Topaz, Are You Declaring War?

Topaz arrived in the city and stepped onto the newly paved cobblestone streets of the Upper District of Belobog.

The scene that she saw exceeded her expectations.

Based on past data and projected projections from the Interastral Peace Corporation, this region is judged to be one that has just emerged from Stellaron crisis, is in dire need of reconstruction, and is resource-poor.

However, what they saw before them directly refuted the company's assumptions!

What Topaz witnessed firsthand was a bustling scene of construction.

Scaffolding stands tall, brand-new buildings rise from the ground, and the restored ancient streets blend the solemnity of Preservation style with a modern feel.

People hurried along, their faces showing no despair, only focus and anticipation.

This vibrant energy and vitality cannot be faked.

A person's mental state directly reflects their future prospects.

Only those who have hope for the future can possess this kind of high-spirited and upward-looking spirit!

Topaz recalled the company's report and concluded that there was nothing particularly wrong with the company's forecast report.

There must be other reasons that caused this change, reasons that the company is unaware of.

Topaz's curiosity was piqued.

To obtain genuine, firsthand information, she entered a noisy Tavern.

The Tavern was steamy, filled with the sounds of conversation and clinking glasses.

Topaz astutely observed that the customers included well-dressed former nobles, workers in overalls, and ordinary citizens.

A planet that has experienced a crisis and has been covered in ice and snow for so many years must be short of resources. How could it possibly use its precious food to brew alcohol?

The drinkers unanimously attributed all of this change to one person.

A young man.

I heard his name is Lin Hai.

Its origin is unknown.

Topaz listened carefully.

As the drinks flowed, the patrons became more relaxed and their voices grew louder.

"Tell me, how much supplies does that Mr. Lin actually have?"

"Who can know? Anyway, it must be a lot, otherwise, they wouldn't have given out so much aid so easily."

"I've met Mr. Lin, from a distance. He's very young; it's hard to imagine that someone so young could wield such great power."

"I witnessed Lin Hai fighting Cocolia. The commotion was so huge that I was almost unable to stand up."

People were talking about the supplies brought by Lin Hai, the newly connected ventilation ducts in the Underworld, and the large-scale infrastructure projects being carried out in both the upper Underworld.

His words were full of respect, even surpassing his assessment of the former Supreme Guardian.

Before anyone knew it, someone mentioned Cocolia, who was being held captive.

"The former Supreme Guardian did those things; I wonder how Mr. Lin will deal with him."

"I hope... we can be more accommodating."

"It's hard to say. Don't forget, the upper Underworld have been isolated for so long; the people in the Underworld don't see it that way."

"This is a complete mess, it's not going to be easy to handle!"

Topaz seized the opportunity to join the conversation, subtly eavesdropping.

She learned further and confirmed that Lin Hai was not a native of Belobog, yet he held extremely high prestige there.

They even effectively control the overall situation.

As Topaz learned more about the young man, he became increasingly curious about him, who could break the planet's predicament and win the people's support.

A snap.

The Tavern door was pushed open.

Several Silvermane Guards entered the Tavern, quickly surveyed the surroundings, and then began a cursory search. Before long, someone spotted Topaz.

These Silvermane Guards exchanged glances, quickly moved closer, and surrounded Topaz in the center.

Topaz scratched his head and took a small sip of wine.

She was somewhat surprised, never expecting that Belobog would discover her whereabouts in such a short time.

Topaz calmly stood up and proactively introduced himself, "I am Topaz, a representative of the Interastral Peace Corporation. It's a pleasure to meet you. I've come here to discuss cooperation."

She displayed the professional demeanor of a company executive.

After confirming her identity, the Silvermane Guards explained that he was ordered to take her to Kliperburg to meet Bronya and Mr. Lin Hai.

Topaz had the same idea and readily agreed to set off, his heart filled with anticipation—he would finally be able to see the legendary Lin Hai.

The source of all the changes!

On the way to Kliperburg, Topaz kept observing the surrounding buildings.

The old style, after renovation, has been given new life.

Upon entering the main hall of Kliperburg, Topaz immediately sensed the convergence of different auras.

Seated in the center was the young yet composed Bronya, with Seele beside her, her eyes sharp and piercing.

But what is most eye-catching is the Lin Hai standing on one side.

He had a unique temperament, and his clothing style was also strange. He didn't look like a warrior. He exuded an indescribable sense of calm and power.

The Silvermane Guards reported back and withdrew from the main hall.

Topaz, facing Bronya and the others, calmly introduced himself first:

"Topaz, a senior executive of Interastral Peace Corporation, thanks you for the meeting."

Her gaze swept over the crowd, finally settling on Lin Hai.

Lin Hai asked directly, "Miss Topaz, what brings you here from the Interastral Peace Corporation?"

Topaz responded with a smile, explaining the purpose of his visit, "The company sent me to make initial contact to understand Belobog's current situation and explore possibilities for future cooperation; in business terms, this is due diligence."

She was trying to take the initiative.

Upon hearing this, Lin Hai calmly pointed out, "Preliminary contact? I'm afraid your authority is insufficient to finalize truly crucial collaborations."

Topaz maintained his smile and responded flexibly, "Of course, major collaborations need to be reported up the chain of command, but a detailed and positive preliminary report written by me will undoubtedly pave the way for subsequent higher-level negotiations. Understanding the basic situation is precisely the first step towards larger negotiations, isn't it?"

Her words were perfectly tactful.

Then, Topaz changed the subject, introducing the company's position. "According to the records of Interastral Peace Corporation, the Jarilo-VI- VI still owes the company a huge debt due to aid it received in the past. One of the core tasks of my trip is to assess your planet's debt repayment ability and discuss feasible repayment plans."

Debt.

These two words, like icicles, instantly pierced the still relatively peaceful atmosphere in the hall.

Bronya frowned slightly.

Seele's hand instinctively moved towards the weapon.

Only Lin Hai remained calm, as if he had expected this all along.

He looked directly at Topaz, and spoke slowly, his voice carrying an undeniable power:

"There's no need to negotiate the debt issue, but the future of Belobog should be decided by the people living on this land. We welcome cooperation from companies, but if they want to participate as creditors, or even demand things they shouldn't..."

Lin Hai paused briefly, then looked sharply at Topaz.

"So, Miss Topaz, what you've brought isn't an intention to cooperate, but rather a declaration of war!"

Topaz's breathing freezes.

I'm a little undecided.

Who exactly is this person?

How dare you say such a thing!

Interastral Peace Corporation is the most powerful force in the entire star system, with its armed forces spread throughout the region.

Declare war?

Even the Xianzhou Alliance, when faced with the formidable strength of the Interastral Peace Corporation, must sometimes back down.

Does that young man not far away really have the guts to confront the Interastral Peace Corporation head-on?!