Choice and Obligation

Watching the princess leave the hall, Nia turned to look at Li Lin.

"This is a good start."

"That's right, but it's only the beginning."

Li Lin took out the letter of credence, examined it repeatedly, and then frowned slightly.

"However, things that are too good to be true need to be viewed with caution. Moreover, the fact that the other party has such audacity suggests that it's not solely due to the demise of the nation."

The destruction of a nation sounds like a very serious matter. However, battles between humans and human nations have a long history. Many nations have perished throughout history. Aside from those like the Magic Empire, which were wiped out due to special circumstances, most wars between nations ultimately boil down to territorial conquest and the control of their people. To put it bluntly, while no one wants their nation to perish, if forced to choose between undead and humans, most would choose the former, much like the difference between an ordinary person and a mage. Most people don't understand magic and naturally fear it. Undead, on the other hand, are not only incomprehensible but also bring death and fear. Li Lin hasn't yet implemented a concrete national plan, so the outside world knows nothing about the Magic Empire's true situation. Under these circumstances, allying with a nation teeming with undead and ghosts is extremely dangerous.

From the conversation just now, Li Lin had already determined that this was a plan that was entirely advantageous to the other party.

The fact that the second princess, of such high status, was specially dispatched already demonstrates the seriousness of the matter and the respect and trust placed in the Magic Empire. This princess also possesses rich diplomatic experience. Although the shock she experienced upon arriving in the Magic Empire slightly affected her performance, she remained a very intelligent envoy. Her diplomatic skills were impeccable. Moreover, according to the intelligence gathered by Nia, while this approach might seem like pushing the princess into a fire pit, the reality was quite different.

In the worst-case scenario, Li Lin might reject the alliance proposal, imprison the princess for his own use, or simply kill her. This wouldn't be a big deal for a nation on the verge of collapse. After all, once the city falls, the fate of the common people aside, the royal family and nobles would be extremely tragic. Like this princess, becoming a lowly female slave would be almost certain. In any case, at that time, she would still be a man's plaything, it wouldn't matter where she was.

Thinking a step further, Li Lin might agree to the other party's proposal and then annex the country, a risk that cannot be ignored. However, this would be no different from Kudel occupying the other side; it would simply be a matter of changing hands sooner or later. As for the common people—that's probably not a concern for the royal family. Defeated royalty will face a tragic fate wherever they are. If Li Lin were to carry out a massacre like he did with the Five-Nation Alliance, these royalty might actually be willing to have a few more people die with him.

The best-case scenario would be for Li Lin to agree to their request and send troops to assist them in defending against Kudel's attack. Of course, there's no such thing as a free lunch. In terms of military and material strength, the Magic Empire far surpasses the Sea-Encircled Country. However, such a small country doesn't really have anything to offer. Moreover, considering that they specifically sent a princess this time, it's likely that they intended to "pay a reward." Sacrificing a member of the royal family in exchange for the safety of the entire country is quite a bargain.

Therefore, people who give up entirely are the most difficult to deal with.

Li Lin briefly shared his thoughts with Nia, then frowned.

"I don't know if that princess considered these complicated reasons, or if she simply thought her country was on the verge of destruction and was desperately trying to grab onto a lifeline. But the person behind her is definitely very troublesome. The worst-case scenario is the destruction of the country, and he's now betting the entire nation on roulette. Clearly, he's a very ambitious person."

"Do you hate people like that, Li Lin?"

I don't dislike ambitious people, but I dislike people who can't be controlled.

Li Lin quickly gave an answer to Nia's question.

"A guy willing to gamble with the entire nation is no easy opponent. Although killing him would be as easy as crushing an ant for us, it's clear he's disregarded life and death. He's willing to sacrifice anything to get what he wants. Moreover, he's practically offering an 'unconditional' alliance. If we accept, they're likely to guess our diplomatic and political intentions. If we were truly evil mages, that would be one thing. But if they perceive our political needs, they could easily exploit it. Once we ally with them, we'll be responsible for them. This isn't just about helping them defend themselves; it will be difficult to retaliate if they do anything we don't want them to do. Otherwise, other countries seeing this will question and damage our diplomatic sincerity."

So, what do you plan to do?

"Let's see how things go first, but... perhaps we shouldn't make choices passively."

As he spoke, Li Lin stood up.

Where is Angela?

"A 'cleanup' operation is underway."

Nia answered, then her eyes widened slightly in surprise.

"Li Lin, are you planning to put Miss Angela in charge of this matter?"

"The best way to deal with an ambitious person is to find someone whose ambition far surpasses theirs, and in this respect, the little guy's ambition is almost unmatched."

Li Lin slowly stepped down from the throne, a smug smile on his face.

"Their audacious idea of using me is commendable, but not something to be publicized. While we are not irredeemable villains, we are not paragons solely concerned with maintaining a good image either. Trying to take advantage of the Magic Empire is premature for these people. Moreover, Angela's delicate identity can help me solve the following problem. She is a familiar, but she holds no official position, which isn't ideal..."

"Then, how about we make Miss Angela your wife?"

Nia's unexpected suggestion left Li Lin speechless.

"You're not kidding, are you?"

"I was just kidding."

Facing Li Lin's somewhat surprised gaze, Nia chuckled and nodded, replying, "Indeed, it was just a joke. Everyone knows that Arcane Mage are the true rulers of this country. In a magical world with an administrative system so different from other nations, there is no such thing as an 'empress.' It was the same during the Magic Empire era; the thirteen Arcane Mage were mostly single. Although they occasionally sought solace, it didn't mean they had to marry. Moreover, given the long lifespans of Arcane Mage, seeking human marriage would be nothing short of self-torture. Furthermore, Arcane Mage are essentially monsters devoted solely to magic; for a long time, a partner is merely a diversion, not an indispensable necessity. Take Li Lin, for example; he's slept with many women, but almost none of them have worked for him."

Aside from the traditional issues, if Angela were to conduct diplomacy as a "Queen," it would be giving the other side far too much treatment. The Magic Empire is a powerful nation, while the Sea-Encircled Country is merely a small country. When a small country sends an envoy to a large country, the more distinguished the person, the better. However, when a large country sends an envoy to a small country, the person cannot be too distinguished, otherwise, it might inadvertently elevate the other side's status.

This is also why Li Lin Angela to go on the trip in his place. As his familiar, her status wasn't low, but she didn't have a formal "title," so her presence on the surface wasn't particularly impressive. Familiars are basically assistants to mages, so going to these small countries wouldn't overly elevate or diminish their status. Li Lin also knew that Angela possessed considerable intelligence, only it was masked by her usual tyrannical and bloodthirsty personality—plus, the little one loved manipulating others. If he could use this trip to completely control their minds, it wouldn't be a bad solution.

"Then, I'll accompany Miss Angela this time."

Now that the main candidates have been chosen, the next step involves some more detailed issues. Nia offered suggestions first, after all, she was confident in her ability to get along with the little one. Moreover...

"The Magic Empire is currently in a critical period of reconstruction, and you have a lot of work to handle. Moreover, as the head of the Seven Ring Spirit Envoys, it is not appropriate for you to participate in this visit as Angela's deputy. Otherwise, it would inadvertently elevate Angela's status, which could potentially have a negative impact."

Li Lin's concerns were not without merit. After all, the reason he brought Angela along this time was precisely because he was certain that the other party had no idea whether this "familiar" held a high or low status. If Nia were to make the visit, it would be tantamount to confirming that Angela possessed a considerably high position. After all, the Seven Ring Spirit Envoys were quite famous figures in legends, and for Nia, as the leader of the Seven Ring Spirit Envoys, to make the visit as her deputy would be tantamount to telling others that Angela's status was far above that of the Seven Ring Spirit Envoys, and that she was an important figure in the heart of the Magic Empire.

"So, who should go? We can't let Miss Angela go alone... If we let her bring a bunch of undead creatures, that would cause problems."

Anna is out of the question. Although Nia and Suoxiate say they get along very well as long as Li Lin isn't around, Li Lin knows Anna perfectly well; she's completely politically inept. Besides, Anna is currently busy rebuilding her personal guard and can't leave. As for Kalin, forget about her. They'd probably start fighting halfway there, and Kalin's carefree personality isn't suited for serious diplomatic occasions. Suoxiate, while capable, is, like Nia, an indispensable intelligence gatherer in the Magic Empire and can't be absent. And as for Yi Aier...

"Speaking of which, what has Yi Aier been busy with lately?"

Although she is his maid, Yi Aier is also an expert in magical weapon research, and she hasn't been seen for a while.

"As for Yi Aier, she's currently researching a new magical weapon, which, according to her, seems to be extremely useful... something like a chariot..."

It seems that the delusional maid doesn't just use her imagination on trivial things.

"Since that's the case, there's nothing we can do..."

Li Lin frowned and rubbed his forehead in frustration. Although he could have mobilized the sisters, they were now familiar with life at the academy, and the academy's security depended on their surveillance. Therefore, Li Lin did not want to mobilize manpower during this critical period.

"Then let's see how capable Angela is this time."

In the end, he could only sigh helplessly and then make a decision.

At Li Lin's summons, Angela quickly returned to the Ringwraith City, but upon hearing Li Lin's command, she revealed an extremely wicked smile.

"I see, I understand what you mean, Master."

Although she can no longer kill people, judging from Angela's expression, she has clearly found a new toy.

If you understand, I don't think I need to say anything more.

Li Lin patted Angela's head, then his right hand gently stroked her long hair.

"You need to change your attitude, and also change the way you speak. You absolutely cannot let those guys have any confidence in your strength or status, understand?"

"Certainly."

Angela slightly, but soon, a greedy glint appeared in her eyes.

"But Master, to maintain that form, I need a great deal of blood and power..."

"I knew you'd say that."

As he spoke, Li Lin casually took out a ring and placed it in Angela's hand.

"This ring can be used to store fresh blood, and it won't spoil... Take only a little, don't drain those two poor bastards dry."

Angela took the ring from Li Lin's hand and examined it closely. This ring was originally created by Evocation School Arcane Mage, intended to store pure elements. After deciding to send Angela on this trip, Li Lin understood that with her enormous appetite, she wouldn't be satisfied with just a temporary transformation. Therefore, he modified the ring to allow it to absorb and store large amounts of fresh blood for Angela's consumption. As for whether Vampire Species only drink human blood, Li Lin wasn't worried at all—back on Earth, Angela had already frequented hospital blood banks for "midnight snacks" more than once.

This beautiful ring was made of white jade, with colorful gemstones set in it, shimmering with beautiful brilliance. It looked small and exquisite, yet noble and elegant. Angela carefully examined the ring, then smiled and put it on the ring finger of her left hand.

"Then, I will go and stock up on food now."

Then, Angela stood up with a smug and happy smile and left the room.

Needless to say, those two poor sisters are about to suffer another major setback.

"Now, it all depends on whether my intuition is correct."

Watching Angela leave, Li Lin shook his head with a wry smile, then looked at Nia, his expression turning serious.

"Then, Nia, please inform that Your Highness the Princess that I am prepared to reply... but before that, please have her come with me to see something."

"Of course, Li Lin."

Nia responded to Li Lin's words without the slightest surprise, clearly having anticipated it.

Princess Shirley, having accepted Li Lin's invitation once again, arrived at the beautiful back garden under the guidance of Suoxiate, where she met Li Lin, who was admiring the scenery.

"Respected Arcane Mage, it is an honor to see you again. May I ask why you invited me here...?"

Watching Li Lin's retreating figure, Princess Shirley stepped forward and gave a solemn bow. She opened her mouth, about to say something, when Li Lin spoke.

"Your Highness, what do you think of the Magic Empire?"

"Why?"

What kind of feelings does this city evoke in you?

"Very beautiful."

Faced with Li Lin's question, the princess did not hesitate for long before giving her answer.

"It's incredibly beautiful, and very... impressive. To be honest, I find it hard to believe that the Magic Empire could be such a beautiful place."

"That's just what your eyes see."

With that, Li Lin turned his gaze away from the boundless sea of clouds and the emerald grassland, and walked to the princess.

"Now, please close your eyes."

"..."

Although she didn't know what Li Lin was going to do, Princess Shirley closed her eyes. Soon, she heard a low chanting sound. Then, the princess felt as if her body was being pulled by some enormous force, and the entire space began to change. Then, in the next instant, the cool breeze disappeared, replaced by dry, hot air and a nauseating smell.

"You can open your eyes now."

As Li Lin spoke, the princess opened her eyes, and then she involuntarily covered her mouth to prevent herself from screaming.

Wreckage, the remains of corpses and houses were everywhere. Black blood had long since become an indelible mark on the earth. Above, thick clouds, carrying endless darkness, oppressed everything, with flashes of red lightning occasionally accompanied by deafening roars. Behind these ruined houses and walls, rotting corpses, yet still moving, lay everywhere. Their eyes, glowing red, stared coldly and with deathly intensity at the two people who had appeared there, before slowly retreating.

"I think that since you've had contact with Angela, you should have witnessed scenes like this."

Li Lin gazed at the dilapidated ruins before him, the last remnants of the city.

"Do you understand, Your Highness? If you want our assistance, then you must be prepared for this."

"..."

I will give you enough time to think.

Li Lin turned around and shrugged.

"I hope you can make the right choice and answer... or at least the right one, Your Highness."

As he said this, he reached out and blocked the princess's view. At this moment, Princess Shirley was also pale from the terrible and boundless death, and her petite and slender body was trembling incessantly.

"Well, it's almost dinner time. I'll be hosting a dinner party to welcome you."