Barter's costume quickly became the center of attention, where even Chairman Lauren frequently turned toward Barter as he was giving his speech. It was apparent that Barter's dress up was too shocking for the mercenaries. But even though most of them were perplexed, they still behaved appropriately, knowing the purpose of the Winter Ceremony.
Just as Rhode had expected, Chairman Lauren represented the Mercenary Association in giving an evaluation of the mercenaries' performances over the year. Everyone should have been cheery, but the atmosphere was rather tense due to the Southern rebels. The two most formidable guilds in the South had been disbanded and the mercenaries involved in the rebellion were mostly executed. Therefore, the mercenary leaders representing the South were sick at heart. Chairman Lauren had also received instructions from the Royal Family to request all leaders to watch over their men strictly.
