Chapter 222

Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation

Ji Chen closed his eyes, lost in contemplation for a moment. When he finally opened them, it was as if he was observing the stars in the night sky. His voice, calm and profound, resonated.

“Since that’s the case, the Crown of the Ocean is willing to help you. But please don’t forget the words you’ve spoken here.”

Upon hearing this, a hint of joy appeared on Monica’s face, her expression resolute. “Please rest assured, Lord Ji Chen. The Valencia Family will surely uphold our promise, or else we shall incur the wrath of the divine beings!”

Ji Chen nodded. In a world that had seen the existence of divine beings, the weight of this oath could not be underestimated. He felt a slight ease in his heart.

He continued, “You recently sought refuge in the Stormy Sea. There might still be pursuers outside, so it’s best for you to stay on the New Moon Islands for a few days until the turmoil settles. It will be safer that way.

The New Moon Islands have unique and rarely seen landscapes. Except for certain restricted areas, you are free to explore and enjoy the rest. 1 will provide you with a guide.”

Though the situation was urgent, Monica understood that leaving hastily would make them more susceptible to being tracked by pursuers. Thus, she nodded obediently upon hearing Ji Chen’s invitation.

“You are right, Your Excellency. In order to safely return and avoid causing you trouble, I know what 1 need to do. Please rest assured.”

After speaking, Monica playfully blinked her eyes, portraying an understanding demeanor.

Observing this, Ji Chen looked at her with a hint of satisfaction and appreciation.

He enjoyed conversing with intelligent individuals. He didn’t need to explain too much; just a few words were enough to make everything clear.

Indeed, she was the daughter of a grand duke. Her determination and intelligence matched her noble status.

At this moment, Monica inquired, “Lord Ji Chen, who will be our guide during these few days? Is it the girl from earlier?”

As she spoke, she looked around. After Anna brought her in, she disappeared.

“It’s not Anina. She has some matters to attend to these days,” Ji Chen shook his head, raising his voice slightly, “Alice.”

“I’m here.”

Alice emerged from a small door beside the hall and stood in line with Monica.

“For these few days, you’ll be responsible for guiding our guests around the island,” Ji Chen instructed.

“I understand.” Alice nodded and saluted with a hand over her chest.

Ji Chen nodded and then turned to Monica. “Considering all you’ve been through today, you must be tired. Allow Alice to take you to your room for some rest. I’ll ensure that your escorts are led to individual rooms for rest by my associates. There’s no need for you to be concerned.”

Upon hearing this, Monica quickly replied, “Of course, I’m very grateful for your hospitality, Your Excellency.”

She then performed a noblewoman’s curtsey before following Alice out.

Watching Alice and Monica disappear behind the closing door, Ji Chen’s posture sagged, and he slumped back in his chair.

After a moment’s thought, he instructed someone to summon Benbo.

He gave the orders with a serious expression.

“Increase the alert level of the Crown of the Ocean these few days. Expand the range of alertness and patrols beyond the Stormy Sea.

Especially, pay attention to any approaching enemy vessels outside. Report immediately if any are detected.

Take note that patrols and vigilance outside should not expose our presence. All activities should remain concealed beneath the surface.”

Seeing the seriousness on his face, Benbo realized the gravity of the situation. He saluted promptly in response.

“Understood, My Lord.”

With that command, the defensive measures on the New Moon Islands were significantly heightened.

Several patrols, composed of Naga Berserkers, Dragon Blood Murlocs, and Lobster Riders, ventured beyond the storm to patrol the seas.

Walking behind Alice, Monica gazed at the girl’s flowing silver hair, like a waterfall, her perfect countenance that could stir the hearts of even women, and her delicate, almost ethereal skin, filling her with envy.

Particularly, the two blue fins on top of her ears piqued her curiosity even more. Could this girl named Alice not be human? Could she belong to some sort of aquatic race?

She was about to voice her question when she saw the ice-cold demeanor on Alice’s face, a coldness that seemed to push people away by miles. It made her nervous.

After pondering for a while, she gathered her courage and wore a smile warm enough to melt ice and snow. She caught up and walked alongside Alice.

“Sister, your name is Alice? It’s such a lovely name. Not only is the name beautiful, but you’re also very pretty. Your flawless skin even makes me feel a bit jealous. Your hair reminds me of the Long River Waterfall outside the city of Terlins. It’s breathtakingly beautiful…”

Alice merely glanced at her from the corner of her eye, her face devoid of any expression. Regardless of how Monica conversed, she showed no sign of acknowledgment.

In Alice’s eyes, aside from her Lord, no one else was worth her attention. She treated colleagues with indifference, let alone this unfamiliar outsider, even if she was supposedly a grand duke’s daughter.

Guiding her to her room was merely a task befitting a host.

Monica, who had been complimenting her all the way, felt disheartened seeing Alice’s continued indifference. She began to doubt whether her cultivated affability and social skills from childhood were genuine.

Soon, the two arrived in front of a room.

Alice opened the door, indicating that it was her room..