Let them offer their loyalty

"Ji Yeling, you should know that this is not a personal grudge." Dorothy's voice was calm and powerful. "The conflict between the Federation and District 25 is far beyond you and me."

Dorothy sat in her seat. Ji Yeling standing in front of her was just another chess piece to her, a chess piece that might cause unnecessary waves. She did not show any respect to Ji Yeling. There was no awe in her eyes, only the calmness of weighing the pros and cons. Dorothy knew what Ji Yeling's identity meant to Longcheng. She knew that if she acted against her easily, the chain reaction that might be triggered would be far beyond her control.

"Ji Yeling," Dorothy said in a flat and direct voice, "Your life has no value to me, but the Dragon City you represent has its own specific weight. If the situation is intensified because of your disappearance, it will not benefit anyone."

Her words were like a cold blade, cutting through the hypocrisy on the scene. To her, Ji Yeling was just a problem that needed to be properly handled, a potential threat that could lead to greater turmoil. Dorothy was not afraid of Ji Yeling, but she remained vigilant about the riots in Dragon City and dissatisfaction within the Federation that might be caused by it.

Ji Yeling stood there quietly. She knew that her temporary safety was not due to the other party's kindness. Her temporary safety was only because her value had not been fully utilized. Dorothy, as the actual ruler of the Federation, needed her to be alive, at least for now.

Dorothy's negotiation strategy was direct and clear. She clearly defined to Ji Yeling that the current tension was limited to the conflict between the Federation and District 25.

"Our affairs," Dorothy said calmly, "should be resolved by ourselves. The dispute in District 25 has nothing to do with Dragon City. I hope you won't interfere. In return, the Federation will ensure that the fire will not spread to Dragon City."

Her voice was neither raised nor emphasized, as if the future she described was already an unshakable fact. Dorothy's eyes swept across Ji Yeling's face, trying to find clues behind the real expression hidden by the human skin mask. She needed to confirm that Dragon City would not become a new variable, a variable that might cause loopholes in her carefully arranged chess game.

Ji Yeling was silent for a moment, then responded calmly: "I will convey this message to Dragon City, but the Federation must also guarantee its promise."

I'm going to say Longcheng swear words!

Who would believe what you say? Look at what you have turned the Federation into. Who would believe you?

I'm really going to fuck your horse to death!

Who would believe that the fire won’t spread to Longcheng?

Ji Yeling cursed in his heart, but his voice did not change at all: "Now, can you let my deputy and me go?"

"Of course, the Federation has no intention of causing any conflict with Dragon City. I have already released your deputy, who is right at the door. As long as you don't do anything that violates the laws of the Federation, Miss Ji Yeling can do whatever she wants."

Ji Yeling snorted, said nothing, and walked out.

Damn it, we have to get out of here!

Ji Yeling left the negotiation room with Dorothy. Her steps were not hurried, but maintained a gentle and firm rhythm as she walked through the magnificent corridor of the Federal Building. Each step she took seemed steady and elegant. This was a habit she had developed over the years. No matter what kind of opponent she faced, she would never show the slightest panic.

The robot guards saluted as she left, but her eyes did not linger on them. Her senses had spread to everything around her. She knew that in this situation, the most dangerous ones were not the enemies in the open, but the spies hiding in the dark.

Haha, Dorothy probably has someone following her.

After Ji Yeling disappeared around the corner of the corridor, Dorothy nodded gently. Two figures emerged silently from the shadows nearby. Their faces were barely visible in the semi-darkness, only their eyes shone with sharp light. Dorothy's instructions were concise and clear: "Follow her and see what she wants to do next."

The two men said nothing, and slipped out of the room as quietly as cats, blending into the crowd, keeping a certain distance from Ji Yeling. Their training made them almost invisible in the crowd, and they continuously changed their tracking routes and patterns to avoid being detected.

As Ji Yeling's figure disappeared around the corner, the two shadowy figures instantly merged into the crowd. Their steps were brisk and steady, like two quiet streams cleverly weaving through a busy river of people. Along the way, they kept a perfect distance from Ji Yeling, not too close to attract attention, nor too far to lose the target. Their eyes occasionally swept across the reflective windows, using the reflection to monitor Ji Yeling, making sure they were as silent as ghosts.

But Ji Yeling was not an ordinary pedestrian. Her perception was as sharp as a cat in the dark night, and every tentacle captured the fluctuations in the air. She seemed not to notice the existence of her followers, but at a crowded intersection, she suddenly changed direction under the cover of a slowly passing vehicle. The two figures almost lost her in the crowd, and hurriedly pushed through the crowd, trying to re-lock the target.

They found Ji Yeling's trail again, but discovered that her pace suddenly quickened, almost intentionally keeping pace with the pursuers. She walked through a busy market, and the cloak hanging on her shoulders left a faint phantom among the crowded stalls. The pursuers tried their best to keep up, but Ji Yeling was like a ghost. Every time they thought she was about to get close, she would blend into the crowd in an instant and disappear without a trace.

Just as the two stalkers were getting more and more anxious, Ji Yeling suddenly stopped and faced the window of a small shop, as if admiring the exhibits inside. The stalkers took the opportunity to slow down, disguised as passers-by, and tried to search for her traces in inconspicuous corners. However, when they were about to get closer and continue monitoring, they found that Ji Yeling's figure was no longer in the reflected window. She seemed to have evaporated from this world.

Turning their heads and looking around, they realized their negligence - Ji Yeling had already taken advantage of their brief distraction, cleverly crossed the road, and disappeared into the alley opposite, leaving only a complex crowd and an almost imperceptible sneer for the pursuers.

You idiot, you still want to follow me?

"Stupid, you still want to follow me?"

Ji Yeling sneered, took off his black gloves, and slowly exhaled.

"Big sister, where are we going now?"

The deputy followed her, she had been waiting here for a long time.

"Where else can I go? Go to District 25 and meet Jonas. I don't believe a word Dorothy says."

The deputy got into the driver's seat, and then there was a long drive through the wilderness to reach District 25.

I hope District 25 won't let her down, at least not like the Federation...

Ji Yeling closed her eyes and prepared to rest for a while.

Time passed by unknowingly, and we arrived at District 25.

Skyscrapers rise high into the sky, their exterior walls covered with countless fluorescent advertising screens, playing advertisements for the latest hovering cars and virtual reality devices, lighting up the night sky as if it were daytime. Smart lights automatically adjust along the streets, syncing with the pace of pedestrians, creating a lighting environment that is both energy-saving and sci-fi.

On the ground, the sidewalk and the road coexist harmoniously. The automatic walkway is fast and smooth, allowing pedestrians to move easily even in extremely busy areas. The commercial areas on the ground and underground are connected, and high-tech shops, restaurants, entertainment facilities and leisure areas are staggered. Whether it is the skyline viewing restaurant or the underground virtual reality playground, it is a perfect combination of technology and fashion.

The entire area is covered by an intelligent network. Information flows through the city's veins like life blood, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Data towers stand in the center of the city, and huge antennas and satellite receiving stations capture information from all over the world.

"It feels similar to Dragon City, except that it lacks some of the local customs."

The deputy got out of the car and muttered to himself, while Ji Yeling looked at the technology that was similar to that of Longcheng and fell into deep thought.

"It doesn't feel like it's about the same as Dragon City. Let's put it this way. When you compare District 25 with Dragon City and say they're about the same, District 25 has already won."

She noticed the key.

"The last time I saw District 25, it wasn't like this. Let's go for another walk."

There was a flash of surprise in Ji Yeling's eyes. She was standing on an observation deck in District 25, her eyes wandering over the dazzling city scene. She remembered that not long ago this was just a city-state in the Federation. Although the level of technology was advanced, it was a far cry from the current glory.

She looked at the towering buildings. They were no longer simple office spaces, but integrated complexes that combined living, working and leisure. The fully automated management system made the people's livelihood here run like a precise clock. The innovation of the transportation network made the morning rush hour congestion a thing of the past. Automated driverless cars and fast public transportation systems made travel easy and fast.

The improvement in armaments also shocked Ji Yeling. The city-state that once relied on federal forces to maintain stability now has its own powerful defense system. The unmanned fighter jets patrolling in the sky and the robot guards everywhere on the streets reveal the city’s military strength.

The living standards of the residents of District 25 have improved significantly. The universal medical care and efficient social service system have enabled the people here to enjoy unprecedented benefits. Ji Yeling saw the smiling faces on the streets and felt the vitality and satisfaction emanating from the depths of the city.

“Although it is an exaggeration like Dragon City, it is no longer the original District 25.”

The current District 25 can definitely compete with the Federation.

"So, big sister, are we going to see Mr. Jonas now?"

"Don't be in a hurry. Let me first feel the beauty of this city. After leaving the Federation and arriving in the more friendly District 25, I no longer need to hide my identity. Naturally, I have to have fun."

Ji Yeling came down from the observation deck with great interest and walked to the street.

The deputy knew Ji Yeling's personality, sighed, and could only follow, obey Ji Yeling, and play wildly with her.

A virtual playground, street food, reports about Jonas, hearing what Jonas is like among the people, and understanding what the Alt Foundation is like, just like a tourist...

She was really having fun, not using play as an excuse to investigate all kinds of information. She even went to the food court in District 25 to eat hot pot, but when she saw the store owner pouring sugar into the hot pot, she silently paid and walked out of the store.

It is understandable that opening a store must cater to the tastes of customers.

But her mouth didn't listen to her. How could a shop that added sugar to hot pot be authentic?

I really can't eat it!

Finally, after a crazy day and night of fun, at the bright noon, Ji Yeling's communication rang.

"Ms. Ji Yeling, how is it, are you having fun in District 25?"

Jonas's smiling voice rang out.

"Compared to the hospitality of the Federation, how does it compare?"

Chapter 584 Am I qualified to cooperate with you now?

There was a slight ripple in Ji Yeling's heart, and his expression moved slightly, but he quickly regained his composure, and concealed his inner surprise with a light-hearted statement.

She had never thought of hiding. Her presence in District 25 was not to hide or escape. She had her own purpose for coming here - to sign an agreement with District 25.

Ji Yeling frowned slightly, her eyes searching the crowd subtly, looking for clues that could reveal information, and she had doubts in her heart.

Although Jonas and his Alte Group have become very powerful in recent years and have seemingly climbed to the pinnacle of power in District 25 overnight, can such a rapid rise really be as solid as a rock?

District 25, this well-known prosperous area, has countless complex power entanglements hidden behind it. Although the influence of the Alt Consortium is expanding rapidly, it takes not only time to really penetrate these layers of interest networks, but also wisdom and strategy. Ji Yeling knows this very well. Her suspicion is not groundless - after all, the game of power is never a sprint, but a long marathon.

When considering cooperation with District 25, she must think carefully. Although Jonas and his consortium seem unbreakable, there are many examples of rapid rise and then falling like a meteor. Ji Yeling does not want her ship to encounter an unexpected event because she has taken refuge in a giant ship that may capsize. She needs more information and a deeper understanding before deciding whether to invest her chips in District 25.

After thinking about it, Ji Yeling decided to say some polite words first.

"Mr. Jonas, the surprise that District 25 gave me far exceeded my expectations. The indifference of the Federation and the enthusiasm here are like ice and fire."

Her voice was calm. This conversation was not just a polite conversation, but also a test for Jonas.

In fact, the test had already begun when Jonas called.

"I'm glad you like it here, Miss Ji." Jonas' voice came through the airwaves, with a hint of inquiry: "I've been looking forward to meeting you. I wonder if it's convenient for you now?"

Ji Yeling looked at the bustling street and had already made a decision in his heart.

Just looking at it this way, we can only gather some rough information...

It would be better to go see Jonas first.

"Convenient. I'm looking forward to our meeting. Tell me the time and place, and I'll be there on time."

On the other end of the phone, Jonas smiled slightly, seeming satisfied with her answer.

"Then let's set it for tonight. I'll send a car to pick you up, Miss Ji. I look forward to a wonderful time tonight. The expenses in District 25 will be reimbursed by the Alte Consortium."

After the communication ended, Ji Yeling stood up and looked at this vibrant city. She knew that no matter how prosperous the 25th District looked, the power games and crises inside still existed. Tonight's meeting would be a new beginning, perhaps an opportunity or a trap, but no matter what the outcome, Ji Yeling was ready.

Although the probability of it being a trap is very small, you still have to be careful.

She turned and walked towards the clothing store on the street to choose an outfit suitable for the dinner.

You look so tired and it's not suitable to go to a dinner party. You'd better change into some suitable clothes.

There didn't seem to be any good clothes in the clothing stores on the street, and the best clothing store in District 25 seemed to be owned by the Alte Group.

“Is this dress beautiful?”

"From my perspective as a woman, it's very beautiful, big sister."

The deputy looked at Ji Yeling from the side, feeling a little regretful that he couldn't record this moment.

The big sister usually wears that uniform, but today she changed her clothes for Jonas...

Damn it, why do I feel so bad?

Ji Yeling stood in front of a closet full of various clothes, choosing carefully. Her fingers finally stopped on a black silk evening dress. It was a dress with a simple yet gorgeous design. The skirt fits the body with exquisite tailoring, and the waist is embellished with a thin golden belt, which not only shows the waist but also adds a bit of luxury. The neckline is low but not revealing, and the cuffs are slightly fluffy, revealing an inadvertent elegance. This dress not only fits the solemn atmosphere of the party, but also perfectly shows Ji Yeling's temperament-mysterious and noble, like the stars at night, quiet and shining.

Whether a group's control is really stable, although the Alte Group has developed rapidly, the time is short after all. This makes Ji Yeling doubt whether Jonas can firmly control District 25.

However, whether she doubted it or not, cooperation was a top priority. The development speed and potential shown by District 25 were too attractive to Ji Yeling to allow her to temporarily put aside her concerns and explore a possible new alliance.

That night, Ji Yeling, wearing carefully selected clothes, followed Jonas' car to an old tavern with a strong sense of history.

This old tavern is hidden in a corner of a bustling city. The couplet hanging at the door has faded a little, but the handwriting is still upright and powerful, revealing the accumulation of years. When you push open the carved wooden door, a scent of wine mixed with the aroma of wooden furniture rushes towards you, as if it can instantly bring you back to the era of wooden chairs and copper pots.

The interior decoration is simple and quaint, with traditional Chinese paintings on rice paper hanging on the walls, depicting landscapes or plants, bamboos and rocks, showing a kind of classical beauty. The wooden tables and chairs have been polished over the years and look more stable. The palace lanterns hanging from the ceiling emit soft light, filling the entire space with a warm and hazy halo.

The boss took out a bottle of old wine that had been sealed for many years from an antique cabinet. The dust on the bottle witnessed its history. The moment the bottle cap was opened, the aroma of age-old wine filled the air.

"It's hard to find a place with such Dragon City characteristics, even in your place."

Jonas chose a seat where he could sit and see the bustling scenery of the 25th District through the window.

"Yes, I really like this kind of ancient and quaint things. Unfortunately, even in Dragon City there is no such place. It's not that there is none, but it is extremely rare. I didn't expect to see one in District 25."

Ji Yeling sat down, and the boss left the tavern after serving the wine and cups, leaving only Jonas and Ji Yeling.

After sitting down face to face, their conversation was full of tentativeness and metaphors.

Don't talk nonsense.

Ji Yeling went straight to the point without any nonsense: "Mr. Jonas, I am very impressed with District 25, and the achievements of the Alt Foundation are even more impressive. But you and I both know that controlling a region requires not only funds and technology, but also time to settle down and convince the people."

First praise Jonas highly and say a few words to him, then he will be easier to talk to later.

Jonas smiled slightly, with a sharp light flashing in his eyes: "Ms. Ji, I understand your concerns, but please allow me to assure you that the Alt Consortium not only controls capital and technology, but also the hearts of the people. The loyalty of those people in District 25 is not a simple attachment, but is based on true trust and respect."

Everyone knows that the hearts of the people in District 25 are illusory.

What Ji Yeling wanted to say was whether he could guarantee the dominance of the Alte Group in District 25, and he had to make his decision absolutely.

Only in this way can they continue to cooperate.

"Stop talking nonsense, Mr. Jonas. I need you to prove your absolute control over District 25."

"That....."

"There is a gang conflict around, please evacuate, please evacuate..."

The conversation between Jonas and Ji Yeling was suddenly interrupted by the sound of a commotion broadcast nearby. Jonas looked out the window in confusion, but saw no trace of the gang.

At this time, Eiffel sent a message.

"Mr. Jonas, I'm sorry to bother you. Intelligence has discovered that a gang called the Skull Gang, which has been causing a lot of trouble recently, has advanced weapons and is suspected to be affiliated with the Federation. The conflict is happening near your current location, so please be careful."

Below are several documents.