In the hall, unlike the other Dragon Kings, Leon stood perfectly still as he faced Odin. He showed no signs of retreat, his expression calm and resolute.
The formidable, almost overwhelming aura radiating from Odin filled the entire council chamber, making the very air feel charged and heavy.
Leon felt the full weight of Odin's intense gaze. While he was not intimidated, he was acutely aware of the immense power behind that look.
"How do you plan to explain yourself?" Odin finally broke the silence, his voice as imposing as his presence. Though he didn't seem angry, everyone could feel the height of his expectations.
"I suppose there is a specific matter you wish to address with me?" Leon replied steadily, his gaze never leaving Odin's.
Odin made a slight gesture, indicating for Leon to follow him. "I would like to have a word with you in private, Silver Dragon Prince," he said, his tone measured.
Leon gave a slight nod of agreement.
With a small wave of Odin's hand, the others in the hall understood the dismissal. One by one, the council members and attendants filed out, the great door closing behind them and taking the intense pressure with them.
Now alone—the legendary Dragon King and the legendary Dragon Slayer—Odin took his time observing Leon, as if gauging his very essence.
"They seem quite familiar with each other, don't they?" someone murmured from the hallway outside.
"You didn't hear? When Constantine allied with him in that remote part of the north, he saved Odin's daughter, Yuna."
"Then this summit could also be a chance for him to settle some debts. He might not let this opportunity pass."
"Who knows? Perhaps it's just personal business."
Isha watched her brother-in-law's departing figure before turning to Rossweise. "Do you think he might cause trouble for Leon?"
Rossweise shook her head, her demeanor certain. "No, I do not. He is likely here to sound out Leon's stance, to see how he will influence the council's handling of these matters."
Her certainty was rooted in two facts. First, she and Leon held no old grudges or unresolved conflicts with anyone present. Second, after the last council meeting concerning Constantine, the Twilight Tower Master had privately informed her that Odin's opinion of Leon was surprisingly positive. Given that, he had no reason to stir up trouble now.
This assurance settled Rossweise's mind; she did not believe Odin harbored any ill intent.
"What do you think?" a nearby Dragon King whispered to another. "If Odin wanted to talk, would the Silver Dragon Prince have any interest in joining his discussion?"
"That depends. If they are discussing power dynamics or grand strategy, then he would likely find it intriguing," the other replied, his gaze sharp with interest.
In the now-quiet hallway, Leon and Odin stood by a vast window, looking out over the sprawling cityscape of Sky City.
"Silver Dragon Prince, you are aware that this Dragon Clan Council is meant to discuss internal matters, correct?" Odin began.
Leon nodded. "Yes, I understand."
"Then I will also listen to your opinion." Odin's gaze fixed on Leon, patiently awaiting his response.
Leon offered a slight smile but instead of answering directly, he posed his own question. "Since this situation concerns conflicts over power and territory within the Dragon Clan, could you elaborate on the council's intended approach?"
"As it is a significant issue affecting the clan's stability, it must be handled with care," Odin replied. "However, to provide more insight, you must first be clear about your own stance regarding the clan's future."
"For example, what would you do if you held the authority to decide the fates of those Dragon Kings who plot and act selfishly? How would you address their actions?"
Leon considered this before answering. "If it were my decision, I would deal with such matters as an internal affair of the clan. I would ensure these issues were contained, never reaching beyond our own people."
Odin looked at him, seemingly satisfied. "In that case, it is essential to maintain a strong stance, especially regarding internal disputes. Handling this like King Hett, who was judged by his own people, is necessary."
"But even you, Thunder Dragon King, with all your authority, cannot interfere too deeply in the sovereign affairs of another clan," Leon countered.
"From a structural perspective, the title of 'Dragon King' is primarily symbolic. While each clan respects the authority of a Dragon King, there is no true hierarchical, top-down rule within the Dragon Clans as a whole," he continued.
"This means that even if a Dragon King or elder disagrees, they cannot simply 'dismiss' another. Whether a Dragon King's actions bring danger or disgrace, it becomes a collective issue, not for any single king to judge unilaterally."
"In other words, no Dragon King has the inherent authority to judge another, nor can they impose sanctions without full consensus. Only the members of a clan, those directly affected by their ruler's actions, hold that power."
"This principle is likely the very reason the Twilight Tower Master convened this secret council," Leon concluded thoughtfully. "The purpose is not to deliver a final ruling, but to reach a... negotiation."
He paused, then after a moment's consideration, stated with steady conviction, "I have many thoughts, but my conclusion can be summed up in one word: stability."
Odin raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued. "Oh? And what do you mean by that?"
"It is about forming a solid alliance. A stable foundation is always more reliable than a fractured one."
"Yes," Leon nodded, elaborating thoughtfully. "If conflicts over territory arise and any Dragon King becomes involved, such issues cannot remain hidden for long. News will spread quickly through the clans."
"At that point, the already delicate balance could shatter, leading to heightened tension and unease. If suspicions persist and trust erodes, even a small spark could ignite a larger conflict. In the worst case, it may lead to full-scale confrontation."
"In truth," Leon continued, "I am not opposed to alliances among the clans. I would like to see us unite and act as one. However, if our unity lacks cohesion and discipline, we risk becoming nothing more than a loose collection of sand."
"If clans turn against one another, even the strongest among us will inevitably fall."
"In other words," he added, "certain Dragon Kings in distant regions have become obstacles to peace. They harbor schemes for their own gain, constantly sowing discord to manipulate the situation."
Odin looked at him, giving a slight nod of agreement. "You know whom I mean, don't you?"
After listening to Leon's detailed analysis, Odin's eyes glinted with approval. "Alres," he said. "Alres has indeed been aiming to use this council to strengthen his family's influence over Constantine's former domain."
"Ever since the last council meeting, Alres has gradually taken measures to secure Constantine's power and wealth for his own lineage. With my support, he has laid down roots in those lands so firmly that even Constantine would find it difficult to oppose him without outside help now."
"Constantine is forced into a position where accepting peace means accepting Alres's influence. The only reason Alres hasn't launched a full takeover is his caution, learned from past experience."
"In this council, Alres may continue to act with restraint. But if he secures a formal endorsement here, his influence will grow to a level that makes even the most rebellious Dragon Kings think twice before defying him."
"Anyone who attempts to oppose Alres's plans now will likely face retaliation not just from him, but from the collective might of the council."
"In other words," Odin concluded, "Alres is manipulating this council to cement his position. To challenge him openly now would be to choose a direct confrontation with the will of this assembly—and with me."
"As I mentioned, an ununified Dragon Clan will only grow more divisive, leading to further fragmentation," Leon continued. "That kind of 'stability' is an illusion that will eventually shatter. When the clan faces a true external threat, how will it handle those Dragon Kings who secretly align with enemies?"
Leon exhaled softly, shaking off a trace of frustration, and resumed with calm demeanor. "All that I have said—this is the core of my concern."
Listening intently, Odin nodded in understanding. "Your ideas are very astute, Leon. You have accurately identified Alres's underlying motives and the subtle influence these Dragon Kings wield. You have precisely dissected his hidden ambition."
"I also want to commend you on one specific phrase," Odin added. "'If they can be disciplined, but never forced into obedience...' This demonstrates a profound understanding of true leadership."
"Such an insight proves you are more than someone preoccupied with minor matters; you are a strategist who knows how to balance significant issues with necessary details."
Nodding in clear approval, Odin concluded his evaluation with a satisfied smile. "In my view, you have undoubtedly led a fascinating and successful life, Leon."
Leon responded with characteristic humility. "Thank you for the compliment, Odin."
"So," Leon inquired, steering the conversation forward, "what are your thoughts moving forward?"
"To be honest," Leon said, his voice calm and clear, "I don't care about alliances or covert strategies. Nor do I care for war and conflict."
He let the statement hang in the air, an unspoken challenge and a promise of his own unique approach to the power dynamics now at play.
Odin watched him with a gaze that had softened considerably. "Our Dragon Clan rarely interferes in external conflicts, and we are wary of involving ourselves in the affairs of the empire or those aligned with human forces. Therefore, I have neither gained nor lost anything significant by being here."
"That is to say," he continued, "if not for the Twilight Tower Master's invitation, I would not have come to this council."
"I came simply to observe and see what decisions would be made here," Leon concluded, stating his own simple reason for attending.
Odin nodded, an approving smile gracing his features. "Your restraint reflects wisdom and respect, especially for someone as young as you."
He continued, "Even Queen Vanessa once praised Constantine for his attitude and approach, suggesting he would leave his legacy to the next generation to carry forward, passing down his insights and authority. For you to stand here with such composure today shows a similarly forward-thinking mindset."
Leon raised an eyebrow in genuine surprise. "It's the second time you've shown such high praise for me, Odin. You truly believe I would have done the same for someone else's child?"
Odin nodded, his reply earnest. "Yes, I believe that's exactly the kind of person you are. And not simply because you saved my own daughter."
Leon shrugged, a touch of amusement in his expression. "Well, I don't know where you get that idea, but if you believe I saved your daughter purely out of altruism, you might want to reconsider. It wasn't an action I would have taken for just anyone."
He elaborated, "I don't act solely out of kindness. There's another part to it—perhaps because your innate magic is, like mine, derived from the elements of origin and void."
"Emmm..." Odin let out a low, rumbling laugh. "Indeed, I can see the potential in you. Within the Dragon Clan, only a very few individuals are born with the qualities of the Origin and Void elements. Only those blessed with powerful attributes like your Phoenix Scales can display this level of latent strength."
Leon shrugged again, downplaying the compliment. "Elder, if you're suggesting there's a grand destiny for me, I don't believe it. I might only be a young dragon who happened to gain a little strength."
Odin chuckled deeply. "Oh, you dragons truly enjoy downplaying yourselves, don't you?"
[Leon's internal thought: What if I told you, Elder, I'm not even a dragon? And I'm only in my mid-20s?]
After a moment, a red-bearded elder with a rough, deep voice interjected eagerly, "The Dragon Clan—battle, fierce and thrilling!"
"Alright, the meeting is about to start," Odin declared as he took his seat. "Leon, I'll be supporting your views. Moreover, I believe the majority of the dragon kings here also support your stance."
"Maintaining the stability of the Dragon Clan does not mean indulging or encouraging rash decisions."
From beginning to end, Leon had only one goal: he would never allow a war within the Dragon Clan to endanger his family. Therefore, gaining Odin's support was a crucial victory for him.
When the two returned to the council hall, Alres and the others were already seated in their designated places. The meeting was about to begin.
"Well, what brings everyone here today?" the Tower Master asked, his voice calm.
Alresis responded in an indifferent tone, "Apologies, our Master has many affairs to attend to and could not be present personally. Therefore, this meeting will proceed with the Dragon Kings handling their own matters independently. Once we reach a resolution, I will report back to him as usual."
"Ah, Demossia's clan never seems to rest," someone muttered from the assembly, hinting at their perpetual busyness.
Alres waved his hand toward one side of the council table, where several Dragon Kings had already taken their seats. "They are the primary players in this Dragon Clan council," he announced.
"However, I'm curious," he continued, his tone shifting to one of accusation. "As the Dragon Clan confronts various struggles, are any of you here truly working together with the empire in secret, for the sake of expanding your territories and resources?"
As the council continued, Alres appeared to be sizing up those around him, assessing who might be working against the clan's best interests. His words dripped with suspicion toward those who might secretly align with the empire for personal gain.
Alres continued, "You should consider the entirety of the Dragon Clan; acting purely out of self-interest doesn't benefit the clan as a whole." He then leveled a direct charge, a slight smirk on his face. "But if you closely examine your actions, you'll see that you've all been aligning with the empire purely for personal gain."
The Dragon Kings, sensing his accusatory tone, reacted with visible discomfort and stirring.
Leon's calm response broke the building tension. "Alres, when both sides stand to gain nothing from continued conflict, it only confirms that unity is paramount for the Dragon Clan's survival."
His statement was met with a mixture of nods and subtle frowns, his suggestion for a cautious compromise clearly resonating with some and unsettling others.
The discussion continued for hours, with Alres taking a central role in debating each topic. Finally, after what seemed like an endless session, he concluded with one last, demanding statement: "You must surrender any territories and resources gained through conflict in this struggle!"
The room erupted in protest, voices overlapping as Dragon Kings argued. "Why should we? Those territories were hard-won and secured through our efforts!" one shouted.
Alres countered coldly, "Letting go of certain gains is essential for securing peace with the empire!"
Another Dragon King, deeply irritated, retorted, "But it's been too long! It's impossible to distinguish which lands were taken through imperial cooperation and which were rightfully ours from the start!"
Alres's voice grew even colder. "Have you forgotten your duties as dragons? You're acting like traitors to the clan if you can't set aside personal interests for the sake of unity!"
The tension in the room peaked as accusations of betrayal and selfishness were thrown around, leaving the council hall in a state of heated, chaotic debate.
The relentless argument continued, each point met with fierce contention. Finally, Odin cleared his throat—a single, quiet sound that somehow cut through the noise and halted the intense discussion immediately.
Everyone gradually fell silent, including a seething Alres. The entire assembly directed their attention to the other side of the table, where Odin sat, waiting for his statement.
The Golden Sand Dragon King, Morgan, glanced around with a slight smirk, leaning closer to the elder beside him and whispering something quiet and amused. Meanwhile, Odin remained silent, his ancient gaze scanning each Dragon King, including Leon and Rossweise, with calculated calm. After a long pause, he turned to look at Morgan, who, sensing Odin's cue, leaned back with an entertained expression and refrained from further comment.
One by one, the Dragon Kings shared their opinions, though little consensus was found.
Odin finally looked toward Leon, who had remained quiet throughout most of the proceedings. "Silver Dragon Prince, Silver Dragon King, Red Dragon King, and the Sea Dragon's Princess," he addressed them formally, "what are your views?"
After a moment of reflection, Leon rose to share his thoughts, knowing his words now carried significant weight. Rossweise also rose to express her stance, and soon each of the leaders present voiced their perspectives with clarity and conviction.
Leon finished explaining his views, which stood in direct contradiction to Alresis's demanding stance.
Before Alres could launch into a heated response, Odin interrupted him, his voice steadying the room. "Patience is necessary, Alres; there is no need to be so hasty."
"You—!" Alres fumed, but he mastered his reaction, forcibly waiting for Odin's explanation.
"As the Dragon King just mentioned," Odin said calmly, "considerable time has passed since these lands and resources were acquired. The original owners lost their claim when they chose to join forces with the empire and seek them through war."
"Therefore, regarding the specifics of ceding control, I think we need further and more deliberate discussion," he concluded, his tone leaving no room for immediate argument.
Odin looked directly at Alresis, his gaze hinting at the need for a more professional and fair dynamic. "Don't you agree, Alres?"
With a heavy, frustrated sigh, Alres grudgingly acknowledged Odin's wisdom, muttering under his breath, "You're really something, Odin. I see your point, elder."
Odin's masterful intervention swayed the elder Dragon Kings to support a more balanced approach, and the matter was thus settled with the majority agreeing.
When the meeting finally concluded, it was clear that most supported Leon's views on fair allocation and the retention of rightfully held territory.
It seemed the Dragon Kings had generally reached an agreement. The room settled into a more stable atmosphere, with everyone's expressions reflecting a cautious optimism.
Alres, realizing he would have to accept this outcome, left the chamber reluctantly after the final vote was concluded.
"Thank you all for participating in this Dragon Clan council meeting," the Silver Dragon Prince announced. "We are grateful for the decisions made by the Silver Dragon King and others. With that, this meeting is adjourned."
"Wait," an voice interrupted. Cade stepped forward and addressed the assembly once more. "There is one more matter that needs clarification. Odin requested this be added."
"In light of the recent political changes in the empire," Cade continued, "should the Dragon Clan find itself at odds with these shifts in governance, we may need to engage in formal negotiations with the empire's new leadership."
"Negotiation...?" murmurs rippled through the hall.
"Indeed," Cade affirmed. "And regarding who will represent us in these negotiations with the humans, I have a recommendation."
Odin spoke up, slapping his hand on Leon's shoulder with a weighty, endorsing gesture. "Ahem—!" Leon cleared his throat in sheer surprise.
"Of course," Odin continued, a hint of humor in his voice, "we all know that Leon would be an excellent choice for this envoy. Any objections?"
The Red Dragon King, Isha, glanced at Leon, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. "It seems brother-in-law has quite the responsibility now, doesn't he?"
Leon stammered, slightly overwhelmed, "N-No objections, I was simply... just considering the matter."
Letting Leon represent the clan in negotiations with the humans—while Rossweise wasn't entirely opposed to the idea, she couldn't help but stifle a laugh at his flustered expression. She lightly poked her husband's shoulder, whispering to remind him of his composure, "Smile when you get home, smile when you get home."
At this point, Leon's mind was already a whirlwind of thoughts about representing the entire Dragon Clan in talks with humanity.
The result— He couldn't make sense of anything! His mind was completely scrambled