Chapter Twelve: The Bathtub
Komer did not reveal his feelings about the scenes before him; he had mastered the art of keeping his emotions hidden. The dramatic changes on Sifnos Island had further deepened his impression of Hairedin. There must be many talented people around Hairedin who were able to create such remarkable achievements in such a short time. Even with substantial financial support, it would still be extremely difficult.
An island with such a favorable location yet left unused for so long was largely due not only to the decline of the city-state of Tyros but also to its rugged terrain. To transform it into a useful trade hub, this major challenge had to be overcome first. It seemed that Hairedin had succeeded in this regard. By using the funds he provided to develop his fleet over time and by incorporating the fleet strength of Demisheme, the previously uninhabitable waters became navigable, allowing him to vigorously develop shipping along the coasts of the Storm Ocean, the Midland Ocean, and between the vast continents, turning Sifnos Island into a shining gem in the Midland Ocean.
The carriage moved smoothly along the stone path. Although it was not as good as the streets of towns like Ugru and Matdan, it satisfied Komer greatly. After circling Sifnos Island along the stone path, he saw that the island was full of vitality. The spacious squares in the center and numerous buildings were all built on slightly undulating hills, with the land leveled to create relatively flat areas—a considerable engineering feat. Many merchants traded here, and its prosperity was hardly inferior to that of cities like Odessa.
After completing his round, Komer returned to the dock. His gaze fell on the fleet hidden behind a rugged hill in the distance. “Hairedin, is that your fleet?”
“Yes, my lord. Our main fleet is usually stationed there, separated from merchant ships. It’s a military restricted area; unauthorized persons are not allowed to enter.” Hairedin nodded. “Our ships that set sail will pass through the merchant ship routes from time to time to strengthen patrols, preventing other forces from filling the gap left by Demisheme’s withdrawal. Only our forces are allowed in this area.”
“What about the naval activities of the countries in the Midland Ocean?”
“They rarely venture outside their actual control areas, spending most of their time patrolling their own coastal zones. There are few conflicts with us. How should I put it? There’s a silent understanding—they accept our presence, and we respect their rights, after all, we’re not pirates anymore. To be precise, the fleets of these city-states and countries are no longer true war fleets; they’re more like coast guards. They might be able to capture smugglers, but if faced with a real fleet, their only outcome would be destruction.”
Komer nodded. “What about the north?”
Haiding understood what Komer was asking. “The Kars fleet is still mainly focused on fighting against the remnants of the Gray Skulls. Although the Gray Skulls are at a disadvantage, they haven’t disbanded yet. I suspect they may have received support from other forces. Additionally, the Kars fleet has suffered heavy losses from the magic-powered cannons and still can’t achieve a decisive victory. We’ve maintained good relations with the Kars fleet. There’s an established boundary line in the north, and generally, neither side crosses it.”
Komer turned around and looked straight at him. Haiding remained calm under Komer’s gaze.
“Haiding, is there anything else you need to tell me?”
“My lord, I have one more request. I hope you’ll focus more attention on the Vast Continent. It’s gradually becoming a hot spot for explorers and colonists from various coastal countries and city-states. We can’t fall behind in this competition—it would be a lasting regret for us. We already have Sifnos Island as our best supply base. With enough attention, especially on the eastern coast of the Northern Mid-Sea, that region will become our domain.”
“Haiding, I can’t put into words the achievements you’ve made. All I can say is that you’ve done excellently. I’m proud of you. If the Barbalosha family doesn’t have someone like you as a member, it will surely be a lifelong regret for them. Sifnos Island has become a rising star in the Southern Mid-Sea in such a short time. You and your companions have put in unimaginable effort and sacrifice. I think you truly deserve the title of viscount.”
Komer didn’t have any passionate words, but his gentle and kind speech was like a gushing hot spring flowing into Haireding’s heart. All the hard work over the past year and a half hadn’t been in vain; being recognized by Komer filled Haireding with greater satisfaction than any praise from others. Komer had never inquired about the whereabouts of the funds he provided, nor had he asked about the condition of his fleet or the development of the island of Sifnos. All this meant he had complete trust in Haireding, and he fulfilled all of Haireding’s conditions without any hesitation—this was the true foundation of his success.
“Lord, I won’t say anything unnecessary. It is because of you that I and my brothers and companions can realize our dreams. Our only dream now is to turn the entire Mid-Sea into your bathtub, so that you can wash your noble military boots anywhere in this ocean.”
After taking a deep breath, Haireding replied to Komer in a calm and steady voice.
A flash of brilliance passed through Komer’s dark eyes, and his gentle smile became even more handsome. Even Finitz, who had always been by Komer’s side, hadn’t seen him smile so beautifully for a long time. At that moment, she suddenly realized how attractive the usually indifferent lord looked when he smiled, like a golden arrow suddenly piercing her heart and causing ripples.
Komer silently patted Haireding’s broad shoulder, smiled slightly, and looking at the group of strong and distinguished men behind Haireding, he said loudly, “Why don’t you introduce me to your good brothers?”