If the Great Yi were weak, such threats might not have meant much.But now it stood as a Sacred Court, and the might behind a single decree… was enough to flatten Coconut King Island and exterminate the Zheng Clan.
Even if the Zheng Clan held hidden strength, they could not reverse the outcome.The mere aura behind Mao Sui's words was enough to tighten the hearts of all present.
In the Caribbean Realm, the rumor that the Zheng Clan were pirates was no secret.Though they had never publicly admitted it, back-alley whispers ran rampant.
Fortunately, the Zhengs followed an unspoken code:
The rabbit doesn't eat grass at its own burrow.
Their plunder occurred in faraway zones, sparing their own backyard.This restraint allowed them to maintain legitimacy on Coconut King Island.
Now, however, faced with Mao Sui's words, they absolutely couldn't admit anything.
"Of course," Mao Sui continued, his expression relaxing, his voice softening,"The truth must still be 'carefully examined.'But I believe anyone capable of building a city like Coconut King City, and protecting a million human lives, must possess a kind and benevolent heart."
"Our Great Yi has always treated human factions with benevolence and inclusiveness.Those who choose to join us are granted generous terms and treatment."
His words warmed the room like spring after a brutal winter.The pressure eased immediately.
"Please, Mister Mao," Zheng Zhilong said with a relieved smile,"Join us for the evening banquet. Though Coconut King Island is no paradise, I promise our dishes will not disappoint."
From Mao Sui's tone, he could tell this was not a death sentence.If the Sacred Court wanted them dead, it would've sent an army, not one man.
Zheng Zhilong had survived this long for a reason—he wasn't stupid.
Inside the City Lord's Manor, the banquet was already prepared.
The chefs were clearly talented, the dishes artfully crafted and mouthwatering.Only the best of Coconut King Island was laid out for this guest.
Mao Sui picked up his chopsticks and sampled a few dishes, silently nodding.Indeed, the food was excellent.
Because of Yi Tianxing's own love of gourmet cuisine, all court officials in Great Yi had developed refined palates.Their standards were high—spoiled, one might say.
"Excellent. This coconut chicken has a distinct flavor. And the coconut crab—tender, sweet, very rare.If the Sacred King knew of it, I'm sure he'd want to try it personally."
"Ah, our island's coconut crabs are known for their size and flavor," Zheng Zhilong said, eyes lighting up."If His Majesty ever enjoys them, it will be the highest honor for Coconut King Island."
Yi Tianxing's love of fine food was widely known, even in nearby realms.To be praised by Mao Sui was an opportunity to rise overnight.
"Tell me, Lord Zheng—what are your thoughts on the future?"Mao Sui asked casually.
Zheng Zhilong's eyes flickered, then he replied:
"There are countless pirates in the Caribbean.The land is fragmented and plagued by monsters, beasts, and demons.All we've ever wanted was a small haven.If possible, I would love nothing more than to live in peace and enjoy family life, free of worry or fear.I just wonder if such a future is even possible."
"You're selling yourself short, Lord Zheng," Mao Sui said with a smile."Not only do you have a chance to enjoy peace and prosperity—you may yet become famous throughout history."
"Please explain," Zheng Zhilong asked respectfully.
"The pirate invasion of our Iron-Blood Great Wall enraged the Sacred King," Mao Sui said solemnly."He has not yet acted only because his focus is on Bohai Realm.But once Bohai is secured, the Caribbean Realm will be next.All pirates will be eradicated.This realm will become Great Yi territory, and its people will become citizens of Great Yi."
"If you, Lord Zheng, distinguish yourself in the campaign to pacify this region,I believe His Majesty will grant you a grander stage."
"For example… leading a naval fleet within Great Yi's military."
"Or… becoming the governor of an Immortal City, ranked third grade, ruling your own domain."
Each word hit the Zheng Clan like a tidal wave.
Their hearts surged with emotion—anxiety, excitement, astonishment.Could they really… become part of Great Yi?
Could they really command fleets?Become city lords?
This wasn't just survival—it was a massive opportunity.
Compared to that, clinging to a pirate fleet and a single island was meaningless.
"Mister Mao…"Zheng Zhilong's eyes gleamed.
"If our Zheng Clan were to help Great Yi persuade other human factions on nearby islands,what kind of reward might we expect?"
Clearly, he was aiming higher—not content with just a naval or local post.He wanted a greater reward, more recognition.
Mao Sui gave him a long, thoughtful look, then nodded inwardly.
Not bad. He's ambitious, but not reckless. No wonder he's ruled the Coconut for so long. A true player, not some two-bit thug.
But that was fine.In Great Yi, if you had talent, you got the stage to show it.
"In Great Yi," Mao Sui explained,"We have a complete, structured system.At its core is the Merit System—the foundation of promotion."
"If one wants to climb the ranks, they must first prove their competence,and then accumulate enough merit."
"Unless the Sacred King personally intervenes, no one rises without merit.Even special cases must make up for it later."
"Merit can be spent to:
enter the Star-Seizing Tower to draw magical treasures
access the Book Repository to exchange for cultivation methods
promote one's official rank
trade for rare items
receive titles of nobility for military service."
"Merit cannot be transferred. It cannot be traded. It can only be earned."
This was common knowledge in Great Yi.
Merit points were tracked through the StarNet system, and every citizen wore a Star-Wrist device.
From above, the Sun Eye and Moon Eye watched all—two omnipresent heavenly eyes recording and verifying merit at all times.
"No merit will be overlooked.No sacrifice forgotten."
That was why countless soldiers fought so fiercely on the front lines—because their efforts would be counted.
"Merit?"Zheng Chenggong's eyes lit up."Mister Mao, if we help convince more factions to join Great Yi, can we earn more merit?And what about persuading pirates—would that count?"
There was a clear note of hope in his voice.
"If pirates repent, change their ways, and earn enough merit to atone,I believe the Sacred King will give them a chance."
"But the crimes they've committed must be paid for.Their fate will ultimately be decided by the Sacred Court," Mao Sui said meaningfully.
Pirates were evil criminals.
Eradication was always preferred. But some pirates were talented. Anyone who could dominate a realm wasn't to be underestimated.
"Mister Mao."Zheng Zhilong suddenly straightened his posture.
"My Zheng Clan is willing to join Great Yi and become citizens.This Coconut King Island can be transformed at a moment's notice.As for the other races on the island—rest assured, they are fully under our control."
"In the surrounding seas, we have close ties with many other factions.We possess detailed nautical maps, and we can send envoys ourselves to help persuade other powers to join Great Yi."
"I believe they will not refuse."
After all… they knew full well what refusing would mean.