The master of this place was a member of the Droopy-eared Race. People of this clan were born with unusual features: their ears drooped past their shoulders, making them a particularly strange sight even among the Underground Race.
It was said that the clan enjoyed extraordinary longevity, living at least three to five times longer than the Underground Race's average. Ordinary members of the Underground Race might live for decades or a century, but the Droopy-eared Race could live to be over two hundred. It was astonishing.
The Droopy-eared Race also had a fine appearance. To Jiang Yue, they looked quite similar to humans from the Surface World. Aside from their exaggeratedly long ears, they would have been considered quite handsome and dignified on the Surface World.
The castle's master was named Cen Qi. He looked dignified and refined, yet carried an air of authority that made people wary of crossing him.
Though the Droopy-eared Race was not one of the Underground World's Ten Great Golden Clans, it was still a rather unusual clan with a certain status in the Underground World.
Of course, the Droopy-eared Race was mild-mannered and introverted, and disliked dealing with outsiders. To the outside world, they even seemed aloof and indifferent.
"Everyone, have some tea," Cen Qi said mildly. Then he rested his hands on his knees and fell into a calm silence.
The Droopy-eared Race had long limbs as well as long ears. With their arms hanging down, they seemed exceptionally dignified.
Jiang Yue watched silently. He knew this was no place for him to speak.
Old Ba, facing the castle's master, Cen Qi, also seemed unsure how to begin.
Relying only on the land on both sides of the river and the rent collected from the villagers was nowhere near enough to sustain