Chapter 376.1
“It’s outrageous, Fire King,” the words of criticism rang out before Kasser could even respond. Richard’s solemn nod set the tone for what followed. “It’s not appropriate to act with such recklessness, is it?” he continued, his tone carrying a weight of disapproval.
“Indeed,” another king chimed in, “while the passion to hunt down larks is understandable, this method is not the way.”
As each king added their opinions, Kasser observed Riner’s grim expression as he retreated into his seat. A sense of unease settled within Kasser as he discerned the impure intentions behind the collective rebuke that swiftly silenced Riner. The heated gazes of the other kings towards the barrel he held were unmistakable, their hunger reminiscent of beasts eyeing their prey.
With a subtle movement, Kasser lowered the barrel beneath his chair, diverting the conversation away from its disposal. “Now is not the time to discuss its fate. Urgent matters demand our immediate attention.”
***
The following morning, under royal orders, some of the warriors from the five kingdoms who had accompanied the kings on their visit departed for their respective homelands. Upon reaching their kingdoms, all realms would initiate a state of mobilization.
Meanwhile, the kings pressed on with their meetings, mindful of the need to avoid endless deliberations. They set a time limit for adjournment, agreeing that once the wanderers, journeying with the warriors of subordinate and vassal kingdoms, arrived at the capital, the meetings would draw to a close.
Time was scarce, with only two to three days remaining—a meager allowance. Unyielding, the kings remained within the confines of the meeting room, engaging in discussions, partaking of meals, and enduring through the nights.
Numerous points of contention arose, including the selection of a vanguard, the strategy for reclaiming the Holy City, the acceptable level of collateral damage, and the methodology for locating and extricating the lurking monster within the city’s confines. Amidst this discourse, news arrived from the Holy City.