Chapter 905 - This Game Is Too Realistic

Chapter 905: Even Future Citizens While Arman argued with the port authority director, the Welland people standing on the deck were equally attentive to the situation onshore. Especially Phili. His ship carried 200 million dinars and 8 million silver coins, he couldn't help but be concerned about their fate. Observing Arman seemingly quarrel with the port authority staff, Phili’s wife's face wore a worried expression. "... Darling, I just have a feeling that they don't quite like us." "Don't like us? Haha... Darling, what a joke. Thanks to those spineless idiots, it's rare to find someone on the eastern Central Continent who doesn’t dislike us anymore." In the past, the Bolo people still had some fondness for them, but due to the southern corps' foolish actions, they lost their only sympathizers. Phili muttered a curse under his breath, his eyes fixed firmly on the distant dock, calculating the possible outcomes. He wasn't here to strike it rich but to seek refuge, and he had considered every conceivable scenario even before setting off, including the one they were now facing. Over five thousand survivors... Any settlement accommodating that many people at once would struggle, not to mention the "notorious" Welland people. That they reached here unhindered seemed a miracle to him. The chief bodyguard beside him wore an anxious expression too. After hesitating for a moment, he lightly coughed and spoke. "... Although it's not my place to suggest, I think you could consider gifting something to the local dignitaries." "As if it’s that simple. Do you think one can just pick a random person and hand them a bag of gold coins?" Throwing this out, Phili continued observing the dock. Compared to Arman and the port authority director, his eyes more frequently rested on another Welland person dressed in a sharp suit, exuding an air of authority. This person arrived here earlier than them and seemed to have integrated well locally, standing next to a “local friend” who also appeared significant. Arman seemed quite familiar with him. Phili mused inwardly that he should find an opportunity to have Arman introduce him to this influential person. At that moment, the situation at the dock changed again. The local friend accompanying his compatriot stepped into the argument between Arman and the port staff. In a few short sentences, the originally domineering port authority director's stance suddenly softened. Phili's eyes lit up instantly, and he looked at Arman's old friend with eager admiration. The chief bodyguard, still not comprehending the situation, continued with comforting words. "Actually, even if Settler One doesn't work out, there are Settler Two, Three..." "If the problems aren't solved, merely escaping solves nothing, whether it’s Settler Twenty or Thirty..." Putting down the binoculars, Phili patted the bodyguard’s shoulder, pulling him aside and pointing towards the deck of the “Rescue Nest” at a sharply dressed Welland man. "Go to the Rescue Nest’s deck and find out that person’s name for me." Though puzzled by his boss's keen interest, the chief bodyguard didn’t question further. "Understood." At this moment, Phili had no idea the man he yearned to connect with had already set his sights on him. However, Henk didn’t immediately have Arman facilitate an introduction to this wealthy newcomer. It would equate to openly declaring an interest in the man's gold. Once a mind harbors suspicion from the start, forging cooperation becomes challenging later. Rather than offering his warm face to a cold reception, Henk preferred the opposite, ensuring the other party would warm up to him first. Truth be told, Henk was quite anxious; his calm facade was all a front. After all, the representative he brought hardly knew him, as they had only met today. Why did the representative agree to help? The reason was straightforward. Henk promised that the loyal and brave Welland people would remember Mr. Gu's kindness today, and following one act of assistance, they would support him entirely in the future. Moreover, he proposed that there was a partner of his on that ship, with whom he intended to build a new, prosperous city in the wilderness to host more refugees fleeing the wasteland. Votes, political achievements, and the honored title of upholding the constitution... even if slightly exaggerated, these returns were tempting enough for the representative. Assisting the Welland people might offend some Bolo extremists, but the potential loss paled compared to the benefits to be gained. Furthermore, those hardliners were notoriously difficult to win over. Their demands were high, expressions intense, quick to forget past favors for the slightest grievance, flipping from extreme support to outright opposition. Appeasing them held no advantage, often requiring sacrificing a forest for a few fragile saplings. The Welland people certainly included such extremists, but none were aboard these twelve ships. Even the most cunning Wellanders from the New World had more faith, credit, and professional integrity than the Bolo people with a thousand gods. Although Henk sensed that Gu Ning didn’t fully buy into his pitch, his eloquence managed to persuade him to end his hesitation and join this muddied affair. He believed that the wealthy man with tons of gold was keenly watching the developments at the dock, especially noticing the one “behind the scenes.” At that point, there would be no need for Henk to speak first; the other party would initiate contact. And then, he could proceed with fulfilling the next promise he made to Mr. Gu! Following Arman’s steps, they treaded onto the deck of the Rescue Nest. As Representative Gu comforted and consoled the ship’s survivors, Arman enthusiastically grasped Henk’s hand. "Thank you! I don’t even know how to express my gratitude. If it weren’t for your representative friend…” “No worries, we share the same blood. Assisting each other abroad is only right, no need for such formality." Henk spoke with righteous assurance, without a hint of shame, as if the representative was indeed moved by his standing to come help. Arman didn’t doubt Henk, grateful for the tremendous help he received. He was just thankful that he had insisted on rescuing people from the sea against all odds. Indeed, good deeds do yield good results. “By the way, since your friend helped us so much, shouldn't we offer some gesture of thanks?” Seeing Arman’s earnest face, Henk laughed, interrupting him. “Please, don’t say such formal things. Speaking for the league citizens is his job… you could think of him as a protector of the people.” Arman was momentarily taken aback. “Protector of the people?” “I forgot you haven’t been to the New World,” Henk tapped his forehead, “You see, if in the Western Corps you encounter issues with the military that can't be resolved, you can find these guys for help; they remember every word spoken by the Marshal, even words the Marshal himself might forget. Though not a guaranteed cure, they’re more effective than praying to the Marshal." “…This, I’ve never heard of.” Arman scratched his head. The Western Corps in the New World. In comparison, his understanding of the Eastern Corps was far better. Previously, he thought the systems of the Four Major Corps were merely modified copies of Kairos City’s, differing mainly in inheritance, without substantial changes. However, to his surprise, their western compatriots introduced new elements too. His assumed “complete understanding” was just a figment of his imagination. Henk grinned, patting his shoulder as he spoke. “In a new place, you’ve got to familiarize yourself with the rules... universally applicable; it’s always proven effective for me.” While Henk reveled in satisfaction, a sturdy man approached from the other side of the deck. Dressed in a lightweight security exoskeleton, he bore the demeanor of a seasoned warrior. Stopping beside the two, he slightly nodded with respect. “Excuse me, are you Mr. Henk?” Henk turned to the person beside him, glanced up and down, and internally had a pretty good idea of what was going on. Yet, he masked his impatience with a polite smile. “That’s me... May I ask who you are?” The man continued courteously. “I’m hired as a bodyguard for Mr. Phili. My boss wishes to have a conversation with you. Could you let me know when you would be available?” So this man’s name was Phili! Henk felt a surge of excitement but didn't agree right away. Instead, he turned a questioning look to Arman beside him, feigning ignorance of the name. Sensing his confusion, Arman courteously introduced, “Phili is a well-known jeweler from Evernight Port... because of recent incidents, he liquidated all his assets there and boarded my ship.” Henk feigned realization and then looked at the bodyguard with sympathetic eyes. “Leaving everything behind at Evernight Port... That must have been quite a tough decision for your boss, right?” The bodyguard hesitated slightly, then smiled bitterly, saying, “Sorry... it's a private matter for our guest. I’m not familiar with the details. Perhaps you could ask my boss directly.” “I’m quite interested in discussing the past, present, and future with him...” Henk nodded, feigning concern. “So please, lead the way.” The bodyguard was taken aback. “Right now?” Henk quirked an eyebrow. “Is now inconvenient?” “Not particularly...” The bodyguard glanced hesitantly at Arman beside them, then returned his gaze to Henk, tentatively saying, “But you suddenly walking away... Is that alright?” “What’s there to worry about?” Henk laughed, glancing at Representative Gu, who was comforting the elderly and children, then at the concerned Arman. “Professional matters should be handled by professionals. With my friend keeping watch, that’s more than enough. Relax... I’ve been here a long time and never seen any department dare to violate rules in front of local representatives, let alone the constitution.” Once Arman was reassured, Henk immediately followed the bodyguard to another nearby ship, where he quickly met the wealthy man with a fortune. As soon as his feet hit the deck, Henk could almost hear his heart pounding wildly. After all, beneath his feet lay two billion dinars worth of pure gold! Even accounting for the military supplies he lost, he had never had so much money! But excitement aside, Henk didn’t let his emotions show. He maintained his courteous smile. In contrast, the wealthy man reacted differently. Upon seeing him, he eagerly reached out, extending his right hand. “Pleasure to meet you! Mr. Henk! I was planning to visit you, didn’t expect you to come in person...” “You’re too kind!” Henk grasped Phili’s hand, laughing heartily in response. Of course, he wouldn't let this man come to his humble abode. After all, even in a society that champions equality, no tycoon would discuss billion-dollar deals in a shared workers' dormitory room. So far, his “performance” was successful; at least he hadn’t exposed himself in front of this benefactor. Phili enthusiastically shook Henk's right hand, wearing a radiant smile as he engaged in small talk. “I hear you’re from the New World?” Henk grinned. “That's right, I’m a resident of the Western Corps, but that was a long time ago... The sea breeze brought me here a while back.” Phili looked at him in surprise. “You’ve obtained citizenship in the alliance?” “Uh... not yet, but that’s not a major issue. Not everyone living in the alliance has alliance citizenship. Plus, my ID is under processing, it’ll be issued soon.” Henk lightly coughed, offering a vague explanation. He didn’t mention his work at the docks, as it wasn’t important. Phili nodded, not dwelling on it. In his eyes, since Mr. Henk could befriend local "big shots," he wouldn’t worry about trivial identity issues. Not being troubled by such matters was good news for himself too. Seeing Phili eager to probe further, Henk deftly steered the conversation back to Phili himself. His greatest interest was the gold on the ship, but he couldn’t directly bring it up without appearing too eager. The best approach was to nudge the conversation naturally towards the gold. If Mr. Phili would request his help, that’d be ideal. “I heard you gave up everything at Evernight Port... What led you to make such a bold decision?” Upon hearing that, Phili’s eyes dimmed, and his wife, standing beside him, lost her radiant smile to a somber expression. Henk realized he’d hit a sore spot and quickly added, “I'm sorry, did I pry into something I shouldn’t have?” “There’s no right or wrong in asking,” Phili squeezed a forced smile, his expression complex, “My two children were killed by those bastards… They fired on the streets, and even aimed at their own people.” Wow... Was the southern corps really that ruthless? Henk was stunned, looking at Phili, and while shocked, attempted to console him. “I’m truly sorry for bringing up painful memories... It's heinous; I can't even express it. Those depraved individuals have shamelessly discarded the honor and faith of the Welland people! That they’d fire on their own is betrayal to the Welland people and betrayal to His Excellency the Marshal!” Phili sneered, his demeanor dark. “Yes, I think so too. They even tried to cover it up. I couldn’t stay there another moment. I sold everything I could liquidate and took all my assets. Even if it means perishing at sea, I’d rather my gold sink to the ocean than leave a single coin to those murderers! They have no faith, but I do.” After pausing, he cast a pleading look at Henk. “However, my wife and I are fortunate, and Mr. Arman is a trustworthy man. Thanks to him, we safely crossed the sea with our belongings... Speaking of which, I could use your assistance with something.” Henk assumed a serious expression, mentally alert. “No need to stand on ceremony, tell me what troubles you. Even if I can’t help directly, I’ll try to find a way.” Phili hesitated, sighed, and spoke. “To be honest, the two billion dinars on the ship are my entire wealth, but they’re also a massive burden... Even if I trust the alliance to be a safe place, it doesn't change that this is the wasteland. Unpredictable events are inevitable here.” Henk nodded knowingly, appearing understanding. “Indeed, that much cash draws attention no matter where it is. If I were you, I wouldn’t feel secure leaving it in a bustling port.” Phili’s face took on a troubled look. “That’s exactly the issue... Do you know of a trustworthy bank?” Henk grinned. “All alliance banks are trustworthy; their risk management is top-notch, and they even insure deposits... But with so much cash, why not consider starting your own bank?” “Starting my own bank?” Phili looked at him blankly, hesitating, “Is that feasible?” In the Conglomerate, electronic payment channels allowed conversion of dinars into silver coins, but it primarily served as a currency exchange platform. Meaning, someone needed to sell off silver coins in exchange for dinars for him to offload such a massive sum. In peaceful times, that’d be manageable with patience. Yet, with the current conflict, he’d have to discount the dinars for quick sale, giving buyers a sufficient incentive to purchase. Seeing Phili’s puzzled expression, Henk chuckled, and clarified further. "The banks in the alliance come in various types. Not every bank is a savings bank; there are also investment banks. All you need is a sound investment target and collateral to back your investment. Opening an investment bank is quite straightforward," Henk explained. Phili seemed puzzled. "Sorry, I don't quite understand..." "Simply put," Henk continued patiently, "you can use your dinars as collateral to obtain a loan in silver coins from an alliance bank." "Collateral? Loan?" Phili looked more bewildered, staring at Henk with wide eyes. "But I just want to deposit the money in a bank." Henk persisted, "That's precisely what I'm addressing, dear Mr. Phili. Although alliance banks offer extensive services, I must be frank: no bank can accept such a large one-time deposit of foreign currency easily, especially not dinars—low in circulation, yet taking up considerable space as a precious metal currency." Phili was stunned. "I can't deposit it?" Henk shook his head. "Oh, you can, but anything over a thousand dinars incurs a ‘counting fee,’ charged as a percentage. As for two billion... no one’s ever deposited that much; I'm not entirely sure. Alternatively, you could rent a vault and pay for its rental periodically, but to be honest, I wouldn't recommend either method." Phili said wryly, "I just want to put my money in a bank. Why is it so complicated?" Seeing Phili’s exasperated expression, Henk chuckled. "It’s quite normal. From a bank's standpoint, you’re depositing not only money but also risk. No one at Settler One would borrow dinars from a bank. If they truly needed dinars, they'd head to Gold Gallon Port or Silvermoon Bay, closer to the corps' markets." "Here in Settler One, the bank can't earn interest off your gold and has to worry about your gold possibly deteriorating or you withdrawing it suddenly for fun... If you were the bank manager, would you agree? Dinars aren't legal tender in the alliance; you can’t simply ask someone to accommodate." As Phili's disappointment deepened, Henk continued warmly, "Mr. Phili, I'm genuinely considering your situation. Rather than selling your dinars cheaply or renting a vault, the best solution is establishing your own bank." Phili sighed, half-smiling. "What’s the difference from buying a vault?" “There’s a big difference,” Henk asserted seriously. “The main distinction is that you won’t need to discount your dinars. Instead, you can use them as collateral, securing a large loan in silver coins at market rate.” "And pay significant interest on that loan?" Phili responded instinctively. "I might as well just let them earn a counting fee." Henk grinned. “It’s merely four percent interest. If you invest in Settler One's infrastructure, the rate could even be reduced.” Phili held his breath momentarily at the thought of two percent interest! It sounded... surprisingly appealing! The best part was that by using these dinars as collateral at the bank, he wouldn’t need to worry about their safety—the bank would. It resembled depositing money in a bank, but not quite the same! "It sounds intriguing, but such a large loan means a sizable annual interest—" "As long as the return rate exceeds two percent, everything beyond that is profit! My friend, this is Settler One in the Alliance; achieving a return of over two percent annually is almost effortless," Henk replied with a smile. “I won’t mention other opportunities, but I have a project offering a return of three to four percent. If you can’t find alternatives, consider investing in my project.” Phili felt a momentary alarm but, recalling this compatriot's capabilities locally, subconsciously trusted him somewhat. “Your project? What is it?” Wearing an air of patriotic concern, Henk cast his deep gaze towards the restless sea. “In just a day, over five thousand compatriots have arrived at this port. If the conflict persists, many more will find themselves homeless. I can’t stand idly by as compatriots sleep on the streets. I plan to construct a new home for them—a community suited for Welland people’s lifestyle here. Of course, other wasteland visitors are welcome, should they like us.” “As for the name... let's call it Welland Street for now.” Phili looked at Henk in amazement, surprised by his breadth of vision and ambition. Though, on reflection, the project might indeed be profitable. After all, far more wasteland survivors detested Wellanders than liked them. In the same position, he too would prefer living among compatriots rather than near the Bolo people. “But... will the alliance allow it? A name like Welland Street?” Henk couldn’t help but chuckle. “Why do you ask such questions? Not only Welland Street, but even naming it Kairos City's Street wouldn’t bother anyone, I bet.” As Phili considered the proposition, back on the Rescue Nest’s deck, having consoled the refugees, Gu Ning returned to Arman’s side to discuss plans with the "Rescue Nest" captain. “Over five thousand refugees pouring in at once would be a heavy burden for any settlement,” Arman stated nervously. “But you have a plan, right?” Arman looked hopefully at Gu Ning. Gu Ning nodded. “I have ideas, but we need to discuss it further. It might involve not only these five thousand, but more Welland people.” Arman listened intently. “Please, go on!” Unlike some, Gu Ning straightforwardly conveyed the Welland Street project, which he’d previously discussed with Henk. “Settler One lacks the budget to build you a dedicated community, and other representatives wouldn't allow it... With limited resources assigned to us, many still sleep in containers. Granting you preferential treatment would place others on long waiting lists. Over time, those who initially sympathized would resent the line-cutting.” “I understand,” Arman nodded. “We don’t seek preferential treatment, just equality.” Gu Ning praised Arman’s perspective, “I’m glad you see it this way, proving that you’re not exploiting us but genuinely joining our cause.” “We’ve essentially found a solution here, haven’t we? As long as you don’t deplete local resources, most would be willing to help, and detractors would lack grounds for complaint... And your friend Henk cleverly proposed an excellent idea.” “Based on his suggestion, I plan to draft a proposal to designate a new district next to Settler One, offering low-interest loans, tax breaks, and other supports for you to build your new home.” Arman, equally astonished as Phili, looked at Gu Ning. “Is this really possible?” Gu Ning smiled gently, speaking warmly. “Helping solve problems for the alliance's citizens is my role.” “Even for future citizens.” To be continued.