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nChapter 220: He Will Make This Deal

nTranslator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation

nWithout their realization, the warship had drawn closer to the harbor. Anina gracefully disembarked from the ship’s railing and waved to Monica’s group, who were still observing their surroundings with the curiosity of children. “What are you all staring at? Hurry down and follow me to meet the lord.” Upon hearing this, the captain and the chief guard were about to address their lady when they saw her enthusiastically running toward the dock and stepping onto the pier.

nWitnessing this, the two exchanged helpless glances and followed suit.

nMonica trailed behind Anina, her eyes wandering around, taking in everything at the harbor.

nBefore her was a scene of orderly activity, even verging on the peculiar.

nThe population consisted not only of humans but also included half-orcs, kobolds, lizardmen, and sea-dwellers. Despite their diverse races, there was a noticeable absence of discord or hostility among them.

nThis territory actually harbored such a diverse array of races? And they coexisted so harmoniously?

nSeeing this sight left Monica and the rest of the group astonished.

nWhat amazed them even more was the constant smiles on the faces of passersby and workers, radiating contentment and fulfillment.

nEven in their busy movements, one could sense the vitality and liveliness that permeated this land.

n“My Lady, this territory seems rather unusual…” the captain murmured in a hushed tone, his eyes filled with surprise. “I’ve never seen so many different races living together in harmony.”

n“Different races have significant differences in habits, and being able to bridge those differences suggests that the lord here is quite extraordinary…”

nThe chief guard chimed in, “Our Lienhardt Grand Duchy is relatively tolerant of different races, but internal racial conflicts do occur from time to time. So, such a situation is indeed quite rare.”

nMonica nodded and watched as Anina strode ahead with determination. A thoughtful expression crossed her face. “Since this territory manages to achieve such harmony, the lord here must have some unique methods. We might be able to learn something by asking.”

nFollowing Anina, the group left the harbor and ventured into the jungle.

nOver time, the road from the harbor to the stone plaza where the lord’s manor was located had evolved from a muddy path into a wide stone road that could accommodate three horse-drawn carriages side by side.

nThe trees on both sides had been meticulously pruned to provide shade and enhance the aesthetics. Colorful flowers and plants adorned the roadside.

nIndigenous birds unique to the island perched on the treetops, observing the passing group with curiosity.

nMonica marveled at the scenery along the way and began to gain a clearer understanding.

nThis territory was undoubtedly prosperous; otherwise, they wouldn’t have the resources to construct such facilities.

nAs they strolled along the cobblestone path stretching for hundreds of meters, the scenery ahead unexpectedly expanded before their eyes.

nA stone plaza appeared before their eyes.

nOn one side of the plaza stretched rows of residential houses for hundreds of meters, while directly in front of the plaza stood a castle with white walls and a red roof.

nSeeing the towering swordswoman turn her head, she pointed towards the castle and spoke.

n“Here you go, the lord is waiting for you right there. However, except for you, the rest must remain here.”

n“How can that be?” The captain and chief guard were the first to object, exchanging glances before one of them said, “At the very least, we should also be allowed inside.”

nIn the end, their request was personally rejected by Monica, stating that since they had already come this far, there was no need to worry about danger.

nGuided by Anina, Monica entered the castle and arrived in a spacious hall.

nCrystal lamps on both sides of the walls emitted ample light, preventing the interior from appearing dim. This illumination allowed Monica to immediately spot Ji Chen seated on the steps.

nUpon getting a clear view of Ji Chen’s appearance, Monica’s eyes widened in surprise.

nShe had pondered what the lord might look like—perhaps a middle-aged person emanating authority, or an elderly individual with silver hair. Yet, she had never imagined that the lord would be such a young and handsome man. He couldn’t be much older than her, could he?

nObserving Monica’s astonishment, Ji Chen curiously asked, “You seem surprised?”

nMonica retracted her surprised expression, gracefully performed a kneeled curtsy, and then adorned her face with her characteristic smile.

n“Yes, I didn’t anticipate you being so young and already possessing such a powerful territory. In my experience, it’s quite an unheard-of feat.”

nAt her words, a smile involuntarily appeared on Ji Chen’s face. This wave of praise, regardless of its size, made him feel rather pleased.

nHowever, he quickly regained his composure and spoke seriously.

n“I am Ji Chen, the ruler of the Stormy Sea and the New Moon Islands, as well as the lord of this territory—the Crown of the Ocean. 1 welcome your visit here. My subordinates may have been a bit offensive earlier, and I ask for your understanding.”

nMonica quickly shook her head and said, “No, it’s we who should seek your forgiveness. We entered without your consent, which, by rights, calls for our apology.

nIt’s a pity that the Radiant Envoy has already sunk, otherwise, for our visit to your territory, we should have presented a gift as a token of our meeting.” Speaking up, Monica paused for a moment, then clenched her teeth and took off the necklace from her neck. “This is a protective item my father gave me before. Now, we offer it as a gift to you. We hope it meets your satisfaction.”

nA gift from the Grand Duke of the Lienhardt Grand Duchy?

nOut of curiosity, Ji Chen focused his gaze, examining the necklace for more information..

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