"You don't have to worry," Mary said. "The island is only Duria's territory on paper. Their influence is next to nothing in this region."
"What happened?"
"Decades ago, Duria and Ceraisian Empire were at war with each other. The battle was mainly at sea, and both sides tried to reach the other's land using ships. But they both failed. This island was once a key point for Duria to attack the Ceraisian because it's only 200 miles from Ceraisian's territory."
"And why did they let go of such a strategic spot?"
"You think the Ceraisian's fleet would let its enemies stay right on its doorstep? They used everything to destroy Duria's facilities in this place, and the struggle was so fierce that Duria didn't think it'd be worth it to occupy this island anymore. After that, the native people on this island rebuild themselves. Peace came that lasted for more than three decades, and this place became the hub for the west continent and the east continent."
"So the island is rich now?"
"Yes, but it doesn't seem like they have built a powerful fleet to protect themselves."
"Why is that?"
"I don't know. Maybe the Duke will tell you about it."
A few minutes later, they arrived at a well-decorated mansion. It was always nice to look at mansions. And nobles liked to show off their mansion as it indirectly showed their wealth.
When the fancy gate opened itself using magic, a very beautiful lady appeared.
"Welcome to Subiabiterbo, distinguished guests." She greeted them with a friendly smile. "I am Francesca Subiabiterbo, the sole daughter of Rurcam Subiabiterbo, Duke of Subiabiterbo."
"I lost count at how many times you said Subiabiterbo."
Mareona kneed Aldred's arm. "Sorry, he can be a bit rude sometimes, but he doesn't intend to insult you."
Francesca giggled. "Do not be worried. We prefer it if the atmosphere becomes humorous. May I know your name?"
"You can call me Aldred."
Francesca nodded. "As for the ladies and the others, I will get to know you and your name later. For now, please let me bring you inside." She bowed slightly while stealing a glance at Stella. She felt a powerful aura from that woman but did not dare to be rude, so she averted her gaze quickly.
"Alright, please guide us."
"This way."
Meanwhile, the people nearby were talking about Aldred.
"Is that the owner of that fleet?"
"Yes. And he seems to be an influential figure judging by the Duke inviting him to his mansion."
"Are you dumb? Of course, he's influential. His fleet defeated the Red Skull Pirate. They brought two motherships, but his fleet still won."
"Did you know that his fleet is called The Destroyer's Fleet? And the mothership is called Mother of Destruction."
"What a domineering name…"
"I think the fleet deserved that name after the battle against the Red Skull Pirates."
"But I am worried, won't the pirates return for revenge?"
"I don't think so. Ships are expensive to build and repair. They won't move a muscle until The Destroyer's Fleet leaves this island."
…
"I want to ask," Aldred said as they were walking in the garden of the mansion. "The pirates I fought a week ago, what was that about?"
"They are called the Red Skull Pirates, and they always sail around this water collecting protection money from us, but they seem to have a different intention this time."
"What do you mean?"
"I think they want to take over the island. For years, we aren't allowed to build a fleet of our own, or we will be attacked. We have obeyed their order and they let us prosper, but that also means we are under their mercy. If not for you, we might be destroyed by now."
"That's dumb. If they destroy you and take over this island, no one will be willing to go here. This place will be lawless, dangerous, and infested with pirates who will surely scam them and forcefully asks them for money."
"My father and I think the same, but the pirates don't seem to think that far. Although we have a bunch of Diamond Ranks, it will be hard to protect the whole city against a barrage of attacks from the ships."
"Even Diamond Ranks are helpless against ships?"
"Not really. They can run away whenever they want, but the city and the people they left behind will have a tragic fate. It's not that easy to kill a Diamond Rank. A fleet might be enough, but that is the case if the Diamond Rank doesn't choose to retreat. And the number of shells and mana crystals it takes to take a single one of them down would be enormous. It's much more efficient to use another Diamond Rank to kill a Diamond Rank."
"That makes sense," Aldred said, but he noted in his mind that it was possible to kill a Diamond Rank with ships.
"I am going to be straightforward with you. My father wants your help in dealing with the pirates. Of course, we don't expect your help for free. I am sure you know that this is a rich island, the only thing we lack is military power at sea. Our compensation will surely be enough to make you happy."
"Well, if the compensation is good, I don't mind helping."
He had destroyed two motherships and understood that they didn't fare well against enemies boarding their ships. Sure, the pirates might learn their lesson, but Aldred also had more cards under his armpit to use.
Fighting the pirates once again shouldn't be a problem.
Francesca's eyes lit up. She bowed. "Thank you. The people on this island and my father will be very happy to hear this."
Aldred chuckled. "I am not a greedy person, but my subordinates have a big salary, so I expect the compensation to be well-deserved or my subordinates will go crazy. And again, I am not a greedy person."
His women, Bartrem, and the soldiers rolled their eyes. They all knew Aldred loved collecting wealth and hated losing them to any unwanted cause.
"Of course, we will compensate you handsomely. You need not worry. Now please, follow me quickly."
