In the hall, they only felt the earth shake and mountains tremble outside, accompanied by the startled cries of many dragons.
A moment later, Chen Rui strolled in with a satisfied look, dusting off his hands.
"Oh?" The interest in Pargoris's eyes deepened. "Finished talking with him?"
"Yes. He lost when we 'reasoned things out.'" Chen Rui spread his hands. "By agreement, Stanwell should apologize publicly and surrender all his property as compensation. But he was right about one thing—his conflict with Aunt Meriya is an internal matter of the Dragon Race. As an outsider, it would be inconvenient for me to interfere in how it is resolved. The decision should still be left to Your Majesty and Aunt Meriya."
Pargoris revealed a surprised expression. This approach was equivalent to abandoning the spoils after winning. Though it appeared to be a loss, it had thoughtfully preserved the dignity of the Dragon Emperor and the entire Dragon Race. It was a brilliant tactic of advancing by retreating. From Meriya's perspective alone, it yielded far more than simply forcing Stanwell to apologize and compensate her.
"So the one who is 'the most talented, without equal' isn't Lola, but you." Pargoris gave Chen Rui a deep look. "The youngest Grandmaster in history, the youngest demigod... perhaps there is even more that I do not know. I now have the feeling that I am ignorant and poorly informed. When did humanity produce such an extraordinary figure? And yet I only learned of you today."
Pargoris's blazing gaze swept over Isabella, and his brows rose slightly.
Chen Rui noticed the Dragon Emperor's change in expression and smiled calmly. "Cooperation is neither begging for pity nor charity. For both parties in a partnership, the stronger the better, isn't that right?"
"Indeed." Pargoris nodded. "Please, sit."
Meriya