So I was trying to become recognized as House Hlaalu's Hortator, and I only had Orvas Dren, Velanda Omani and Nevena Ules left to convince. When I then talked Velanda, she said that she had to discuss it with her colleagues. I first thought that I was supposed to maybe talk to Nevena first. However, when I talked to Nevena, she didn't seem to understand what I was asking. I think my journal was supposed to be updated at that point, but it wasn't.

I then understood that I had to deal with Orvas Dren. But, the problem is that I had "accidentally" killed him ages ago, long before the quest had even begun. And, now, I don't seem to be able to convince Velanda or Nevena to give me their votes. They just say the same thing over and over again when I click on the Hlaalu Hortator topic. Same goes with Crassius Curio and all the other councilors I have already convinced.

First, I thought this was just a temporarily glitch, so I restarted the game. But, nothing changed. I really don't want to replay the whole game.

Have I just screwed myself, or have I missed something?

If Dren is dead, then you don't even need to visit his plantation, his vote no longer matters. As for the others, what is your disposition with them? It may need to be higher.

My disposition with them is 55. I now tried to raise it with Velanda, and she has now given me her vote. But, I still don't seem to be able to convince Neveda, even though my disposition with her is 100. She tells me that I should meet with Orvas Dren.