Chapter 958

Lisandra opened the negotiations. She asserted that Starhaven had violated their agreement by harming civilians and executing prisoners of war, actions she deemed an outrage against humanity and God. The Sinclair family massacre by Westhaven spies was also a grave error.

"For peaceful negotiations," she stated, "both sides must acknowledge these facts. Only then can we proceed."

After translation, Rafael and the Starhaven officials agreed. Negotiations officially commenced.

Westhaven presented five conditions:

1. A formal apology from Starhaven for the loss of life.
2. Compensation of 10,000 gold coins.
3. Delivery of 3,000,000 bushels of grain.
4. Annulment of the Fawnrun City treaty, reverting the border to its previous state.
5. The surrender of Barrett, Aurora, and Dominic for punishment.

Though prepared for tough terms, Starhaven found these demands excessive.

"We accept the first two conditions," Rafael stated, "but not the grain or border adjustments. We acknowledge our fault, but the Sinclair family massacre is linked to Victory Pass—a shared responsibility. Regarding the fifth condition, Aurora may be surrendered, but General Sullivan, severely injured and unable to control his subordinates, should be dealt with by our kingdom."

Garrick countered, "The Sinclair massacre directly resulted from your agreement violation. Westhaven is at fault, but you must also accept responsibility."

Davis interjected, "Mr. Horton, that shows disrespect for the facts we agreed upon. Grand Princess Lisandra stated that mutual respect for the facts is the foundation of these talks. The Sinclair massacre, regardless of motive, was unforgivable."

Chapter 959

Lisandra stated firmly, "We respect the facts and will adhere to the first two conditions regarding the Sinclair massacre: an apology and 10,000 gold coins in compensation. This balances those conditions. However, Starhaven must not overlook its killing of prisoners of war and villagers—a clear breach of the agreement. Therefore, increased compensation is necessary." She clarified that "balanced out" meant the Sinclair massacre would not be further discussed.

Rafael, however, aimed to remove Dominic from these conditions and reopen the Sinclair family issue, ultimately aiming for Dominic's exoneration.

"Since we're discussing facts," Rafael said calmly but firmly, "Westhaven must respect General Sullivan's role in the Fawnrun City incident. He was only guilty of failing to control his subordinates; he neither ordered nor participated in the massacre."

Dominic was not a primary target, but bringing him up was a strategic move. Westhaven refused to concede, even dragging Barrett into the discussion, arguing his responsibility as overseeing general. Protecting Barrett was crucial; surrendering him would set a dangerous precedent. Starhaven only agreed to surrender Aurora.

The first day ended with limited progress; only the first two conditions—apologies and compensation—were agreed upon. Lisandra concluded, "The Sinclair massacre cannot fully offset the events at Fawnrun City." Rafael echoed, "These are human lives; one tragedy cannot cancel another. To do so disrespects the dead." The negotiations concluded without significant breakthroughs.