Chapter 377: Open and Secret Strife (5-in-1)
by SunflowerShatak’s cloudy eyes swept over everyone present. He placed his hands on the armrests, stood up, and said with a smile,
“Everything has been discussed. I have arranged hotels for everyone. Please go back, rest well, and enjoy this rare grand ceremony. I have other matters to attend to, so I will excuse myself first!”
“Yes!”
Everyone responded in unison.
After Shatak finished speaking, he walked away with his hands behind his back through a side door of the main hall, his steps slightly quickened.
At this moment, Vice City Lord Okens, seeing Shatak leave, hurriedly chased after him.
“Shatak, please wait a moment.”
He called out as he caught up behind Shatak.
Shatak immediately stopped, paused for a few seconds, then slowly turned around to look at Okins, and said with a smile,
“Ah, it’s Lord Okins! Long time no see.”
“Shatak, indeed, long time no see.”
Vice City Lord Okens replied politely.
“By the way, why are you here this time? Didn’t Council President come?”
Shataque gazed at Vice City Lord Okens and asked.
“No, they are entangled in trivial matters and are truly too busy.”
Okins paused slightly, then explained with a smile.
Upon hearing Okins’ words, Shataque’s cloudy eyes flickered, and he said with a hint of sadness,
“That’s a pity. I haven’t seen him in a hundred years.”
“It is indeed a pity. There will be opportunities in the future.”
Okins replied, steeling himself.
“Alas, how is Council President’s health recently?”
Shataque asked with concern.
Upon hearing this, Okins’ heart skipped a beat, then he said with a smile,
“He’s very well. He is also concerned about your health, Shatak, so he specifically sent me to visit you.”
“My health is excellent. Don’t I look energetic now? As for a while ago, it was just a minor illness, and now there’s no serious problem.”
“That’s good. By the way, State Lord, regarding the Guangying Agreement…”
“Lord Okins, regarding the Guangying Agreement, everything remains as before. If you are not satisfied and want a larger share, I have given you the opportunity, so you must seize this chance well!”
Shatak instructed Vice City Lord Okens.
“Thank you!”
Okins quickly replied.
“By the way, City Lord Okins, there’s something I’d like to ask for your help with.”
At this moment, Shatak suddenly took the initiative to request.
“Please speak.”
Okins replied very respectfully.
“When you return to the Federation, please convey a message to Council President for me. Tell him that after a hundred years of not seeing him, I miss him greatly!”
Shatak’s eyes were slightly moist as he spoke sincerely.
Upon hearing these words, City Lord Okins’ suspended heart immediately relaxed, and he then said,
“Alright, I will definitely convey it.”
“Thank you. I still have matters to attend to, so I won’t entertain you further.”
Shatak said with a smile.
“No problem. Then I will take my leave.”
Okins replied respectfully to Shatak, then turned and left.
Shatak watched Vice City Lord Okens’ departing back, then turned expressionlessly and quickly left.
Inside the main hall banquet.
Commander Alec De and Su Ming and others did not leave, but waited patiently for Okins.
Not long after, they saw Vice City Lord Okens return.
Before Commander Alec De could ask, Okins spoke up.
“Let’s go!”
“Mm.”
Everyone nodded in response.
More than half an hour later.
Su Ming and the others, led by personnel from Shabask Kingdom, checked into the seven-star Twin Hotel.
The entire hotel was made up of two human-shaped buildings intertwined, with a very unique design.
This hotel was one of the top hotels in Shabask Kingdom, and at this time, the entire hotel had been cleared out, used entirely to host the Federation envoy delegation.
At this moment, Su Ming and other general-level personnel were all gathered in Vice City Lord Okens’ room, standing neatly.
Commander Alec De gave a look to Su Ming and the others.
Su Ming and the others dispersed, searching every corner of the entire suite and nearby rooms to see if there were any listening devices.
Soon, they finished their search, and General Titanter reported in a low voice,
“No problem.”
After hearing this, Commander Alec De looked at Vice City Lord Okens and asked,
“How was your conversation with Shatak?”
“It was alright. Shatak’s health is not as bad as rumored, and he is still on our side, but he wants the Federation to prove its strength.”
Vice City Lord Okens said in a deep voice.
Upon hearing this, Commander Alec De’s expression softened considerably, and he said calmly,
“This is normal. After all, a hundred years have passed, and many things have changed. It’s normal for him to have doubts about the Federation’s strength.”
“Mm, therefore, this Haunted Star event is especially important, and we must win it. This is not only to prove our strength, but also for that 10% trade tax and 10% Devourer of Stars revenue! The current Federation really needs this revenue.”
Vice City Lord Okens said seriously.
“Mm!”
Commander Alec De nodded in response.
At this moment, Major General Zhou Mu asked curiously,
“Lord Alec De, what exactly is this Haunted Star event?”
“This Haunted Star is a traditional event of Shabask Kingdom. The specific competition content is very simple: enter Wormhole Spacetime to find resource points, in preparation for Devourer of Stars mining next year. Whoever finds the best resource point wins! Of course, it’s not a aimless search. Shabask Kingdom has a Wormhole Astrolabe and its own Wormhole Passage, which can lead to unexplored areas rich in resources.”
Commander Alec De explained to everyone.
Upon hearing this, Su Ming and the others suddenly realized, so it was a treasure hunt.
At this moment, General Gabres said excitedly,
“What kind of event did I think it was? It’s a treasure hunt in Wormhole Spacetime! Leave this matter to me! I’ve been stationed in Wormhole Spacetime for years. Who could be more familiar with it and suitable for this competition than me?!”
“I want to participate too!”
General Sigrid also expressed his intention to participate.
“It’s no problem for you to participate, but this matter might not be that simple. Dark Star, Apocalypse, Saint Jocks Star, and those royal family members will not give up easily.”
Vice City Lord Okens said with a solemn expression, reminding everyone.
“Vice City Lord Okens is right, and the participants for this competition are also difficult to arrange. We only have 100 spots! If I remember correctly, the participating side can only field Level 5 Battleships, which means these 100 spots must be filled with all combat personnel and ship operators.”
Commander Alec De said to everyone.
“Commander, don’t worry, leave the personnel arrangements to me and Sigrid.”
General Gabres said with full confidence.
“Alright.”
Commander Alec De nodded in response.
At this moment, Vice City Lord Okens said kindly,
“Although I am representing the Council to be responsible for this matter, there is specialization in every art. As long as you can win, I will not participate in the selection and allocation of personnel!”
“Yes!”
General Gabres and the others replied seriously.
“Alright, I won’t say anything more. Everyone, you may disperse! Also, Su Ming and Su Yuan, stay.”
Vice City Lord Okens said to everyone.
“Yes!”
Commander Alec De and the others, seeing this, turned and left.
Su Ming and Su Yuan were also very surprised that Vice City Lord Okens asked them to stay.
Soon, only Okins, Su Ming, and Su Yuan remained in the room.
Okins said to Su Ming and Su Yuan with a very serious expression,
“Su Ming, Su Yuan, I asked the two of you to stay behind alone because I have an important matter for you to handle.”
“Please speak, sir.”
Su Ming replied seriously.
“As you can see, in this Haunted Star competition, Shatak requires all royal family members to participate, and he is offering ancestral tokens as rewards. To put it plainly, he is preparing to select the crown prince.”
“Yes.”
“Now, Dark Star Empire has supported the First Prince, and Apocalypse Divine Kingdom has supported the Third Prince, while we have no prince to support, which puts us in a very passive position.”
Okins said to the two of them.
“Lord Okins? Why didn’t the Federation support one before?”
Su Yuan asked, a little confused.
“Of course we did support one. Shatak is the one we supported.”
Okins then explained.
Upon hearing this, Su Ming’s expression didn’t change much, as it was just as he had guessed.
Su Yuan, on the other hand, replied with a sudden realization,
“So that’s how it is.”
“Now I need you two to find a way to introduce the Federation to Seventh Prince Omid through Shadr. We must ensure that the next State Lord is still our person, so that the Federation’s interests can be guaranteed.”
Okins said to Su Yuan and Su Ming.
“Understood!”
Su Ming and Su Yuan nodded in response.
“Go now, we don’t have much time.”
Okins said to the two of them.
“Alright!”
Su Ming and Su Yuan then left the room.
In the corridor.
Su Yuan said to Su Ming with a worried expression,
“Su Ming, have we completely gotten involved in the royal family’s disputes?”
“Pretty much.”
“Ah? Then what should we do?”
“Don’t worry, just be careful.”
Su Ming replied very calmly.
“Wait, you didn’t tell me that before?”
“That’s right, but the situation is different now. The Federation, that behemoth, is involved. If the sky falls, the Federation will hold it up, so what’s there to fear?”
“So, I don’t need to avoid Shadr anymore?”
Su Yuan said, beaming with joy.
“No need. Arrange to meet him, find a safe place.”
Su Ming said to Su Yuan.
“Okay, right away!”
Su Yuan immediately raised his wristband and sent a message to Shadr.
Soon, Su Yuan received a reply, and he looked at it, saying very happily,
“Shadr has set up a private room at a nearby night banquet hall and is preparing to host us. It’s perfect for a work-related outing!”
“Then let’s go.”
Su Ming said after hearing this.
“Let’s go, I’ve been cooped up for too long these past few days.”
Su Yuan said impatiently.
Not long after, Su Ming and the other person left the hotel and chose to walk directly to the night banquet hall.
They walked on the bustling street, surrounded by citizens and tourists. Many parents could be seen holding their children’s hands, playing, with bright smiles on their faces.
The entire street was decorated with colorful lights, flags, and ribbons.
On the originally clean and tidy roadside, many temporary stalls were open, allowing ordinary citizens to come in and sell handmade small items.
Numerous staff members dressed in mascot costumes, carrying baskets full of candy and balloons of various shapes, distributed them to children along the street.
The surrounding virtual projection advertisements played various promotional ads for the celebration.
Just as the two walked to a cross intersection, Su Ming inadvertently saw a flash of purple and immediately stopped, startled.
Su Yuan walked a few steps, then stopped and turned to look at Su Ming, asking in confusion,
“Let’s go quickly! Shadr is waiting for us. He specially prepared a VIP game for us!”
Su Ming’s eyes flickered, and he then said to Su Yuan,
“You go, I have other matters.”
“Damn it, you’re not going to look for a girl again, are you?”
“That’s none of your business.”
“Then what about the matter City Lord Okins entrusted us with?”
Su Yuan replied, bewildered.
“Just tell Shadr. Anyway, you two are so close, this matter is dead simple for you. I’m not talking to you anymore.”
After Su Ming finished speaking to Su Yuan, he immediately turned and chased after that purple figure.
He skillfully avoided the playing citizens, moving through the crowd like a swimming fish.
Su Ming’s eyes were fixed on that faintly visible purple figure.
At this moment, several playful children rushed towards him. Su Ming quickly raised his hand to steady them and reminded them,
“Be careful.”
“Okay, big brother.”
The children then ran off, laughing.
When Su Ming looked up and forward, he found that the person was gone, nowhere to be seen.
At this moment, Su Ming felt as if someone was watching him from behind. His mind inexplicably stirred, and he subconsciously turned around.
He saw a tall woman with soft purple hair cascading over her shoulders, exquisite and beautiful features, deep and beautiful purple eyes, and an extraordinary aura in her demeanor, standing behind him.
“Irelia Senior?”
A rare look of surprise immediately appeared on Su Ming’s face.
“Oh, it’s Junior Su Ming. What a coincidence!”
Irelia asked with a smile.
“It really is a coincidence. After the league, I never saw you again, and I didn’t expect to meet you here. Irelia Senior, why are you here?”
Su Ming’s heart stirred, and he immediately said with a smile,
“I’m currently on vacation, and Shabask Kingdom is holding a celebration, so I came to look around.”
Irelia explained to Su Ming.
“Me too.”
Su Ming followed Irelia Senior’s lead.
“Junior Su Ming, I still want to browse the stalls ahead, so I won’t talk to you much longer.”
Irelia Senior politely said to Su Ming.
“Alright.”
Su Ming replied with a smile.
Irelia Senior then strolled towards the small stalls ahead.
Su Ming watched her retreating figure, pondered for a few seconds, and finally made up his mind to follow her.
At this moment, Irelia Senior squatted in front of a small stall, picked up a silver hairpin embedded with green crystal from the stall, looked at it, and then put it back down.
She then stood up and saw Su Ming had followed her again. A hint of surprise flashed in her purple eyes, and she spoke with a touch of helplessness.
“Junior Su Ming, are you looking for me for something?”
“Yes, Senior. It’s already lunchtime, why don’t we talk while we eat? I wonder if you would grace me with your presence?”
Su Ming invited with a smile.
“Alright.”
Irelia Senior replied indifferently.
“There’s a restaurant called Sea Blue over there, it seems quite good.”
Su Ming said to Irelia Senior.
“Junior Su Ming, restaurants here aren’t cheap, are they?”
“It’s a rare chance to treat Senior, so the price isn’t an issue.”
“Alright.”
Seeing Su Ming say this, Irelia Senior did not refuse.
Soon, the two arrived at the Sea Blue restaurant.
A female waitress, dressed in a red cheongsam and possessing excellent demeanor, respectfully greeted them.
“Welcome, Sir, Madam!”
“Find us a quiet spot.”
Su Ming said calmly.
“Please follow me!”
The waitress led Su Ming and Irelia Senior to a table by the window.
Su Ming immediately pulled out a chair and said with a smile.
“Senior, please sit!”
“Junior Su Ming, you are quite the gentleman, thank you.”
Irelia Senior then walked forward and sat down.
Su Ming immediately caught a faint scent of chamomile, and his brows furrowed slightly. It wasn’t the scent of balloon flower.
However, he quickly returned to normal, walked to the opposite side of the table and sat down, picked up the paper menu on the table, and handed it to Irelia Senior, saying.
“Senior, see if there’s anything you like to eat.”
“Okay.”
Irelia Senior gracefully took it and began to browse the menu.
Su Ming carefully observed Irelia Senior. The more he looked, the more his brows furrowed, and doubts constantly swirled in his mind.
At this moment, Irelia Senior also noticed Su Ming looking at her, so she said to the waitress beside her.
“I’ll have a pan-fried cod. The rest can be ordered by this gentleman.”
“Alright.”
The waitress quickly responded.
“Bring two of your best signature dishes. Senior, would you like anything to drink?”
Su Ming spoke directly.
“Just plain water.”
Irelia Senior replied calmly.
“Alright, I’ll go place the order now.”
The waitress respectfully withdrew.
Soon, three exquisite dishes were served. Su Ming diligently said to Irelia Senior.
“Senior, eat while it’s hot.”
“Thank you.”
Irelia Senior raised her left hand to gently tuck a strand of hair behind her ear, then picked up her knife and fork, gently cut a piece, and put it into her mouth.
“Senior, which Legion are you serving in?”
Su Ming also picked up his chopsticks, picked up a tender piece of beef, and chatted while eating.
“I’m serving in the First Legion.”
“Oh, that’s good.”
“Junior, why are you asking this? Is there something you want to say?”
Irelia Senior gazed at Su Ming and asked.
Su Ming was also very conflicted at the moment, wondering whether to probe. If he was right, he would probably be in for a lot of trouble later.
He pondered for a moment, then chuckled and said.
“It’s like this: I have a Level 4 Battleship, Wind Movement, but no captain to command it. Your command in the Three School League, Senior, really impressed me, so I’d like to invite you to be the captain of Wind Movement.”
Upon hearing Su Ming’s words, a hint of unnaturalness appeared on Irelia Senior’s face, but it quickly returned to normal.
She smiled and said to Su Ming.
“Thank you for the invitation, Junior, but I’m very sorry, my current position has too many responsibilities, and I really can’t get away. You should find someone else suitable.”
“That’s truly a pity.”
Su Ming replied with great regret.
Then, the two quietly began to eat. During this time, Su Ming would occasionally steal glances at Irelia Senior.
Irelia Senior’s brows also subtly twitched.
After a long while, just as they were almost finished with their meal, Irelia Senior checked the time on her wristband and then stood up to bid farewell to Su Ming.
“Junior Su Ming, thank you for your hospitality. I have other matters to attend to, so I’ll take my leave first.”
“Alright, take care.”
Su Ming replied politely.
Irelia Senior nodded slightly and then turned to leave.
At this moment, Su Ming suddenly called out.
“Wait a moment, Senior!”
Irelia Senior immediately stopped, took a deep breath, and slowly turned to look at Su Ming.
“Junior, is there anything else?”
“Senior, could you give me your contact information?”
Su Ming asked with a smile.
Irelia Senior gazed at Su Ming, her expression calm, and said.
“Okay!”
Su Ming suddenly felt a chill down his spine, as if he had gone a bit too far.
However, he could only brace himself and say.
“Senior, you say it, I’ll write it down.”
“6120”
Irelia Senior spoke a string of numbers.
“I’ve got it down.”
“Then I’m leaving.”
“I’ll see you out!”
Su Ming replied diligently.
“No need.”
Irelia Senior turned and left directly.
Su Ming looked at Irelia Senior’s departing back, smiled, and then called out.
“Check, please!”
A moment later, Su Ming walked out of the restaurant with his hands behind his back, feeling pleased, and strolled through the bustling streets towards the Night Banquet Hall.
At this moment, Su Ming keenly sensed that someone was following him. He immediately changed his direction of walking and headed towards a street with less foot traffic.
He wound around, turning left and right, and finally turned into an inconspicuous alley.
Just then, a middle-aged man in a gray trench coat and hat followed him in, only to run head-on into Su Ming.
The middle-aged man’s expression froze for a moment, and he was about to speak.
Su Ming touched the ground with the tip of his foot, swiftly like the wind, and attacked the middle-aged man, his right hand forming a fist and smashing down fiercely.
The middle-aged man immediately raised his arm to block!
Crack!
Accompanied by the crisp sound of bones breaking, the middle-aged man retreated rapidly, his face showing extreme pain.
Su Ming’s eyes were cold. He bent down and charged forward.
“Stop, don’t hit me!”
The middle-aged man shouted, his face changing drastically.
Su Ming heard the other party’s shout, then stopped and asked coldly.
“Who are you? Why are you following me?”
“Mr. Su Ming, please don’t misunderstand, I have no ill intentions. The reason I followed you is because my master wants to see you.”
The middle-aged man said, enduring the pain.
“Who is your master?”
Su Ming narrowed his eyes and asked.
“I cannot say, but you definitely know him. Please follow me.”
The middle-aged man sincerely said to Su Ming.
Su Ming pondered for a moment after hearing this, and finally said.
“Alright, lead the way!”
“Excellent! Please follow me.”
The middle-aged man was overjoyed and quickly led Su Ming away.
Not long after, the middle-aged man led Su Ming to the entrance of an inconspicuous private residence.
The entire residence was not large, with a small courtyard outside and a two-and-a-half-story villa inside.
This entire area was filled with such private residences.
The middle-aged man knocked on the door, and his knocking was very rhythmic, with varying degrees of force.
Creak!
The door immediately opened.
A rather young maid bowed respectfully to Su Ming.
“Please come in, my master has been waiting for a long time.”
Su Ming walked in expressionlessly.
The maid led Su Ming through the courtyard, into the villa, and to the main hall.
In the spacious hall, there was a tea table, and a middle-aged man was sitting at the tea table.
Su Ming’s face showed a hint of surprise when he saw the person waiting, then he respectfully greeted him.
“Lord Ohmid.”
This middle-aged man was none other than Ohmid, Shadr’s father.
“Mr. Su Ming, please sit!”
Ohmid politely said to Su Ming.
“Okay!”
Su Ming then walked to Ohmid and sat down.
Ohmid picked up the teapot and poured a cup of clear tea for Su Ming, then said.
“I apologize, Mr. Su Ming, for inviting you in this manner. It was indeed a bit abrupt.”
“I understand, but I don’t know, Lord Ohmid, why have you invited me here?”
Su Ming replied calmly.
Ohmid looked at Su Ming and said seriously.
“Mr. Su Ming, let’s be frank. The reason you approached my son must have been at the Federation’s behest, right?”
Upon hearing Ohmid’s words, Su Ming felt a little helpless for a moment. Did this guy misunderstand something? His approach to Shadr was purely coincidental.
Are these princes always pondering conspiracy theories and overthinking things?
Seeing Su Ming remain silent, Ohmid smiled and said.
“Mr. Su Ming, don’t be nervous. I’m not here to question you today. I just hope you can help me introduce the Federation.”
Upon hearing Ohmid’s words, Su Ming’s thoughts raced, then he chuckled and said.
“Nothing can be hidden from Lord Ohmid, indeed. However, I’m a little unclear, the Federation’s envoy is at the Twin Hotel, why don’t you directly visit them?”
Su Ming did not directly agree to Ohmid but instead questioned him back.
Ohmid, facing Su Ming’s question, showed no displeasure. Instead, he explained with a serious expression.
“That’s because I don’t trust them. I only trust you. Although you approached my son with a purpose, it’s precisely because of your existence that my son’s life was saved.”
“Thank you for your trust, Lord Ohmid. However, I’m very curious, why do you suddenly want to contact the Federation? Is it for this Haunted Star, to contend for the position of Crown Prince? If I remember correctly, you have always been one to avoid contention.”
Su Ming asked curiously.
“I indeed used to avoid contention, but ever since my eighth brother, who explicitly stated he wouldn’t contend, accidentally fell down the stairs and died, and after my son almost lost his life, I had no choice but to contend.”
“I understand.”
“So, Mr. Su Ming, please help me introduce a reliable dignitary. There will be a generous reward once the matter is settled.”
Ohmid said to Su Ming.
“Alright, wait for me here. I’ll go back and report to that dignitary.”
Su Ming then stood up and said.
This is a golden opportunity! As long as he connects the two lines, this matter will be settled. It’s simply too easy.
“Thank you very much.”
Ohmid replied with great gratitude.
“You’re welcome.”
Su Ming immediately turned and left.
A long time later, Su Ming hurriedly returned to the Twin Hotel and walked directly towards Vice City Lord Okens’s room.
When he reached the door of Vice City Lord Okens’s room, the two security officers blocked Su Ming and said.
“General!”
“I have something important to see Lord Okins about.”
“Apologies, General, Lord Okins is not in.”
“Not in? Where did he go?”
Su Ming’s brows immediately furrowed, and a very bad premonition lingered in his mind.
“We cannot tell you that.”
The two officers shook their heads and replied.
Just as Su Ming was in a difficult situation, General Tai Tate happened to walk over, and he asked curiously.
“Su Ming, what are you doing here?”
“General, I have an urgent matter to see Lord Okins about, but they said Lord Okins is not in.”
“That’s right, he’s not in. Not long ago, Third Prince Merritt sent his confidant to invite City Lord Okins and Alec De for a discussion.”
General Tai Tate explained to Su Ming.
“Oh no! General Tai Tate, do you have Lord Okins’s contact information?”
Su Ming’s face immediately changed slightly upon hearing General Tai Tate’s words. Was this a sign of being intercepted?
“Yes!”
“Please give it to me.”
“Alright!”
General Tai Tate then sent Vice City Lord Okens’s contact information to Su Ming.
Su Ming then began to compose a message.
—
Inside an ancient and elegant, quiet tea room.
On a tea table made of ebony, with a color as deep as night and fine grain.
Prince Merritt, dressed in a loose robe, picked up an exquisite purple clay teapot and elegantly poured two cups of clear tea, one for Alec De and one for Okins.
“This is my treasured snow tea. Please, both of you, have a taste.”
Alec De and Okins took a sip, nodded slightly, and said.
“Not bad!”
“Both of you, please don’t laugh at me, but I’ve actually longed for the Federation since I was a child. It’s just that I never had the opportunity to go.”
Prince Merritt said with a smile.
“Prince Merritt, after this grand ceremony, you are welcome to visit the Federation anytime.”
Okins replied politely.
“Then I might have to bother you two at that time.”
Merritt looked at Vice City Lord Okens and smiled brightly.
“No problem.”
Okins calmly replied.
At this moment, Okins’s wristband suddenly vibrated, and a message popped up.
He lowered his head, glanced at it, and then sent an address to Su Ming. Afterward, he picked up his teacup, gently tilted it over the tea tray, and said apologetically to Prince Merritt,
“Sorry, Prince Merritt, I suddenly have an urgent matter to attend to.”
“Vice City Lord Okens, you’ve only just arrived and haven’t even had a few cups of tea. Won’t you stay a little longer?”
Prince Merritt said, smiling broadly as he tried to persuade him to stay.
“It’s not that, it’s just an urgent matter at home that I must rush back to handle. Let Commander Alec De accompany you and drink slowly.”
Okins replied with a smile.
Prince Merritt’s eyes flickered, then he said with a smile,
“Alright then, take care.”
“Please excuse me.”
Okins nodded slightly, then stood up and turned to leave.
Soon, only Prince Merritt and Commander Alec De remained in the tea room.
At this moment, Prince Merritt suddenly revealed a brilliant smile and said to Commander Alec De,
“Commander Alec De, there are no outsiders here now, only you and I. You’ve been stationed in Guangying Star Sea for so many years, and you know the situation here better than anyone. I won’t be polite.”
Upon hearing Prince Merritt’s words, Alec De frowned and said,
“Speak!”
“I want the Federation to fully support me in becoming the Crown Prince and ascending the throne!”
Prince Merritt said directly, getting straight to the point.
“If I’m not mistaken, haven’t you already received support from the Apocalypse Divine Kingdom? Are you planning to find another backer?”
Alec De looked at Prince Merritt and asked unceremoniously.
“That’s right. As the saying goes, people strive for higher places, and water flows to lower places! Although the Apocalypse Divine Kingdom is strong, how can it compare to the Federation?”
Prince Merritt laid his cards on the table very frankly.
“That’s true, but what kind of bargaining chip can you offer?”
Alec De’s expression shifted, and he spoke coldly.
“As long as you can get the Federation to fully support me in ascending the throne, I can not only guarantee all the existing interests of the Federation but also offer an additional 10% to you personally, Commander, and open the door for you!”
Prince Merritt directly promised Alec De.
Upon hearing Prince Merritt’s words, Alec De’s heart surged like a stormy sea.
He had seen all sorts of storms in his life and experienced countless benefits and temptations.
But the benefits this guy promised completely shocked him; these were front-line level benefits. Commander Alec De had never seen so much money in his life.
Prince Merritt looked at the fluctuating expression of Alec De and knew that he was tempted, so he continued to speak.
“Commander Alec De, you should know very well that I always keep my word, and the promises I make can be fulfilled. You’ve lived here for most of your life, and even if you haven’t contributed, you’ve worked hard. Shouldn’t you also consider yourself? And who ascends to power doesn’t matter, right? Don’t you agree with what I’m saying?”
Commander Alec De looked at Prince Merritt and realized that this guy was someone who could achieve great things. He was not only meticulous but also extremely generous. He then praised him, saying,
“Prince Merritt, you’ve truly made me look at you in a new light today. If the other princes had your courage, they would have succeeded long ago!”
“Thank you for the praise, Commander Alec De. I toast you with a cup of tea.”
Prince Merritt showed a brilliant smile and raised his teacup.
“Good!”
Alec De nodded in response.
On the other side, Su Ming borrowed a black hovercar and drove towards the Muyin Club.
As he approached the Muyin Club, he saw Vice City Lord Okens standing at the entrance of the club from afar, accompanied by two bodyguards in black suits and sunglasses.
Su Ming immediately slowed down and parked his car in front of Vice City Lord Okens.
Okins then said to the two bodyguards behind him,
“You don’t need to follow me. Su Ming will be responsible for my safety.”
“Yes!”
The two bodyguards immediately responded.
Vice City Lord Okens then opened the car door and sat in the front passenger seat.
Su Ming quickly drove away.
At this moment, Okins asked Su Ming in a deep voice,
“What’s the important matter?”
“I have already contacted Seventh Prince Omid, and he wants to meet you in person to discuss cooperation.”
Su Ming simply replied to Vice City Lord Okens.
“Well done!”
Upon hearing Su Ming’s words, Okins’s tense expression relaxed slightly, and he praised him with a smile.
“Thank you for the praise, sir.”
Su Ming said with a smile.
Just then, Su Ming suddenly saw a black hovercar in his rearview mirror that seemed to be following him.
He then suddenly made an illegal left turn at the next intersection, and the other party also turned left.
Su Ming said with a solemn expression,
“Vice City Lord Okens, we are being followed.”
“Shake them off.”
Okins’s heart immediately sank.
Su Ming immediately pressed harder on the accelerator, controlling the hovercar to speed away, constantly changing direction, and darting through the turbulent traffic.
The trailing black hovercar followed closely without hesitation.
Su Ming tried several times but couldn’t shake them off. The other party not only had excellent skills but was also very familiar with the entire area.
Okins, seeing that Su Ming hadn’t shaken them off, asked somewhat worriedly,
“Can you handle it?”
“Yes, please fasten your seatbelt, sir.”
Su Ming’s eyes narrowed, and he said to Okins.
Upon hearing Su Ming’s words, Okins also quickly fastened his seatbelt.
At this moment, Su Ming suddenly slammed on the brakes, and the hovercar immediately slowed down and stopped.
Okins was also bewildered, wondering what the hell was going on.
“Sir, please get out of the car.”
Su Ming said to Okins, then opened the car door and got out.
Okins quickly unbuckled his seatbelt and followed him out of the car.
Su Ming then led Okins into a nearby alley.
At this moment, the trailing black hovercar also drove up and stopped. A burly man in a black suit got out of the car and ran into the alley.
At this moment, Su Ming led Okins and turned into a small path on the right.
The burly man immediately followed. Just as he was about to turn right,
A fist came flying, hitting him squarely in the face, and the burly man immediately fell to the ground in response.
Su Ming blew on his fist and said,
“Done.”
Okins looked at this scene, somewhat speechless.
“Sir, please follow me.”
Su Ming said with a smile to Okins.
“Okay!”
Okins nodded.
Su Ming then led him, winding through the alley, and soon arrived in front of a wall.
Okins looked at Su Ming, bewildered. Su Ming took a few steps back, then accelerated and rushed up, climbing the wall in a few movements, and extended his hand to Okins, saying,
“Come up, sir.”
Okins’s mouth twitched as he extended his hand to Su Ming.
Inside the private residence’s main hall.
Ohmid was sitting and making tea when he heard an unusual sound from the courtyard.
He turned his head and saw Su Ming and Okins climbing over the wall.
Ohmid quickly stood up, tidied his clothes, and walked out to greet them.
Su Ming saw Ohmid come out and immediately introduced the two of them.
“This is Seventh Prince Omid, and Prince Ohmid, this is Vice City Lord Okens of our Starlight City.”
Ohmid then extended his hand to shake hands with Vice City Lord Okens, saying very politely,
“Vice City Lord Okens, please come in!”
“Okay!”
Okins nodded slightly and followed Ohmid inside.
Soon, the three of them—Su Ming, Okins, and Ohmid—arrived in the living room. The entire living room was empty, with no one serving them.
“Vice City Lord Okens, please sit!”
Ohmid extended his hand and politely said to Okins.
Su Ming quickly stepped forward to pull out a chair, and Okins calmly sat down.
At this moment, Su Ming whispered into Okins’s ear,
“Vice City Lord Okens, I’ll withdraw first.”
It was clear that the two would soon discuss cooperation, and such matters were always top secret.
“No need, just sit and listen.”
Okins replied calmly.
Upon hearing Okins’s words, Su Ming was very surprised but still respectfully replied,
“Yes!”
Ohmid couldn’t help but take another look at Su Ming, confirming that he had not misjudged him.
At this moment, Okins looked at Prince Ohmid and said,
“Prince Ohmid, I heard from Su Ming that you wanted to see me?”
“That’s right, Vice City Lord Okens, I’ve long heard of your esteemed name and wanted to meet you.”
“You’re too kind. I’m a straightforward person, Prince Ohmid, so please speak your mind directly.”
“Since Vice City Lord Okens is so straightforward, I won’t beat around the bush. I want the Federation to fully support me.”
Ohmid replied frankly.
After hearing Ohmid’s words, Okins’s eyes flickered, and he said,
“Prince Ohmid, do you know where I just came from?”
“I’m not sure, please elaborate.”
Ohmid replied in a deep voice.
“I just came from Third Prince Merritt. May I ask why the Federation should support you? What benefits can you offer the Federation? What are your bargaining chips and capital?”
Okins asked very assertively.
Su Ming watched this scene without a word, remaining silent throughout.
It was clear that the two were beginning negotiations. Although the Federation urgently needed to support a prince, if this prince had no real ability or capital, then the Federation would have to bear very high risks.
This would require a very high return. If the benefits could not outweigh the risks, Okins would not agree.
Ohmid appeared very calm in the face of Okins’s questioning.
“Vice City Lord Okens, do you know why I’ve always been dormant and never sought support from other forces?”
“Oh, why?”
“That’s because I wanted to gain the support of the Federation.”
Ohmid replied very clearly.
In fact, he had always favored the Federation, but the Federation had always supported the State Lord and simply didn’t need to support a prince, so he could only wait patiently.
Okins was very surprised after hearing Ohmid’s words, but mere words would not be enough to persuade him.
“Prince Ohmid, I appreciate your admiration for the Federation, but you still haven’t answered my question.”
“I have two bargaining chips. The first chip is that Commander Yude Ka of the Shabask Kingdom’s most elite Imperial Guard, the Black Watcher Legion, is my man.”
Ohmid said solemnly.
Okins and Su Ming both showed shocked expressions upon hearing Ohmid’s words.
They hadn’t expected this unassuming Seventh Prince to have gained control of the Black Watcher Legion of the Shabask Kingdom.
This legion was no joke; its soldiers were handpicked from the Shabask Kingdom, and every one of them was an elite!
Most importantly, the ships and weapons that armed this force were top-tier.
Ohmid then continued to speak to the two of them.
“My second chip is that I have a spare key and authorization for the Devourer.”
Okins’s eyelids twitched at this. He realized that the intelligence was wrong; everyone had misjudged this guy.
He took a deep breath and said,
“Remarkable. I never imagined that someone with such great bargaining chips would be so low-key.”
“Caution is the parent of safety.”
“Alright, I admit you have enough bargaining chips, but what benefits can the Federation gain by supporting your ascension?”
Okins asked, gazing at Ohmid.
“All existing benefits will remain the same. The 10% profit from Haunted Star will be given to you upon my ascension. Besides that, I will always side with you. As for any more benefits, I apologize, but I cannot provide them. Don’t assume the Shabask Kingdom still holds so much profit; we have various high maintenance costs to bear. In contrast, you receive pure profit. If we were to further divide it with you, we would not be able to make ends meet and would eventually face problems. I believe, Vice City Lord Okens, you understand the principle of a steady stream.”
Ohmid said very rationally.
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