Mulindo paused at the question. "Well, yes, and no. Yes, we are on equal standing because of the war. Usually, we are the weakest and poorest of the five prefectures of Estia. Estia is in chaos right now. The war is still raging, and an outcome has yet to be determined. When it's over, the face of the leadership will change. In another few years, the Kou Collective may not be our leader."
Xasha nodded and took another sip, but his cup was empty. He poured himself another drink, then continued. "You mentioned Estia being in chaos. What did you mean?"