Chapter 426: Visit and Request

Just as the situation in the Blue Lava Estate gradually stabilized, a piece of news came from the Red Spirit Estate.”

The Red Spirit Lord Josh, who was. .h.i.t hard in the Dark Moon in the war of lords, suddenly started a battle. He subdued his son, Kanita, who attempted to murder him, and prevented a rebellion to seize power.

The Great Demon King Solana under Kanita, who had been recovering from his wounds, surrendered, Snowden died, and the rest of the party members surrendered. As for Kanita, Josh subdued him and controlled him with secret technique; he could no longer rebel.

This kind of killing and power struggle between father and son was not uncommon in the Demon Realm, but it was commendable that Josh could resist his son in this situation. No doubt, the older, the wiser.

In this incident, an unexpected person played a key role. It was Royce who was previously under Joseph’s command.

Royce was the heir of the Kunda Family, whose surname had been taken by Josh because his father, Khan, refused to hand over some treasures and was reduced to a slave by Josh. However, Royce actually endured the humiliation and was secretly ordered by Josh to spy by Joseph’s side. He had been monitoring Joseph’s actions and had the insight of all actions including Joseph’s whistleblowing to the capital. After Joseph’s collapse, Royce turned his side to Kanita, and he became the biggest contributor to Josh’s exposure of Kanita’s conspiracy.

Josh praised Royce for his contribution and named him the estate’s garrison guard deputy commander. The current commander was the subdued Kanita. The deputy commander Royce also had supervisory duties.

Not only that, Royce’s family members and descendants who lost their glory and became slaves were also pardoned and regained the Kunda surname. As for his illegitimate son, Ledo, who ratted and caused the destruction of his father and the entire Kunda Family; that was also Joseph’s “partner-in-crime”, was personally beheaded by Royce, who had become a Higher Demon.

After regaining power, Josh still used the name of recuperating his injuries to explain things in simple terms. Any matters were conveyed by Kanita or Royce. His occasional appearance revealed an ill look with severely reduced strength, but no one dared to underestimate this “seriously ill” old fox.

Some people even speculate that Josh, who had a scheming mind, used this kind of appearance so that the Dark Moon would overlook him, but he was secretly gathering his power to prepare for revenge.

As the first lord who actively responded and invested 1 billion black crystal coins at the lord meetings, Josh did not constantly ask the capital for the repayment of the fundraising funds like Kanita did. Instead, he showed a confident att.i.tude towards the regent. He also did various propaganda to ask all estates to ignore the rumors and trust the promise of the regent. Such action had been highly appreciated by the capital.

However, in a sense, as time went by and the repayment date approached, this att.i.tude of conviction was more terrible than direct reminders.

Chen Rui received the news in the Dark Shadow Empire because he was accompanying Shea to visit the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate. Athena stayed in the Dark Moon this time. Zola, who got the silver box, was keener on studying the knowledge of the ancient runes slabs. She happened to preside over the Dark Moon with Krobelus. On the other hand, Alice went with her sister this time; this gave Kia the opportunity to accompany them.

(Little maid: Finally it’s my turn.)

In order to get rid of the surveillance of the “Governance a.s.sociation”, Paglio continued to accompany Chen Rui on the journey. Roman was forced to stay in the Dark Moon again for the simple reason that he lacked strength. However, under the guidance of Isabella, Roman was about to fully integrate the power of the evil eye tyrant. Once the integration completed, he could reach the Demon Emperor level. It was just that he relied on the power of his lifelong companion beast to reach the Demon Emperor level. Every step in the future would be quite difficult unless there was a miraculous encounter. This was equivalent to synchronous training of the lifelong companion beast and his body. The advantage was that his power would be better than opponents of the same level.

The Dark Moon’s friendly visit headed by Shea received the highest grade welcome and treatment in the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate. Since the cooperation between the 2 estates, the effect of land improvement in the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate had been very obvious. There was a qualitative change in large areas of barren land, the crops could be planted smoothly, and the growth momentum was ideal. The residents of the estate all cheered joyfully.

In fact, in order to avoid exposing the secrets of magic dust, Old Gauss had developed a kind of magic fertilizer mixed with some dust. The formula of these fertilizers was extremely complex but it was for the purpose of concealing. Of course, it also had the effect of improving the land, but it was much inferior to the Dark Moon. In the Dark Moon’s secret food base, many top-quality plantations were made with Chen Rui’s refined magic dust in the Super System. The direct transformation effect was far more than that of ordinary magic dust.

Even so, it was enough to make the Dark Shadow Empire’s most barren estate, the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate, had a complete turnaround. Chen Rui also fulfilled his promise to “Iciz” this time. He redesigned and planned the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate City using the drawings provided by General Khan, including some special buildings and a magic water system. Of course, a considerable part of this “design” was copied from the floor plan of a familiar city in another world. These designs and plans amazed General Khan. The b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate probably would be greatly transformed in the next step.

The battle ball was naturally the most popular among the soldiers and civilians of the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate. The battle ball, which was once popular because of the rise of the Dark Moon, officially kicked off in the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate now. The venue and the ball were of the most “authentic” specification. After the players and referees undergo professional training, they immediately gave people an amazing feeling.

The battle ball trend centered around the estate and quickly spread to the surrounding area. For this reason, Khan specially expanded the small arena of the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate and added some temporary stadiums. Even so, it still could not meet the increasing demand. In Chen Rui’s blueprint for the future city of the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate, there were several stadium designs. Today was the third day of Shea’s visit to the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate. The most exciting battle ball game of the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate was taking place at the arena. The Dark Moon’s Red Blood Team vs. b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate’s Wolf Fangs Team. General Crawford’s only son, Monroe, who used to study the battle ball at the Dark Moon and several accompanying learners appeared in the Wolf Fangs Team representing the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate this time.

This was currently the strongest Higher Demon group. The Higher Demon’s compet.i.tion was faster and more intense with relatively stronger control and technology. Of course, the magic circle of the stadium was also more restrictive. There would be no scenes that the audience couldn’t see clearly.

The friendly match was one of the exchanges of Shea’s visit. After the news spread, many capital fans, including some upper-cla.s.s n.o.bles, came to the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate in advance, causing the local hotel to be almost full. The limited match tickets skyrocketed to a terrifying price.

A whistle sounded and the game started. Although there were several main players like Monroe, the game couldn’t be won by 1 or 2 people. Soon, the Red Blood Team of the Dark Moon had the upper hand. Whether it was individual or overall cooperation, their great strength amazed the audience. It turns out that the ball could still be played this way!

As the birthplace of battle ball, it was reasonable for the Dark Moon to be superior in strength, but the audience of that b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate was still desperately cheering for their team. Even after the home team had lost 2 goals in a row, their enthusiasm did not dampen.

As a midfielder, Monroe shouted to remind his teammates while organizing an effective offense. He launched the most threatening defensive counterattack, but unfortunately, his teammate hit the goal post, and the audience suddenly bemoaned. The Dark Moon took the opportunity to counterattack and scored again. 3-0.

Monroe calmly organized his teammates to enhance compress the defense. After his tackle was successful, he drove the ball alone to surpa.s.s the opposing defenders. When several of the Dark Moon’s defenders quickly came back to cover the defense and pincered him, Monroe unexpectedly pa.s.sed the ball to the teammate who got in. This time, his teammate lived up to Monroe’s pa.s.s and scored with a powerful shot.

In an instant, the entire arena was exhilarated. Almost all the audience cheered. Many people shouted the names of Monroe and the goal scorer. Some female fans even took off their s.h.i.+rts boldly to celebrate; the 2 bouncing b.a.l.l.s became a beautiful sight in the arena. The fanaticism was no less than the fans in Chen Rui’s other world.

General Crawford nodded secretly as he watched. His eyes flashed with relief. There shouldn’t be much hope about the outcome of the game. The significance of the goal itself was actually limited. The calmness of his son in the field, his lack of greed for credits at the end, his trust in teammates and the teamwork spirit were commendable. If he was still the arrogant and prideful genius boy like before, Crawford would definitely not see this kind of situation. It seemed that he had indeed gained a lot in the past few months at the Dark Moon.

The game was finally over. The Dark Moon’s Red Blood Team intentionally gave some opportunities at the end, allowing the Wolf Fangs Team to score 2 more goals. The final result was still fixed at 7-3. Although their team lost, the audience of b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate was quite satisfied that they were able to score 3 times against the Dark Moon’s; they felt that it was a worthwhile trip. There would be a friendly match in the Intermediate Demon group tomorrow, and the excitement at that time could also be imagined.

A group of people returned to the lord’s mansion. Crawford specially invited Shea and Chen Rui to the council hall.

“Thanks to the Dark Moon players for bringing such a wonderful game to the people of the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate.” Crawford said with a smile, “By the way, I specially invited a few royal chefs from the capital to the banquet tonight. Princess Shea and all the guests will taste the most delicious specialties of our Dark Shadow Empire.” Shea nodded politely, “Well, I look forward to it.”

“By the way, Your Highness has come to my b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate for 3 days and visited many places. Do you have any suggestions? Please don’t hesitate to advise.” Crawford said this, but he turned his gaze on that human financial officer. Princess Royal of the Dark Moon is indeed an excellent leader with talent and makes good use of people. The human financial officer is the most outstanding representative among the capable officers. Almost all of the Dark Moon’s economic development is due to his planning.

“I don’t dare to advise. Chen Rui, if you have any ideas, you might as well share it.” Shea understood what Crawford meant and glanced at Chen Rui.

Seeing the expectant look of the 2 lords, Chen Rui smiled bitterly in his heart. I am just a crossover of another world. I’m a little clever at best. Most of the things are plagiarised. I’m definitely not the so-called capable officer. Okay, I’ll just keep plagiarising…

“Actually, I have no good idea, but judging from the popularity of today’s event, the current battle ball has considerable influential power in the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate, even the surrounding estates and your empire capital are fascinated by it.

Then we might as well make the best out of this. We can use the battle ball to expand the influence of the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate. This influential power will drive rapid economic development. Didn’t the general notice that in the past few days of the game, people from all walks of life in the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate seem to have benefited a lot?” “Sir Chen Rui’s meaning is to organize more games to promote economic development?” “It’s not about organizing more, but every game should be exciting. It can be a friendly match between civilians and the military, or contests between cities like ours today. When there are more cities with teams in the future, we can also host the most popular leagues, but it’s too early to talk about this now. What I mean is that you can now use the battle ball itself to increase considerable income. In addition to the income from tickets and gambling, you can also open a battle ball merchandise store.

Just before visiting your estate, the Dark Moon’s battle ball merchandise store has been completed and opened. It mainly sells team jerseys, team emblems, team flags, accessories, sculptures, and various cheering magic objects to all fans. We can also let the players who are loved by everyone to sign items and sell in limited quant.i.ties… This kind of battle ball merchandise store can be directly operated by the official or authorized to limited private chain stores. From the current situation of the Dark Shadow and Fallen Angel Empire, the popularity of battle ball is already a kind of trend. It is likely to spread to the entire Demon Realm in the future. I believe I don’t need to elaborate to the general about the direct income and huge economic benefits that will be brought by then.” Crawford listened carefully, and kept nodding. The secretary at the side was hastily recording. He showed admiration at the end and said, “If it weren’t for Princess Shea, I would like to win over Sir Chen Rui. Your Highness can have such internal talent, it is really enviable. Thank you sir for your valuable suggestions. I will start preparations for this battle ball merchandise store immediately!”

“General, you have overpraised me. Your courage is really admirable.” Chen Rui was a little embarra.s.sed. I am just copying the ideas from the other world, it is indeed an exaggeration.

The 2 parties exchanged some courtesies, then Crawford readily agreed to Shea’s various requests for further cooperation. After he gestured at the secretary, the secretary left with several officers.

Crawford seemed hesitant, “There is 1 more thing. It is a bit difficult to tell, but it is related to the most important interests of the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate, so I still plan to say it. Princess Royal Highness, please don’t hesitate to help.”

Shea and Chen Rui glanced at each other, and said together, “General, please go ahead. Whether it is the cooperative relations.h.i.+p between the 2 places or our personal friends.h.i.+p, I will try my best to help.”

“Your Highness, to be honest, at the north of the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate, there is a misty swamp in the Black Iron Mountain Range which stretches across the Dark Shadow Empire and b.l.o.o.d.y Empire. There is a Crystal Valley in the swamp.” Chen Rui’s heart moved, and Crawford continued to say, “Under the Crystal Valley, there is a very large crystal ore vein. It was discovered only recently. This will become the most important resource of the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate.”

Crystal ore vein? Shea was slightly intrigued. Crystal ore is the universal magic crystal coin of the Demon Realm. It can be used as general currency and high-end magic crystal material according to the purity. The mineral vein of crystal ore symbolizes abundant wealth. I never thought that there is actually a “large” crystal ore vein under the barren land like b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate!

This crystal ore vein was the one Chen Rui told Catherine back then. He seemed to even cheated a kiss from the empress. However, crystal mine is the biggest secret of an estate and an important secret of the Dark Shadow Empire. Although the Dark Moon and Crawford have a close friends.h.i.+p now, he shouldn’t confide it. What is his request?

Crawford sighed and said, “The devil fruit that Your Highness presented to me at the auction last time enabled me to finally break through the Demon Emperor intermediate stage after being stuck for many years. Moreover, my only son, Monroe, has made great progress in the Dark Moon thanks to Your Highness’ care. I’m a soldier, so I’m not good at expressing grat.i.tude in words. I, Crawford. Tevez remembers this friends.h.i.+p of Your Highness. Crystal mine vein is one of the top secrets of the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate, and Her Majesty Catherine at the capital also attaches great importance to this resource. I have issued a military order to guarantee that the preliminary mining work will be completed within the specified time and hand in a certain amount of crystal ore. However, there are some difficulties in the mining process. If it cannot be solved, the empress request cannot be completed on time. According to the military order, I will resign from all posts in the estate and the military…”

Shea and Chen Rui were secretly surprised. Through this series of cooperation, Crawford was an important figure in the military. He had established a close friends.h.i.+p with the Dark Moon and Shea. Currently, he was the most suitable candidate for cooperation with the Dark Shadow Empire. Once he was forced to resign and someone else replaced him as the lord of the b.l.o.o.d.y Vine Flower Estate, perhaps unpredictable things would happen, which was naturally quite detrimental to the Dark Moon.

Shea nodded knowingly, “General, it’s only about our personal relations.h.i.+p now. If you need my help, just let me know.”

Crawford nodded, “Then I’ll make it clear. There seems to be a strange magic circle laid in the crystal mine vein, so we cannot mine it, and many miners have been lost. At that time, I sent many people to investigate, but we still couldn’t figure out the cause of it. Not long ago, I went to the capital to invite Master Rummenigge, my good friend at the Mechanic a.s.sociation. However, after the master entered the crystal mine vein, he actually disappeared, and his whereabouts are still unknown. I can hardly tell his family about this. I am badly battered because of this crystal mine. I am really helpless, I wonder if Princess Royal Highness can find ways to help me?”

Chen Rui felt puzzled. By right, as one of the important bases of Bloodfall, Crystal Valley has completely collapsed after Catherine defeated the 3 Demon Overlords, so there should be no danger. Why is there such a strange incident?

The Master Rummenigge mentioned by Crawford was Chen Rui’s old acquaintance. When Chen Rui was partic.i.p.ating in the Dark Shadow Empire’s mechanic contest as “Arthur”, he received a lot of care from Rummenigge. Rummenigge gave him basic mechanics books and a master-recommended badge to pa.s.s the preliminary contest. Later, Chen Rui was challenged by Master Leo during the contest. It was Master Rummenigge and Master Xhosa who came forward to thwart Leo’s challenge.

Even after Chen Rui officially became a mechanic master, Rummenigge took the initiative to give Chen Rui his time to study at the ancient magic tower.

Although Master Rummenigge also had the initial intention of drawing in talents for the Dark Shadow Empire, Chen Rui’s principle was to reciprocate kindness by folds. Rummenigge was missing in the crystal mine vein now, so Chen Rui should rescue him for both official and private reasons.

It seems like it’s time to revisit the old place, Crystal Valley.

Who was setting up the magical circle there? Was Jacob sneaking back to his lair??