The few neighboring islands Stark had bought had undergone a complete transformation after a massive investment.
Thanks to Stark's love of luxury, the islands had been redesigned and turned into a collection of islands boasting every style imaginable, all up to the standards of a five-star resort.
Compared to the Mediterranean-style seaside mansions on the outlying islands, the Chinese palace complex on the main island was astonishingly novel.
The sprawling compound, with more than a dozen courtyards, was filled with gardens and artificial hills. Winding streams connected two sizable lakes...
The designers, hired at great expense, had brought the essence of Chinese gardens—where every step revealed a new view—to life.
There was no need for luxury goods to lend the place an air of opulence. The naturally sculpted landscapes showcased taste and a distinctive kind of extravagance to the fullest.
Of course, it had cost a fortune—perhaps even more...
Under the red walls and green tiles, the old butler Albus and Happy supervised a group of workers as they arranged a wedding stage in an open area. The setup looked a little out of place.
Both sides of the red carpet leading to the sea were lined with flower arrangements. A large seating area faced the stage, while several courtyards behind it held a seafood feast sponsored by Nemo II, an outrageously luxurious buffet sponsored by the Waldorf Hotel, and a Chinese banquet sponsored by the Gun Club...
Old William, who had arrived from the distillery the day before, directed his men as they arranged bottles of whiskey into the shape of a Red Dragon.
He had set aside this batch of fine liquor as soon as he learned Principal Alvin was planning to get married.
Yad from the nightclub directed a group of women in server uniforms, who still