Chapter 404: I’m a serious person!
The destruction of the Magic Council’s headquarters was a seismic event that sent shockwaves through the entire magical world. In response, the Guild Alliance summoned an emergency summit, and this time, nearly every guild master attended, far more than in previous meetings.
Interestingly, the smaller and mid-sized guilds appeared even more proactive than the major ones. Their limited resources meant they were especially vulnerable in times of crisis, and they were desperate for reassurance that the Alliance could still provide a sense of order and protection.
By the time Makarov and Rhodes arrived, it was already late afternoon. They had traveled quite a distance, and nearly every other guild master had already taken their seat.
Given the gravity of the situation, formal greetings and meals were skipped entirely. The participants headed straight into the council chamber.
For once, Makarov shed his usual laid-back attitude and stood at the front with a rare solemnity. As one of the most respected guild masters, he took on the responsibility of presiding over the meeting.
Rhodes, ever the reliable second-in-command, pulled a chair over for Makarov, then quietly stepped back into a corner to stay out of the spotlight.
Not that he could really disappear—after all, the last meeting had ended with him and his friends knocking Lullaby into next week. That dramatic display of strength still lingered in the minds of many. Several guild masters couldn’t help but glance over at him, more than a little cautious.
Despite his short stature, Makarov stood confidently atop his chair, cleared his throat, and quickly gained everyone’s attention.
"As you all know," Makarov began, his voice firm, "the Council’s headquarters—ERA—was destroyed. Fortunately, we may have a lead on the culprit."
Murmurs rippled through the chamber. Curious and wary eyes turned toward him.
Makarov gestured. "Rhodes, go ahead."