Become their wicked yet gentle lord.

The next morning, the top floor of the detached building on the side of Silver Star Nocturne was the private room for Liu Xia and her group.

When Kira woke up on Ryusha's chest, all that remained in her mind was the madness of the previous night and the tearing pain in her lower body.

Looking at the boy's sleeping face, her bent thigh touched something firm, and she finally understood why Ryuka, who already had Kania and two others, still seemed so at ease.

"It's definitely not something a few people can handle. No wonder Kania has been trying to recruit more people. Hiss..."

Kira gasped, then cast a numbing dark spell on herself with her fingers, finally feeling a little better.

At this moment, Ryuka opened her eyes and looked at the brown-skinned beauty pressing down on her, as well as the two firm and beautiful mounds on her chest.

"I told you I'd let it go, but you insisted on making me do it. Did it hurt you terribly?"

Kira pouted. She had thought that Ryusha, a mere boy, couldn't be that powerful, since even Kania and the other two couldn't subdue him. Now she realized that she was the one who was truly weak.

"I don't want to give up so easily... Oh no, it's already this late!"

Kira quickly got up, wanting to leave Ryuka's room and return to her own before everyone else woke up. Although she and Ryuka had already gone this far, she didn't want to join Kania's 'big party' for the time being. For the sake of her usual dignity, she didn't want Kania to find out about this.

When Kira pushed open the door with her soft, limp steps, she was greeted by Kania's ambiguous smile.

"Ah~ so this is what the 'shameful steps the next morning' in romance novels are like."

Kania grinned mischievously, looking at Kira's messy hair and the wrinkles on her silver dress, as she tiptoed in her high heels, thinking that the fact that her clothes weren't torn meant that Ryusha had shown mercy.

"Ugh..." Kira's eyes widened. She was about to run away when she kicked something soft.

It was Hetia. She was asleep on the ground, and upon closer inspection, her dress was somewhat disheveled.

"I came to eavesdrop last night, but I ended up doing it myself and passed out from exhaustion~" Kania glanced at Hetia and explained mischievously.

"Ahhh..." Kira covered her forehead with her hand, her face filled with despair and helplessness. She should have made sure the hotel had better soundproofing. Although she had tried her best to suppress her cries, she couldn't control herself during Ryusha's final thrust, and Hetia, as a knight, had exceptionally good hearing...

"The others...wouldn't they also..." Kira asked Hetia with a guilty look in her eyes.

"Don't worry, this building isn't open to the public, and I dismissed the waiters last night. So, apart from Megan next door, no one else knows about it."

Kania clapped her hands and gave a warm smile.

"As for whether the people in the next building heard it, I can't guarantee that~ After all, for a while, someone's shouting was really loud~"

Kira was too ashamed to listen anymore. She grabbed her high heels and rushed back to her room, followed by the sound of a shower...

In the afternoon, Hetia, as the host, will lead the vacationing guests to the mountains behind the resort for a picnic and camping trip, camping by the cool river flowing down from the snow-capped mountains. Megan will also accompany them at Ryūsha's command. Ryūsha also brought a gift for Hetia, instructing her to send someone to the Snow Spirit Cave to find Melanie and Vitry, who are in seclusion, should anything happen along the way.

Meanwhile, Ryusha, Kania, and Kira rode back to Linhu Town and spread out a pile of documents in the lord's mansion's meeting hall.

The donations have been received, new trade agreements have been reached, and the hotel's future operations are secured. So, how will the money for this project be spent...?

The three of them sat around a pile of documents and began discussing various matters.

First, there are the various data surveys that were completed previously:

The Linhu Territory has Linhu Town, located in the easternmost part of the territory, as its administrative center. It is also the only town-level administrative unit recognized by the Otus Empire with a population exceeding one thousand. It also has three secondary towns and thirty-six villages under its jurisdiction.

The largest town, Linhu, has a registered population of 1298, and its monthly tax revenue, after deducting expenses, amounts to about 20 gold coins.

The three secondary towns are: Ice Flower Town in the northwest, with a population of 794 and a net monthly income of 14 gold coins; Three Rivers Town, due west and closest to Sochi Territory, with a population of 623 and a net monthly income of 13 gold coins; and Blue Mountain Town, to the southwest, with a population of 612 and a net monthly income of 13 gold coins.

The remaining thirty-six villages have populations ranging from dozens to hundreds, totaling 3246 people. Their combined tax revenue is only 35 gold coins, as the villages are generally poorer.

The total indigenous population of the entire Linhu Territory is 6573, with monthly tax revenue of 95 gold coins, amounting to just over 1000 gold coins per year. This is even with the efforts of Liuxia and others in developing trade.

However, the population figure does not include those who are hiding to evade taxes, or private servants and serfs of wealthy families such as landlords. The recent influx of migrant workers is also not included, as registration requires a large number of basic personnel, but the number is estimated to be close to a thousand.

These people are exempt from taxation, and in the near future, they will receive no tax revenue but will instead require financial support and maintenance. If the villages and towns are expanded, the expenditure will be substantial. Mei, have you thought about it? Lin, are you free yet...?

The massive construction projects in Linhu Town had nearly emptied Hetia's savings. Now, including Earl Duke's ransom and recent income, Liuxia and her group still have about two thousand gold coins left…

The average resettlement cost for each new resident, according to Liuxia's projections, is one gold coin per year. Under the tax-free policy for the first three years, the return on investment will take a long time.

“But this is just an economic consideration,” Ryuka said, listening to Kira’s conclusion.

"Population determines the number of peasant soldiers we can conscript in the event of war. Moreover, the more people we receive, the stronger we will become. Based on current data, we can urgently conscript about 2000 peasant soldiers."

For Ryūka, population also determines the number of followers and ability points he can acquire, so it is necessary to bring in population even at a loss.

Territory is important, but personal strength is what Ryukyu is more interested in.

After all, in Liuxia's view, the area of ​​two counties, with a population of less than 10,000, was a vast and sparsely populated wilderness. However, if it weren't for this, Hetia wouldn't have been granted the title of viscount.

Sochi Territory and the surrounding territories are fertile plains with a large population. However, the vast majority are serfs without their own land. Therefore, Ryusha felt that Linhu Territory was like a soft sponge, which could absorb a large population if the methods were appropriate. It all depended on his own abilities.

"Moreover, the revenue we calculated is only ordinary tax revenue, and does not include the various mineral resources and businesses in the plan..." Kania said, looking at the document.

"I understand. What we're doing now is essentially buying people, right?" Kira nodded. Some deals really can't be measured by money on paper.

“That’s right, this is a copy of Anjaberg’s Linhu Territory survey map…”

As Liuxia spoke, she took out a map and spread it on the table.

"How did she get it? She kept it a secret." Kania looked curious. Ryuga only gave her a 'don't ask' look in response.

"According to the markings on the map, Linhu Territory has already surveyed more than thirty metal mines of various sizes, including iron, lead, and tin... There are also two copper mines, one silver mine, one gold mine... and one magic mine..."

As Ryusha finished speaking, Kira and Kania's eyes lit up. Precious metals and magic stones—these were treasures that even great lords coveted! To develop so many mines at the same time, surplus labor was essential, along with enough food to support them… No wonder Ryusha was willing to pay extra to attract more people.

but……

“According to Imperial law, apart from copper mines, the formal development of gold, silver and magical mines requires Imperial approval and strict supervision. Even lords cannot develop them privately… If we report to the Empire, not only will we receive very little of our share, but it may also attract the covetousness of other territories.” Kira slowly expressed her doubts.

Unauthorized mining is a serious crime if discovered. In addition to being stripped of their land and titles, they may also face a swift journey to the gallows and face the goddess.

"Then that depends on our abilities." Liu Xia looked at the data on the paper, her mind quickly racing, and she thought of a possibility.

Chapter 12 Testing the Waters of the Chamber of Commerce Alliance

"Welcome, Mr. Julian. This is our proposed collaboration."

Three days later, in the office, Ryūka invited Hayden's servant Julian to sit across from him at the table and presented him with a plan.

Julian took the document and skimmed through it. It ruled out all the traps set by the Chamber of Commerce. Although it seemed reasonable and fair, it was more like the Linhu Territory had used the Chamber of Commerce's sales channels and influence, leaving them with very little profit.

"I'm afraid Mr. Hayden won't accept such a contract."

Julian shook his head and politely returned the proposal.

For the Chamber of Commerce Federation, if soft tactics don't work, they can resort to hard tactics; they have plenty of ways to squeeze the living space of small territories like Linhu Territory.

After all, due to the restrictions imposed by the Papacy and the Imperial administration, the commercial activities of noble lords were severely limited. Activities such as lending were strictly regulated, and commercial monopolies and speculative practices like buying low and selling high would be subject to reputational criticism. Without cooperating with merchant guilds—a kind of front company—they couldn't create much of a stir in trade.

"Don't jump to conclusions, Mr. Julian."

"I am just a servant and do not deserve such respect."

Ryuka maintained her smile, looking at the stubborn Julian across from her, and slowly threw out her bait.

"I've heard that the Chamber of Commerce has close and established partnerships with many territories in the mining industry... especially in the area of ​​precious metals..."

Ryuka tapped her fingers lightly on the table, observing Julian's changing expression.

“We do have some cooperation with various lords on conventional minerals, but as for precious metals, I don’t understand what you’re talking about.” Julian suddenly changed his cold expression, a faint smile appearing on his face. “After all, I am just a servant.”

Ryuka looked surprised: "Really? But I've heard some interesting rumors. A minor lord in the north has silver doorknobs, and a family in the southwest is obsessed with collecting gold art pieces. It's said that their luxury goods are all purchased from the Chamber of Commerce... I'm very curious, where do they get their money?"

"I don't know about that. If there is any, we are just buying decorations for our guests to choose from. As for their source of income, that's not something we consider."

"That's truly enviable. If our territory could be as wealthy as theirs, we could definitely collaborate more extensively with the Chamber of Commerce, wouldn't we? Well then, thank you for taking the time to come today."

Ryusha stood up and shook hands with Julian, adding at the end, "By the way, please take this proposal back to Mr. Hayden. If there are any disputes, we can discuss them further."

Julian gave Ryūka a deep look, respectfully took the proposal, and left Ryūka's office... (The rest of the text appears to be nonsensical and unrelated to the preceding sentences.)

Back at the inn, Julian took out a wand that resembled a staff and cast several spells in the room. Then, he took out a crystal ball and, with the help of magic, began to report on the day's talks.

After a while, Hayden's not-so-clear voice came from inside the crystal ball.

"So, that kid is implying they have precious metal deposits and want to team up with us, right? And Chang's commercial concessions are his condition?"

“That should be the case. Judging from his hints, Linhu Territory should have gold and silver mines. Should we send people to find them?” Julian replied respectfully.

If the Chamber of Commerce can locate the mineral deposits, they can use this to coerce Linhu Territory into relinquishing a larger share of the profits. If that fails, they can use others to report to the Empire, preventing Linhu Territory from enjoying the benefits exclusively.

Hayden, sitting opposite the crystal ball, pondered for a moment before rejecting the idea: "It's unrealistic. There are too many desolate mountains and wilderness areas there. That kid only wants to cooperate because he wants our mining technology and the channels for refining and laundering gold and silver. If there really are gold and silver mines, then the little bit of profit from conventional trade is indeed not worth mentioning."

“But we have never made such a deal with nobles with whom we have only a superficial relationship. After all, mining without the Empire’s knowledge is no small matter,” Julian raised his doubts.

In response, Hayden quietly spoke up: "It's said that Miss Hetia Tartu is backed by the thirteenth princess who is currently enjoying great influence in the capital..."

“Another heir to the throne…” Julian paused for a moment, then said with an expression of understanding, “I understand. I will find an opportunity to talk to him again.”

"May the glory of wealth bless you, Julian."

……

"Well? Did you hear that?"

The one speaking with concern was Kira, who was sitting on Ryūka's lap. Ryūka slowly opened her eyes and shook her head.

“No, Julian cast several spells as soon as he returned to his room, and my raven familiar didn't detect anything. But it's certain he contacted Hayden, who wasn't here, through some means.”

Ryuka rested her head on Kira's chest and asked, "Besides basic elemental magic, what schools of magic do spatial teleportation, telepathic communication, and audiovisual isolation belong to?"

"It is said to be a 'secret school' that is skilled in some small countries in the south, and its origin is said to be related to some ancient heretical race. Although most magicians can learn it now, the specific spells and training methods are still kept secret within certain magic groups."

"Is that so?" Ryuga pondered, more interested in the spells Hayden and Julian cast than in combat magic. Teleportation and long-distance communication abilities held immense potential in various aspects, but Ryuga felt the possibility of recruiting these two as followers and replicating their abilities was slim.

"Don't worry, the Chamber of Commerce Federation will take the bait. They're the kind of people who would die for wealth," Kira said with a smile, stroking Ryuxia's face.

"It's not just wealth, but the power that wealth brings. If you ask me, this group is more terrifying than the Empire and the Papacy, only they are still in their infancy."

Ruka smelled the fragrance emanating from Kira. It seemed that Kira had used a light coconut milk scent today, which calmed her down. It was probably a gift from a noble lady at a banquet.

"Glug~ Glug~ Ugh~~ Ha!!!"

Under the desk, Megan, who had been the center of attention just days before, was now acting like a maid, using her thick lips and saliva to make Ryusha's penis glossy and firm...

"Master, Miss Kira is ready..."

Kira looked down at herself and swallowed hard. This was the first time she had seen this thing since that slightly tipsy night, and she couldn't believe that it had ever entered her body.

Although it was her own request to experience it again, she couldn't help but feel a desire to back out.

"Never mind, let's wait for Kania to come back and have her... wait a minute! Hmm~~~"

Ryuka wasn't about to let her off the hook. He lifted Kira's slender waist with both hands and placed her body on top of him like an object.

Thanks to Megan's lubrication, Kira didn't feel much stinging, but the swelling still made her roll her eyes.

She finally understood why Hetia and Kania were so tired the next morning. If they came every day, Kira felt she would be exhausted... but if they didn't come, she couldn't help but feel restless...

As Ryūsha felt Kira's slender weight, holding her was as easy as holding a doll, but the heat and tightness inside were astonishing. He had heard that purebred dark elves were skilled in this art, but Kira clearly couldn't withstand it, so Ryūsha's methods would be much gentler.

But being gentle doesn't mean not being mischievous. Feeling the spasms of Kira's soft body, Ryusha gave Megan a wicked command at his feet.

"Megan, please help our Miss Kira!"

"Follow your orders~"

"Wait! What is she going to do? Ugh! Hiss~~"

Kira turned her head to look at Megan behind her, who spread her pert, chocolate-pudding-like buttocks and buried her face, which was covered in saliva, inside...

"Um~~~"

Kira felt a swelling and stimulation in her front, and a sensitive itching in her back. The two different sensations made her hug Ryuka tightly...

But Ruka, that brat, acted as if nothing had happened, patting Kira's soft buttocks with a comfortable expression and saying:

"Oh, right, we also need to discuss the development of conventional mineral deposits. Hey, can you hear me?"

Kira had no time to discuss serious matters; she grabbed Ryusha's head and kissed her deeply in revenge...

Chapter 13 Kania's Mage Certification and Recruitment

The next day at noon, under the scorching sun, several horse-drawn carriages drove back to Linhu Town.

A group of men and women in long robes got off the car; some were excited and curious, while others looked worried.

From the lead vehicle, a young girl gracefully leaped down, her long, shimmering pale purple hair eliciting gasps from the onlookers. This was Kania. She spoke to the group of men and women, instructing the soldiers to settle them in.

Outside the lord's manor, Kira had been waiting for quite some time.

"Where's Ryusha? Why didn't he come to greet me?" Kania pouted, somewhat disgruntled.