161: Duke of the Stars

dawn calendar Year 31617, Star Sea Calendar Year 16. June 1st, "Star Sea Day" had arrived once again.

Compared to previous years, this year's celebrations and deliberations held a particularly different significance. All high-level officials of the Star Sea Territory, including generals and officials stationed in distant new territories, had received strict orders to return to the Lord's Castle on Star Sea Island without fail.

After another large-scale expansion, the Lord's Castle had become increasingly magnificent in its Aura. Half a month ago, the decree and full ceremonial regalia from the Aolai Kingdom, conferring the title of Duke upon Lynn, had been personally delivered by the Chief Court Mage and Legendary Expert, Grand Archmage Gordon. No one knew the specifics of what Lynn and Gordon discussed during their hour-long secret meeting; they only knew that when Gordon departed, this usually aloof Grand Archmage wore a rare, thoughtful, and satisfied expression on his face.

At this moment, replacing the original meeting hall was a more spacious and solemn "Star Sea Great Hall." The hall was built with giant gray-white stones, featuring a high, wide dome embedded with magic crystals that simulated a starry Sky, casting soft light below. At the furthest end, atop three steps, sat three massive chairs.

The central main seat was the Duke's throne, carved entirely from "Star Sea Stone"—a specialty of Star Sea Island that shimmered with deep blue-purple light. Its lines were resolute, and its Aura majestic. To the left and right of the throne were two slightly smaller but equally luxurious and exquisite side seats, occupied by Aivi and Elise.

They were not only Lynn's wives but also core decision-makers who held actual power and were deeply trusted within the Star Sea Territory. Aivi was surrounded by her unique light blue halo, looking incredibly holy; Elise wore a faint smile and possessed a powerful presence. The three of them sitting together symbolized the stability and unity of the Star Sea Territory's highest power.

On both sides of the hall, instead of the standing formation seen in the Aolai Royal Court, comfortable velvet sofas and wide metal long tables were neatly arranged. This was Lynn's consistent style: pragmatic, efficient, and respectful. He insisted that these core members, who worked tirelessly for the territory, should be able to sit comfortably while discussing matters, and the long tables made it easier for them to place and consult various documents and materials. At this moment, the sofas and long tables were filled to capacity.

On the civil official side, Morton and Payson led the way. On the military side, legion commanders such as Clay, Ocean Jack, Angus, Karl, Evan, and Shirei had all returned.

Notably, several new faces had joined this meeting. The Werewolf King Jokic and the Werewolf General Wade, who had just achieved a Breakthrough to the Peak of the Sky rank, sat somewhat stiffly near the military side. This was their first time participating in such a high-level formal meeting, and facing so many human experts and sages, they were inevitably a bit ill at ease. Fortunately, Batu and Augus—who were also of Orcs descent and had now fully integrated into the Star Sea system—had enthusiastically introduced the personalities and deeds of their colleagues before the meeting. They constantly reassured them, saying, "The Lord is very easygoing; everyone looks only at ability, not origin," which finally put the two Werewolf leaders a bit more at ease.

As Lynn entered the hall with his two wives and took his seat on the throne, everyone in the hall—regardless of whether they were civil or military, human or foreign race—rose in unison. They clenched their right fists, struck their left chests heavily with a synchronized dull thud, and then knelt on one knee.

“Greetings, Duke of Star Sea!” The sound echoed through the hall, filled with heartfelt respect and loyalty. This salute was both a celebration of Lynn's formal conferment of the Dukedom, making him the third nominal Grand Duke of the Aolai Kingdom, and an absolute recognition of his leadership in bringing the Star Sea Territory to this point.

“Everyone, rise and be seated,” Lynn’s voice, calm yet clear, reached everyone's ears.

The crowd sat down as told, the sofas making slight sounds as all eyes focused on the three people atop the steps.

Lynn’s gaze slowly swept over every face below, some familiar and some slightly unfamiliar; these were the foundation upon which the Star Sea Territory had risen. He got straight to the point:

“I have gathered you all today primarily to discuss two things. First, the future development plan for the Star Sea Territory. Second,” he paused, seeing the anticipation in many eyes, “is... the rewarding of merit.”

As soon as the word "reward" was spoken, the atmosphere in the hall became noticeably more lively and excited, especially among the old subordinates who had followed him for a long time and knew that Lynn was clear about rewards and punishments and was generous in his dealings.

Lynn raised his hand slightly to signal for silence, his gaze first turning to the Chief of Civil Affairs, Morton: “Morton, tell us first about the development status of Star Sea Island and its surrounding islands.”

Morton stood up immediately. Although reporting while seated was the custom, he still maintained a respectful posture for such an announcement of major matters: “Reporting to Your Grace. Following your previous plan, over the past few years, we have concentrated manpower and resources to complete the comprehensive basic development of thirty-six small islands surrounding Star Sea Island. These islands range in size from one hundred to three hundred square kilometers and have varying terrains, but all have been cleared of dangerous creatures. Basic docks, freshwater facilities, and farmland have all been reclaimed.”

He paused, his tone carrying the satisfaction of completing a major task: “It can be said that these thirty-six islands have transformed from deserted islands into precious territories with preliminary conditions for survival and development. They are like thirty-six stars guarding our main island, Star Sea.”

“Very good.” Lynn nodded with satisfaction, then his gaze became solemn as he looked at everyone below. “The Star Sea Territory has reached where it is today because of the joint efforts of all of you and all the inhabitants. These islands are the first and most substantial rewards the territory is granting to those who have made outstanding contributions.”

He raised his voice slightly and announced: “From this day forward, these thirty-six fully developed small islands will be granted as hereditary fiefs to those present and to those who have performed extraordinary service for the territory. The enfeoffed shall have full governance rights, resource development rights, and income distribution rights over their islands. They need only abide by the basic laws of the territory, undertake corresponding military service or material obligations, and ensure the island's development aligns with the main island's strategy. These islands shall share in the joys and sorrows of Star Sea Island, united in honor and disgrace!”

Hereditary fiefs! Full governance rights! Although they had long heard rumors that the Lord might reward them with islands, hearing such a clear, almost feudal method of reward still made their hearts surge. This was not just wealth; it was status, Legacy, and a foundation that truly belonged to them! Especially for many generals and officials present who were not of noble birth but had risen through military merit and ability, this meant their families would truly cross the threshold into the "nobility" and become the new elite within the Star Sea system.

“Thank you, Lord!”

Lynn signaled for everyone to sit down again. Once the atmosphere had calmed slightly, he turned his gaze toward the Werewolf King Jokic and Wade.

“Jokic, Wade. Since the Werewolf Clan joined us, you have fulfilled your duties conscientiously, and recently you have shouldered heavy responsibilities with excellent performance.” Lynn's words made the two Werewolf leaders immediately straighten their backs. “The Kingdom’s Marshal, Legendary Intermediate expert Monde, has personally hurried to Brussels Province. You do not need to fight them head-on; focus everything on plundering the population and drawing them out. Furthermore, all contributions from your tribe will be treated exactly the same as everyone else's, without the slightest bias.”

“We are willing to die for Your Grace!” Jokic and Wade’s voices were loud, their excitement beyond words. Lynn’s public recognition and promise put their minds completely at ease.