Diplomatic Language

"Do you understand? This is a huge problem."

Even the aloof Dragon Girl's tone carried a hint of solemnity.

Kang De glanced at Tina, Tina nodded slightly, a hint of worry flashing in her eyes.

He asked Lily, "Are these dragons... dead?"

"I don't know... Their condition is strange, but what's certain is that even if they're not dead, their condition is extremely bad. Dragon Island has prepared for the worst."

Dragon Island can monitor the general condition and location of every dragon in the world.

Therefore, they were able to detect the Dragon Clan investigation team's loss of contact in real time.

Because the dragon race's household registration system is unparalleled in the world.

After this Dragon Emperor ascended the throne, his first major move was to search high and low, searching for all the dragons scattered around the world, sampling and registering each one's identity and assets, and forcibly bringing them under the jurisdiction of the Dragon Kingdom. Those who resisted were subjected to the iron fist of dictatorship and enforced.

Although the process was fraught with twists and turns, and even nearly triggered a dragon transformation, in the long run, such an action was beneficial for generations to come. The Dragon Emperor successfully turned the soul imprints of all the surviving dragons into Soul Fire Dragon Lanterns, which are preserved in the Dragon Fire Palace. This means that Dragon Island has a complete understanding of the situation of every dragon in the world.

This combination of big data and a comprehensive household registration system ultimately became the cornerstone of Dragon Island Defense rise.

Through big data, the Dragon Emperor has a thorough understanding of the dragons' situations. Through certain analysis and calculations, he can know which dragons have economic conditions and needs, which young dragons cannot build a nest, and which middle-aged dragons are getting married and urgently need a large amount of treasure. Since he knows their needs, he can absorb fresh blood at the lowest cost, enabling the human resources department to quickly and accurately find the most suitable dragon candidates.

In this way, new jobs created by the continuous expansion of Dragon Island Defense are constantly filled by new employees, resulting in improved company performance and increased revenue for the company and its employees – a win-win situation.

As for commissions, the usual practice is a 30/70 split – the company naturally takes 30%.

After all, Dragon Island Defense is a non-profit organization that serves the interests of all dragons.

As for how to recoup the 70% after the 30/70 split, using the insanely high housing prices on Dragon Island, expensive insurance policies, and various scale care, consulting services, equipment customization, and luxury goods purchases—that's a business secret that His Majesty the Dragon Emperor doesn't want to share with outsiders.

Incidentally, it is said that Dragon Island's next century strategic plan is to vigorously encourage childbirth. The Dragon Defense is responsible for allocating nests and providing rewards, taking care of everything from hatching to schooling to adulthood to working to dying in battle.

As for using the Dragonfire Soul Lamp to monitor the dragons' condition, it's also to keep track of the war mission's progress in real time and to promote follow-up medical and insurance services as needed.

A side effect is to draw attention to the safety of the public.

... and it came in handy at this time.

This is the second time the Dragonfire Palace has been shaken recently—not long ago, Siege of Danfeng Lucerne, the soul lamps of an entire dragon legion were extinguished within minutes.

Now another one has happened.

And it was within Goth's territory.

Moreover, he disappeared during an operation specifically targeting Kang De.

Kang De clicked his tongue. "I've been getting a lot of blame lately... playing dirty?"

The Parrot kept a straight face, trying hard not to laugh out loud.

Kang De glanced at Tina, then said to the Dragon Girl, "We are completely innocent in this matter. As you know, Goth is currently weakened by war and its national strength is exhausted. It does not have the ability to quickly annihilate a well-trained dragon army in a short period of time... Given that our transaction was successful, we have no motive whatsoever."

"Goth is certainly out of the question," Lily said calmly, "But you have that suspicion and motive."

Kang De shrugged and said, "But I have an alibi."

Archduke Goth and the court officials, who had been listening in, shook their heads slightly—even though they had spent the night with Princess Tina and the Crimson Queen, how could the two of them be considered witnesses?

"Indeed." Then they heard the Dragon Girl say, "You came looking for me last night."

"..."

The gazes of the Grand Duke and Goth's officials became subtle.

The Parrot across the table nodded and said, "He came to see me last night and stayed with me for a while. Many elves from the expeditionary force saw it with their own eyes."

"..."

The Goth People's gaze shifted from subtle to utter astonishment.

--Kang De, what are you doing, Kang De!

"But that's not enough to clear your name... or rather, the key issue isn't where you went last night or who can vouch for you."

Lily stated, "International affairs, disputes between nations, follow the law of the jungle, not arguments and theories in court. There are no arbitrators; power is the only applicable law."

"The current situation is that a dragon has disappeared in Goth's territory, and the Dragon Council believes that Goth must provide an explanation. They don't care about alibis or lack of motive; they just want results. And they also believe that Goth has to, and must, give the dragons an explanation... Do you understand what I mean?"

Kang De nodded slowly.

I understand.

Because Goth's country was weak, and had just been severely weakened by the elves, the arrogant dragons believed that there was no need for reasoning. If a dragon disappeared within Goth's territory, Goth had to provide an explanation, even if it was an illegal entry, a menacing attack, or an investigation or even an attempt to hold Kang De accountable.

But our people have gone missing, and you need to provide a clear explanation.

Because indeed... there is no reason or justice to speak of between nations.

If the dragons had disappeared within the territory of Twilight Moon, they might still have sent a note and made negotiations with the elven authorities, but their attitude would certainly not have been so aggressive.

"A weak nation has no diplomacy; I understand this principle very well."

The reason why Lily could openly state this fact in front of the Goth People was the same—how could a dragon, so proud, care about the feelings of mortals who were like ants?

Kang De asked seriously, "So, what is Dragon Island's ultimatum?"

Lily turned and exchanged a glance with Santos, the foreign marketing manager from Dragon Island, who also seemed uneasy.

"The conservative dragon elders are clamoring to summon the Dragon Legion and prepare to uphold the dignity of the dragon race. According to their thinking, which is based on the ancient way of doing things, if a member of their race is attacked and their life or death is unknown, the dragons should immediately send out their entire swarm to the scene of the incident, find out the truth, and wipe out the enemy."

The Dragon Girl said, "Don't misunderstand. What they mean by 'finding the truth' isn't about dozens of dragons acting as temporary scouts at the attack site. It means taking all the means they deem necessary, including interrogating everyone they deem worthy of interrogation, and forcibly taking over the local and even national administrative and military power to force the local rulers to assist in any investigation they deem reasonable..."

The Goth People present were all visibly shaken.

What's the difference between this and occupation or destruction of a country?

Kang De said coldly, "It's truly a strange thing that the dragon race hasn't been wiped out yet."

The Parrot said, "It's not surprising that 'all the means they deem necessary' are used, including interrogations, searches, looting, and extortion under the guise of investigation, but also transactions, negotiations, discussions, and even private pleading. As for the methods used, it depends on who the target is."

Kang De nodded and said, "So you're trying to take Goth for a fool?"

"This is merely the action they theoretically want to take, the only way to show the continent that the glory of the dragons has not faded... It's easy to understand."

Lily's voice was somewhat hurried. "But they are ultimately wary of your Forbidden Spell. The reformists, led by His Majesty the Dragon Emperor, are also trying their best to mediate. However, the fact that a dragon delegation has disappeared within Goth territory is undeniable. This concerns the honor of the entire race, and it cannot be changed by exchanged interests or the will of the rulers. Even His Majesty the Dragon Emperor cannot defy this public opinion, so..."

At this point, she closed her eyes, and her tone became quite volatile.

"If this matter is not handled properly... war may break out."

The hall was silent.

War.

No one understood the horror of this word better than the Goth People present.

They suffered repeated defeats under the elves' offensive, inflicting heavy casualties and exhausting their national strength. If it weren't for Kang De, by this very moment, Danfeng Lucerne would have already been occupied by the elves, and those present would either have been prosecuted as war criminals or had already died for their country. The beautiful Goth would have been plunged into ruin and devastation...

And now, another cloud of war is looming.

People's eyes involuntarily turned to Kang De. Even though the courtiers present were all intelligent and reasonable people, it was human nature that they almost subconsciously felt a little strange—because this matter essentially stemmed from Kang De's oath with the dragon.

This aroused the wrath of the dragons, who then launched an investigation.

Therefore, the dragon delegation was mysteriously attacked and disappeared.

The moment negative emotions arose, they were extinguished by reason and conscience. They knew Goth had no right to criticize or express dissatisfaction... but something still felt off.

Kang De's gaze swept quickly across the faces of these people.

Then he let out a long breath.

He glanced at Tina beside him. The princess's gaze was as gentle as ever, but this gentleness, tempered by the flames of war, was as resilient as steel, radiating composure and trust.

"I see."

This matter arose because of him, so naturally it should be resolved by him.

He stood up, looked at the Grand Duke who had remained expressionless, and said, "It seems I've caused Goth trouble this time, but don't worry, as I just said, I'll handle it."

Grand Duke Reknos looked at him for a moment, then frowned.

"I am angry."

He spoke slowly.

Tina exclaimed in surprise, "Father..."

Kang De squeezed her hand.

"Kang De, you met my daughter overseas, fell in love, and together you experienced the Glittering Sand Incident. You joined our war for her, protected our people, and saved our country."

"Not long ago, we helped you with all our might, just as you helped us."

"It's a difficult and sad thing to list out the favors we owe each other like an account book and to confirm our responsibilities. Kang De, you should be ready to become part of our family."

The Grand Duke said slowly, "You should have told me—let's resolve this matter."

Kang De was slightly taken aback.

A warm touch came from his arm, and Tina hugged his arm, her smile gentle and bright.

Then, Kang De gave a self-deprecating smile and shook his head.

"Okay," he said, "Let's resolve this."

"A good start," the Grand Duke said. "Then, Your Highness Kang De, esteemed Forbidden Spell, in the name of Grand Duke Teldrassil, I temporarily grant you the powers of Monarch Goth."

"Only in this occasion will your words and attitude represent Goth's will. I ask you to exercise this power and responsibility with care, to speak to the dragon representatives, and to send Goth's voice to Dragon Island."

He paused here, then said softly, "Please, let the dragons also see Goth's dignity."

Kang De stood there for a moment, then shook his head and sighed.

The Grand Duke asked, "What's wrong?"

"Speaking on behalf of a country..." Kang De sighed, "It's hindering my ability to speak."

But he turned to look at Lily and Santos, the representatives of the dragons.

Santos quickly stepped forward and gestured for Lily to stand up.

"You have all heard this," Kang De said. "I hereby proclaim to all citizens of the Dragon Kingdom that, from this very moment, Goth asserts his right to airspace. All the skies above our territory and territorial waters belong to Goth's sovereignty. All unauthorized airspace incursions are considered illegal intrusions and will be treated as hostile acts. We will attack and expel them without mercy, and all consequences shall be borne by the intruder."

Santos's expression changed.

This euphemistic diplomatic language immediately...

If Dragon Island dares to come, then war will break out.

Then the marketing manager of Dragon Defense finally understood why Kang De had sighed, saying that speaking on behalf of the country would affect his performance—damn it, so if he were speaking to Dragon Island in a private capacity, he would just swear or say something even more offensive and impolite?

Kang De continued, "Furthermore, regarding the case of the disappearance of your country's national who illegally entered the country, Goth, in the spirit of humanitarianism and humanistic concern, attaches great importance to this matter. We are willing to provide assistance to the best of our ability, and at your request and suggestion, we will initiate a criminal case and conduct a follow-up investigation. We will use an efficient judicial system to track down the perpetrator, do our best to rescue your national, and keep you informed of the progress and results of the investigation."

"However, given that your missing nationals entered the country illegally and are not protected by Goth law, our assistance is not free. All expenses should be borne by your country. Illegal entry is subject to Goth law, and we suggest that your country pay fines for illegal entrants in accordance with the law."

After he finished speaking, he spread his hands and said, "Please inform the Dragon Emperor and the Dragon Council of the above."

Santos gave a wry smile.

Lily shook her head and said, "The old dragons are furious."

Kang De calmly replied, "We were furious when we heard their proposed 'method of investigation.' An eye for an eye, an eye for an eye; Goth is not a lump of dough they can knead at will."

Santos whispered, "Your Highness Kang De, if this sparks a war..."

Tina spoke first, "Your Excellency, territorial sovereignty is the most basic respect between nations. Do we think our demand that your dragon not enter the country without permission offends your dragon's dignity? We are willing to help your country find its missing citizens; isn't that enough?"

"If the dragon elders believe that our failure to immediately surrender, unconditionally accept Long Yi's orders, and provide substantial compensation to the missing dragons is a blow to the dragon race's honor, then let's wage war! Even the elves aren't as unreasonable as you!"

--Elves, who weren't as outrageous as dragons, glared at her.

"That's exactly what we mean," Kang De said. "Goth may be small, but he cannot be underestimated. If necessary, we will prove to you with our blood—our land, your blood."

Lily shook her head and said, "There's no point in saying these harsh words to me... Are you sure you want to relay this?"

"Yes," Kang De said. "I'm certain that if the dragon elders have forgotten the power of the Forbidden Spell falling from the sky because they've slept too long, I wouldn't mind letting them relive it."

Santos genuinely didn't want a war. He whispered, "Your Highness, let's be a little more tactful. Goth cannot afford a second war, especially since the Elven crisis is not yet over..."

--This means be careful of a lose-lose situation, or the elves taking advantage of the chaos.

In his haste, he forgot that even the softest voice could be heard by an elf's keen hearing.

The Phoenix King, seated to one side, said calmly, "Don't forget that your Dragon Island is the same."

The elves were immediately astonished, Santos looked incredulous, not to mention the Goth People, whose courtiers nearly popped their eyes out.

--Wait, wait, wait, wait, what did the Phoenix King just say?

Is Dragon Island the same?

What's this?

--Supporting Goth?

They stared at Kang De in astonishment, their expressions becoming even more complex.

--You're truly something, my lord!

An elf behind him whispered, "Your Majesty..."

The Phoenix King surveyed the crowd with an air of dignified authority and noble bearing, his gaze finally settling on Kang De: "Your Highness Kang De, Twilight Moon respects the power and achievements of Forbidden Spell spellcasters. The world's finest spellcasters eagerly await your service. The Royal Court is willing to make an exception for you, even requiring only Goth's nominal submission—the terms of the Valentan negotiations remain valid, and our doors are always open to you."

This time, even the Dragon Girl Lily looked surprised and caught off guard.

No one expected that when Goth faced a crisis and challenge from the dragons, Twilight Moon, the most unlikely enemy to help, would actually lend a hand and clearly express its stance!

But soon, the clever people realized the elves' intentions.

As expected of the Phoenix King.

The Twilight Moon States period was already highly developed. Even powerful dragons were only used as auxiliary forces to support the war effort. Unlike smaller nations that regarded dragon mercenaries as strategic weapons that determined the outcome of battles, the elves did not value them much. Especially in the Battle of Danfeng Lucerne, so many Dragon Knights were easily defeated by Kang De. It goes without saying which side was more valuable. Moreover, in addition to his superb alchemy skills, Kang De also Forbidden Spell.

Being able to support Goth at a time like this is a sure win.

At the very least, this would ensure that His Highness Kang De, who values relationships, would remember this favor, and would also ease the recent tensions between the two countries, giving them an initial advantage in the upcoming negotiations.

If the dragons really went crazy and resorted to war...

That doesn't matter.

If Kang De were to ask for help and agree to the conditions, Twilight Moon would also be willing to intervene. In that case, they would gain a powerful Forbidden Spell mage and an alchemy master, establishing an ultimate hegemony that the Human Empire could never challenge.

If you don't want to interfere... then don't interfere.

Watching Goth and Dragon Island both suffer heavy losses, and then having Twilight Moon go up to collect the kills, was quite satisfying.

You won't lose money either way.

And the price to pay is nothing more than verbally expressing support.

As for whether the dragons will be dissatisfied—do the elves need to care about that? What can they do even if they are dissatisfied!

After figuring this out, everyone couldn't help but sigh.

As expected of the Phoenix King, his scheming is incredibly profound.

However, after their sighs, the humans and elves suddenly remembered something.

Etc!

Are the terms of the Valentan negotiations unchanged?

--Including that marriage proposal?

As more and more people and elves understood their companions' expressions, a sudden unease struck them. From a political and national interest perspective, it was perfectly normal for the Phoenix King to choose to support Goth.

But what if we look at it from a private perspective...?

Their gazes grew increasingly strange.

Well, how should I put it?

Now, the Goth People and the elves have reached an agreement on a certain issue.

They were all against the marriage.

In this conference room, Kang De and the Parrot exchanged glances: the dragon representative with a solemn expression, the elven attendant with a terrified look, and the human whose expression was gradually becoming uneasy.

Only he saw through the other party's motives.

--Ready to sell yourself to thank me? Hehehehehehe.

The Parrot's eyes conveyed this message.

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PS1: Update... a bit early, will continue tomorrow.