Exquisite long tables were arranged around the room, laden with a sumptuous feast and fine wine. The gaze of a particular noble was fixed on Selas.
Countess Ratifa sat at the head of the table, her posture elegant and noble, her eyes holding a hint of stern coldness.
She wore a deep blue gown, its hem embroidered with silver patterns that sparkled in the light.
Her gaze swept over Selas. She raised a delicate eyebrow, a flicker of surprise in her eyes.
"Selas, to be honest, I'm quite surprised." Ratifa's voice was cool and imperious. She beckoned him forward with a flick of her finger.
"I had expected Count Henry's minister, Claude, to be the one coming to speak with me."
Selas bowed slightly and replied, "Countess Ratifa, Minister Claude has important matters to attend to. He specifically instructed me to convey his respects to you.
And I, as the representative of the Bro Clan, am equally qualified to negotiate with you on this matter."
