Her Graceful War Song

Carissa noticed that the nobles and officials of Orivenia seemed unaware of Nerathia's intention to intervene in the negotiations.

Their faces betrayed confusion, but after a moment, they revealed expressions of joy and confidence. It seemed they also believed that Nerathia's involvement would provide Orivenia with solid backing.

Seeing this, Carissa felt a slight sense of reassurance. If that were really the case, Lisandra would have informed them beforehand. Or at least, she would have let the negotiating officials know.

But why hadn't she?

It seemed there was only one explanation. Lisandra was also hoping for mutual concessions. Few at court supported her, so she had brought in Faelan from Nerathia―someone whom everyone would trust.

This made sense of the conversation from the previous night, when Lisandra had invited Carissa and Violet to the palace. The remarks about unmet wishes were clear now. The example of the women taking part in the civil service examinations was just that, an example.

What Lisandra had truly wanted to say was that many decisions were difficult to implement.

After thinking this through, Carissa felt more optimistic.

Following the palace banquet, the Nerathia delegation took their leave. Aside from their meal, they hadn't voiced many opinions, engaging in only light conversation. As they departed, the Starhaven envoys also rose to bid their farewells. Everyone had to prepare, for as per Liam's schedule, the negotiations would begin the day after tomorrow.

Back at their residence in the palace, Davis gathered everyone for a discussion. It was essentially the same discussion as before. If they were to make further concessions, they would need to review the map closely.

However, Salvador had already set a limit on how far they could yield. Any further compromise would make it difficult for them to explain upon their return, and it would stain their legacy.

So, no one spoke first. They simply stared at the map, each of them silently weighing the situation in their minds.

The Nerathia delegation had taken up residence at an inn in the capital, as per their request. Liam had secured the entire building for them, and at any time, they could simply give a command for food or late-night snacks to be provided.

Now, spread out on the table before them was a map, one that differed from the maps of the two other kingdoms. This one had been drawn by their own hands, and was far more accurate than either of the others.

Faelan pointed to a mountain range, tapping it lightly with his finger. "This mountain range here divides the two kingdoms' border cities. It's the very area of

their dispute. Orivenia claims it as theirs, as does Starhaven.

"I've reviewed the old maps of Starhaven, and this territory was indeed part of their land, though Orivenia took over it later and has governed it for many years. Now, Starhaven wants to reclaim it through negotiation, but Orivenia will never agree to that. Yet, for Starhaven to simply give up... that won't happen either."

"Does that mean it's impossible to resolve?" Elysia asked.

Faelan chuckled. "Not necessarily. The fact that both sides are willing to sit down and talk means they're open to concessions. I suspect they're considering dividing the

mountain range, but the key willnoveldrama

where they draw the new boundary line And beyond the border dispute, there are many shared interests between the two kingdoms. If they open up border trade, it would benefit both parties."

Elysia nodded thoughtfully. "I see. So, as you said before, when negotiating, it's not enough to focus on one issue. One must consider the bigger picture and the broader benefits."

Faelan gently tapped the map again, letting out a soft sigh. "Sandoria, Orivenia, and Starhaven have fought for decades. Continuing the conflict will only lead to more suffering for the people. The situation is unstable, and for us in Nerathia, who are striving to develop border trade, it's becoming increasingly difficult. It's time to end the bloodshed."

They were here to mediate, but they had their own interests to protect as well. Nerathia was a powerful kingdom and strategically positioned, but to ensure its merchants could travel and trade safely between kingdoms, securing peace was essential.

The negotiations would take place in Griffin Hall, the main hall of the Orivenian palace. A long table had been set, with chairs arranged on either side. Once the negotiators from both kingdoms took their seats, Faelan entered and settled into his place in the center.