawbs, while girls adorn themselves in vibrant jalabiyas. The men, dignified in their long white dishdashas, occasionally don bishts—opulent black or brown cloaks—signifying their societal status. Elderly men sit on wooden benches outside tea houses, smoking shisha and discussing current affairs.
A group of women congregates by the marketplace:
"Do we have anything new today?" a young woman asks, her eyes sparkling as she gazes into the basket brimming with fresh vegetables.
"Fresh fish just arrived from the Kethem River; you should buy quickly before it sells out," an elderly woman replies with a smile, pointing toward the stall ahead.
"Oh, these carp are enormous!" exclaims the young woman.
The historical monuments throughout the city echo Islamic heritage. The Al-Majid Tower—an ancient edifice soaring into the sky—was erected in the 10th century to signal prayer times for the entire populace. From the tower's summit, one can behold the vast expanse of Tarif, with its closely clustered rooftops, as the Kethem River weaves through the city like a ribbon of silk. The Al-Majid Tower has witnessed centuries of events, serving as a witness to the city's historical changes. Additionally, the Sultan Tarif Mosque stands as a significant structure, its grand golden dome glittering under the sun. This is the venue for major prayers and important religious events.
One of the most striking architectural marvels in the city is the Al-Qamar Castle, where the emir organizes crucial meetings and conferences. Viewed from the outside, the castle exudes an air of mystique and power. It features towering sandstone walls adorned with intricate Arabesque designs along the base. The grand entrance, embellished with typical geometric patterns, is flanked by colossal pillars tapering to a point, reminiscent of spears, symbolizing the strength and endurance of the kingdom.
Before the castle lies a vast square, where noble delegations from around the world converge to attend the conference.
Leading the procession is a group of Arab nobility, dressed in luxurious black and gold bishts, their heads adorned with red-and-white keffiyehs, while their attendants glide behind them on hovering carpets. Their deep-set eyes, sun-kissed skin, and solemn gazes exude power and confidence. The group flows gracefully across the square, the carpets billowing in the gentle breeze.
Next arrives an entourage of Eastern nobility, clad in traditional Hanfu garments made of emerald, gold, and vibrant red silk. The leading man, with luminous fair skin, a stern yet commanding visage, deep-set eyes, and high-bun black hair, walks with authority. Following closely are guards bearing glistening swords, moving with agility and grace akin to leopards.
Finally, the European nobility makes its entrance, distinguished by the bright armor of knights, regal long cloaks, and jeweled crowns. The gentlemen, with rosy white skin, curly brown or blonde hair, exude refined elegance. Alongside them, armored guards stride confidently, accompanied by jesters who weave through the crowd, enlivening the atmosphere with humorous quips and vibrant attire.
Zihao, with his pale skin and short jet-black hair, dressed in his customary red hanfu, steps lightly toward the castle gate, where a bustling crowd flows in. In his hands, a bundle of documents—yellowed sheets, old newspaper clippings on red mulberry paper, and fine papers covered in dense handwriting. His eyes scan the surroundings expectantly, his lips tightly pressed together. Ah! There it is! From a distance, a figure appears before him. It's Aldo.
As Aldo approaches, his usually indifferent eyes reveal a flicker of surprise.
"Zihao, what are you holding in your hands?" Aldo points to the stack of documents that Zihao is carrying.
Zihao glances at the papers and then meets Aldo's gaze directly.
"History... more specifically, the history of Mikhland over the last 120 years. I've gathered it from various sources, mainly from the library in the Noir Autonomous Zone and the City Library of Al-Miraj. This will give us a more detailed perspective on everything we're facing—slavery, the Sapphic cult, and this kingdom's strange regime—the Polyarcho-Totalitarian Confederation."
"Sounds academic, doesn't it?" Aldo raises an eyebrow. "Besides the Royal Family and the noble league, is there another system governing this country?"
Zihao pats Aldo's shoulder with a light smile.
"Let's discuss this tonight, at 8 PM when the meeting adjourns until morning. This conference will last for seven days..." Zihao pauses and emphasizes, "Both enemies and allies will be here, and it's going to be quite exhausting." He gives Aldo a gentle pull, indicating that they should enter the castle.
Zihao and Aldo pass through the towering gate of Al-Qamar Castle, where the sunlight reflects off the sandstone walls, highlighting the intricate Arabic motifs carved along the base. The two pause for a moment, their eyes taking in the interior before stepping inside. The air in the castle is filled with the soft scent of incense and resin, evoking a sense of tranquility and authority.
The castle's interior is overwhelming in its grandeur and opulence. High ceilings are hand-painted with detailed frescoes depicting Arabian mythological scenes, and soft light streams down from delicately carved brass lanterns. Every detail, from the deep blue ceramic-tiled floors to the geometric patterns on the arched doorways, exudes power and majesty.
Aldo gazes in awe, his eyes settling on the colossal marble pillars etched with religious and mystical symbols, radiating grandeur. Luxurious Persian carpets in rich crimson and gold stretch beneath their feet, cushioning each step. Zihao remains silent, nodding in quiet satisfaction, his calm demeanor betraying an unspoken admiration for the lavishness surrounding them.
They enter the main dining hall—a vast space with ceilings towering dozens of meters high, crowned with the signature domes of Arabian architecture. The walls are adorned with mosaics of precious stones and colored glass, forming intricate, symmetrical geometric patterns that reflect the light from the massive crystal chandeliers suspended from the ceiling. In the center of the room, a long table, draped with an intricately patterned carpet, offers seating for hundreds.
The air hums with lively chatter. The voices of noble delegations blend with bursts of laughter. A group of Eastern nobles discusses trade matters animatedly while a nearby group of Arabs listens, occasionally interjecting with comments. European nobles sit at the far end of the table, sipping red wine from thin crystal goblets, their hands resting on gleaming silver cutlery beside ivory plates.
On the table, an elaborate spread of dishes is laid out. Platters of roasted lamb with crispy skin, marinated in rich Arabian spices, fill the room with an intoxicating aroma. Large bowls of golden couscous, mixed with herbs and pine nuts, sit at the center, surrounded by mezze plates brimming with hummus, baba ghanoush, and tabbouleh, adorned with dried rose petals for an extra touch of elegance. Delicate steam rises from the open tajine pots, revealing tender stews of slow-cooked meat in thick, aromatic sauces, filling the room with the scents of herbs and saffron.
Long benches, cushioned with luxurious silk in emerald green and gold, invite the guests to relax as they enjoy their meal. The columns supporting the domes are adorned with intricate gold leaf details, reflecting the light from the brass candleholders, casting a warm, majestic glow over the room.
Zihao and Aldo move through the groups, listening to conversations filled with power and intrigue. Zihao's eyes continue searching, and he senses the subtle tension in the air, as though every word is weighed with calculation. Aldo notices it too, furrowing his brow slightly.
They sit down, even their seating choice full of cunning. Although landless nobles of Rank D and Rank C are seated at adjacent rows of tables, Zihao chooses a seat at the far end of the Rank C table while Aldo takes a place at the head of the Rank D table. The evening is still young. Despite the tables being filled with countless dishes, only a few guests have taken their seats—mainly elderly male nobles or clusters of noblewomen gossiping about their daily lives.
"If you have matured and entered the workforce, or possess sufficient wisdom, you will recognize this. In life, there exists no comprehensive solution to any problem. Each choice you make incurs a certain cost, and from that choice, benefits arise," Zihao continues to gaze steadily, his eyes distant, whispering to Aldo.
Aldo blinks and lightly nods.
Then he follows Zihao's gaze. Aldo's eyes widen as he realizes the High Priestess, the one he has encountered, standing next to a dozen women cloaked in pink, cinched with pink sashes, reminiscent of the moment he witnessed their ambush in a tunnel—a memory that echoes vividly as if it has never faded.
The eyes of the statue mesmerize Aldo. He gazes intently, losing awareness of his surroundings. Aldo blinks, suddenly jolted by a voice that resounds.
"Sisters," the voice of a leader rises, clear and powerful, shattering the silence. The women turn to her, their expressions shifting from reverent silence to focused attention. The leader steps forward, standing before the statue, her eyes glued to the stone woman's face. "We gather here in the presence of Her, the Guiding One, the embodiment of our strength, love, and purpose. It is through Her that we find the courage to fight, to resist, and to uphold the truth of our path."
"It is the High Priestess, the puppet leader of the Sapphic," Aldo grits his teeth, involuntarily rising from his seat.
Zihao immediately pulls and pushes Aldo back down, glaring at him.
"Stay calm, Aldo. The enemy possesses 140,000 pawns—devotees, with at least 5,000 to a maximum of 10,000 women from Earth. They may be more astute than us. Furthermore, these emerging, toxic cults, like theirs, only accept women and weak-willed men into their ranks; the 'leaders' among them can manipulate them to commit unspeakable acts. They have the backing of a group of five noblewomen who may merely serve as a facade for a larger network." Zihao's gaze sharpens on Aldo.
Aldo remains silent, striving to maintain composure, gradually sitting down.
"A hypocritical lot. It is she, High Priestess Selene, who voted against my proposal in parliament regarding the 'Twelve Articles for Women' eight years ago," a voice announces. Aldo and Zihao jump and look back, spotting a tall, pale man with a calm, confident demeanor and deep-set eyes. He appears relatively youthful, well-groomed, exuding an irresistible masculine allure in his black suit and white shirt as he leans down to observe them.
"That is the situation," he exhales.
"Who are you?" Zihao queries unexpectedly, rising instinctively.
"Senator Maximus Heinenberg, 48 years old, a representative in the Parliament of the Nazi-Monarchy of Mikhland," he replies, his calm tone creating an alluring resonance.
Nazi-Monarchy Parliament? What peculiar political regime is this? Aldo, with a slight passion for politics, has certainly never heard of it. It feels as if Hitler has been resurrected here to establish that parliament.
"You are… landless nobles. If my memory serves me correctly…" he gazes directly into their eyes, then falls silent, as if awaiting a satisfactory response, a manipulation technique they both recognize.
"Yes, of course. It is a pleasure to meet you, Senator Maximus," Zihao smiles, replying, "I am Zihao, and this is Aldo, who accompanies me."
"Oh, I remember now," Maximus offers a slight smile. "You are the one selling innovative products in the market like bamboo paper, straw cards, silk fabric, wine… quite a diverse range of goods; I can't recall all… one of the few landless nobles to become wealthy through entrepreneurship. And what about you, the bespectacled one?" He turns to Aldo.
Aldo slightly frowns, struggling to remain calm before the self-assured man. Maximus's words echo in Aldo's mind like a warning bell, bringing him back to reality. Maximus represents a force he has never encountered before, and his presence at this meeting is undoubtedly not coincidental.
Zihao maintains a smirk on his face, yet Aldo can sense the tension beneath that calm facade. Zihao does not easily become ensnared in the political games of others, but Maximus seems to have stirred something within him. Zihao cautiously probes, his gaze sharp as if trying to see through Maximus's soul.
"It is a pleasure to meet you, Senator," Zihao says, softly but with confidence. "I did not expect a figure of your stature to be interested in landless nobles like us."
Maximus smirks, his deep-set eyes concealing hidden calculations. "Everyone has their role in this landscape, Zihao. Even landless nobles can hold crucial keys. This world is full of crossroads that only the astute can discern."
Aldo silently observes the dialogue. He does not trust Maximus, and the arrogance he displays only deepens Aldo's suspicion. What Maximus represents—a National Socialist-Monarchy—carries the unmistakable scent of absolute power and authoritarian control. Aldo recalls what he has read about tyrannical regimes in Earth's history, and a sense of dread washes over him.
Maximus seems to perceive Aldo's apprehension. He turns his head directly toward him, his piercing gaze compelling Aldo to maintain his own. "Young Aldo, you seem knowledgeable about politics, do you not? I have heard you have participated in raids and harbor a profound grudge against High Priestess Selene."
Aldo takes a deep breath, striving to keep his voice steady. "Indeed, sir. But that is personal, unrelated to political matters."
Maximus smirks, his gaze revealing understanding. "Personal and political, young Aldo, can sometimes be two sides of the same coin. Never forget that every personal decision has political ramifications, and vice versa. Do you think your confrontation with Selene is merely your own affair? Behind every action lies a series of events beyond your control."
Zihao abruptly interrupts, his tone sharp. "Senator, I believe we need not delve into past matters. We are here today to discuss larger issues."
Maximus laughs heartily, raising his hand as if to dispel the tension. "Right, right. You are quite correct. But do not think I have come merely for idle chatter. I have a proposal for you both. An opportunity for you to demonstrate that landless nobles can also contribute to the future of Mikhland."
Zihao and Aldo exchange glances, their faces revealing clear skepticism. Maximus is not the type to make unwarranted proposals. Something insidious lies behind his feigned politeness.
"I wish for you to assist me in handling a small problem," Maximus continues, his voice lowering dangerously. "A group of high-ranking nobles has conspired against the crown. They seek to overthrow the Nazi-Monarchy and replace it with a democratic regime. This would obliterate all the labor we have built thus far. I need you to infiltrate that group, gather intelligence, and... eliminate them before matters escalate."
Zihao stares at Maximus, his eyes reflecting surprise. "You are asking us to act as spies and assassins?"
Maximus smirks. "If you wish to label it as such, so be it. But I prefer to view it as a means of preserving national stability, while ensuring your objectives and financial prospects remain unscathed."
Aldo feels a chill run down his spine. Maximus's words resonate like a curse, dragging him into a dark political quagmire he wishes to avoid. He glances at Zihao, hoping his friend will refuse.
"Do those democratic figures genuinely represent democracy? What are their identities?" Zihao maintains a disarming smile as he gazes at Maximus.
"Democracy or human rights is a vague concept, and can be changed to suit the tone of those who represent them.", Maximus emphasizes.
Maximus remains silent, displaying a document to Aldo and Zihao, listing the names of six organizations proposing this change.
"I take note of these organizations, as objectively as possible."
The Sapphic Church: A monotheistic religious organization boasting 140,000 members, distributed across 40 out of 70 territories (the exact number of territories remains a subject of debate) of the Mikhland Federation. Their values center on faith in the exclusion of men, the love between women, and the traditional nuclear family structure. They emphasize education, empowering women, and romantic love exclusively among women as the core principles of this faith. Their goals are clear: to demand equal rights for women; however, there is concern that this organization may pursue a form of male genocide in the name of their religious objectives.
The Peony Church: "Peony" signifies the flower of the same name. This is a branch of the Sapphic religious system, with the primary branch being the Sapphic Church. With only 20,000 adherents concentrated in the eastern territories, the values of this branch are notably more moderate and traditional than those of the Sapphic Church, primarily focusing on a path of peace and voluntary change in perspectives regarding education and women's rights.
The Puppeteers Guild: A guild dedicated to puppetry, alongside various charitable activities, including the adoption of orphans. However, negative rumors about them circulate widely.
The Qugart Tribe: A tribe of Native Americans residing in a forest between the realms of two Emirates, Rahman Al-Khouri and Assam Amiri.
The Council of Eight Bodies: Allegedly a clandestine group of noblewomen fighting for political equality for women (from the middle class upward).
The Caval Thaumaturgy Coalition (CTC): A criminal alliance comprising three organizations: the Arian Raiders, the Sweetman Territory, and the Bone Collectors.
"The young people of Earth engaging in politics in a medieval fantasy world feels nearly absurd; now, they must contend with a web of six adversaries, each with their own organizations and backing. I am weary of this," Zihao sighs.
Zihao stares intently at Maximus for a long moment, his gaze unwavering from the man's face. Aldo understands that Zihao meticulously calculates every aspect of this proposal, weighing the risks against the benefits.
"Each time a nation alters its political regime, blood is shed. For the tribes dependent on the populace's purchasing power, like the two of you, this is fundamentally unacceptable," Maximus maintains his professionalism.
Eventually, Zihao nods slightly. "Very well. We will consider it."
Maximus rises, his smile undiminished. "Good. I prefer those who listen to reason over emotion. I will reach out to you soon."
He turns to leave, leaving Aldo and Zihao in silence. Aldo turns to Zihao, his voice laden with worry. "You do not truly intend to follow his words, do you?"
Zihao sits in contemplation, stroking his chin. "Not necessarily. But we need to gather more information. Maximus is a dangerous man; I know he is a detestable politician. However, between a detestable individual and a worse one, one can only choose the lesser evil. If he seeks us out, it means we are already ensnared in this vortex, whether we desire it or not. He is the only temporary ally of power we currently possess, which is rather fortuitous. Nonetheless, this also presents an opportunity," Zihao reassures, emphasizing his point.
Aldo feels a wave of anxiety rise within him. He does not wish to become entangled in sordid politics, yet he recognizes that Zihao speaks the truth. They cannot turn away from what has transpired. He can only hope they find a way to escape this trap before it is too late.
Thirty minutes before the meeting begins, the noble families start to arrive and take their seats. Aldo continues to examine the stack of documents that Zihao has brought along. In contrast, Zihao focuses intently on observing those around them. He is already forming impressions of several individuals.
The family of Baron Heilop, the successor of Heilop I in the policies regarding slavery on Earth, and a female knight.
A young noble boy, around 12 years old, is compelled to inherit his father's estate and lands after his father is killed during a slave revolt at Baron Heilop's estate. In Zihao's initial impression, Heilop and his wife appear rather ordinary, while his daughter, Lelia, and her knight, Vilad, present themselves somewhat differently.
Zara, as he has learned, dons a dress adorned with graceful gold embroidery, both elegant and modest. Particularly striking are her blood-red eyes and her robust almond-colored skin.
The matriarch of the Autonomous Region wears an outfit rich in tribal significance, markedly different from those of the other nobles, possessing a certain "wildness" from Zihao's perspective.
Liara, the head of the Tueur a Gages principality, also serves as the reigning queen of this federation. She wears a gown in varying shades of blue that perfectly complements her long, platinum hair. Liara is also the only woman certainly not wearing high-heeled shoes; by Zihao's estimation, she could stand at a towering height of 213 cm, surpassing everyone in the room.
And there are the delegations of foreign dignitaries…