It was an isolated island in a vast ocean, once a place of imprisonment in history, now a pearl of the sea recognized by the world.
City of Radiance was its earliest name, but as more and more ethnic groups and people settled there, and artificial islands sprang up along its edges, it was now called the Mingxi Islands.
This was not a transliteration. It was simply an Eastern Kingdom name and writing; this world had been influenced far too deeply by Eastern Kingdom culture.
Though roughly seventeen ethnic languages still circulated among the populace, the first official language had always been Eastern Kingdom speech.
"What a beautiful city."
Lu PingAn had set foot on an outer artificial island. His ship needed to resupply and undergo repairs here, and most of the crew would spend this period here as well.
The main island of the Mingxi Islands had long since become overcrowded. During the ceremony, even entering it required approval and inspection. Lu PingAn planned to go over in a couple of days.
"...Isn't this just some resort beach?"
A large hotel stood not far behind them. The beach stretched as far as the eye could see, bikini-clad beauties played in the water, and young attendants served the crowds.
Children chased one another across the sand, young people played volleyball, and old people napped beneath parasols. Everyone had their own way of having fun, while their smiles remained the same.
Not far away, vendors were grilling food. Beside the host's stage, noisy lights and speakers suggested that some sort of music festival was underway.
The sight made Lu PingAn feel as if he had returned to a vacation destination in his hometown.
"This has always been a vacation spot for many wealthy merchants and lords."
On the nearby beach, Lu