Instigator and Protector of Violence-Chapter 373: [Grace and Power]

The most important person to Wenster is, naturally, Ned.

From any angle, Ethan is deeply bonded with Ned.

The two of them are now inseparable.

The meeting place was still Ned's garden.

However, because it was summer and Ned's house is to the east of Wenster, quite a distance from the sea, it was still somewhat hot.

Fortunately, Ethan brought back several cooling machines from the Royal Capital, and naturally, the best of those was left for Ned.

Once placed in the garden, the heat quickly disappeared.

Ned couldn't help but marvel at the machine.

"The Royal Capital truly is different; everything is so fresh."

It was unclear whether Ned was marveling at the machine or something else entirely.

Ethan chuckled and responded, "No matter how good the Royal Capital is, it's not as dear to me as Wenster; I still prefer Wenster."

This statement made Ned pause for a moment before looking at Ethan and smiling: "You... Here, try this. It's fruit someone brought me from Storm Island, and reportedly, it's not available for purchase anywhere now."

Ethan casually picked up a piece of green fruit resembling mango or papaya and took a bite.

It was indeed an unusual taste. The first sensation was not sour or sweet, but a tingling shock directly to the top of the skull, as if struck by lightning for a brief moment.

Very stimulating and refreshing.

After that, a sweet and sour taste spread.

"Definitely unique."

Ethan nodded but vaguely sensed something else.

The lightning-like sensation seemed to faintly stir the 'True Name of God' as well.

More precisely, it linked to one of the branches of the 'True Name of God,' the power from the King of the Beihai.

This...

"What is this fruit called? How does it have such a flavor?"

Ethan asked again.

"This fruit is called the Thunder Fruit, reportedly only ripening after being struck by lightning. Speaking of which, Storm Island is also a peculiar place, likely related to some relic of true names, though it's currently in the hands of a few countries on the Old Continent, close to it as well, so we can't intervene," Ned thought for a moment and said.

"I see."

Ethan noted the name but couldn't attend to it at the moment. Maybe someday when time allows, he could visit the Old Continent.

"By the way, I brought some things from the Royal Capital, among which there are items someone entrusted me to give to Sofia. Here's the thing... "

Upon hearing this, Ned's complexion immediately turned uneasy.

He clearly knew who Ethan was referring to.

"Have you met her?"

"I have."

"Be cautious; she's not a woman to be trifled with."

Ned spoke with extraordinarily complex emotions.

"Indeed."

Ethan agreed, but he didn't want to aggravate Ned, so he said no more.

"Take those things to Saint Kuanti for Sofia; don't leave them at my house."

"Alright."

"What are your intentions towards my daughter?"

This left Ethan at a loss.

"I..."

How should he say it? In front of her father, he truly couldn't utter any heartless words.

"Forget it; it's your young people's business. I don't want to meddle too much. Just don't hurt her."

Ned's emotions were probably a bit mixed. After finishing, he stood up.

But after taking two steps, he turned back: "Come inside, to my study. It's time we discuss your campaign affairs; time is running out."

This was also the major reason Ethan came to find Ned today.

To campaign for regional councilor, support from all sectors of society was needed, and backing from a major local figure like Ned would certainly be immensely helpful.

Ethan stayed at Ned's house until evening, leaving just before dinner.

Compared to underground warfare, these matters on the surface are far more complex and troublesome.

They can't be resolved through violent means.

Fortunately, after so many days, Ethan had at least garnered considerable prestige in Wenster.

Coupled with his nationwide reputation and Ned's support, entering politics shouldn't be too hard.

Tonight's dinner is also very important.

The Bolita Clan had not gathered for a long time and hadn't really celebrated.

It was time for such a moment of joy.

Hearts grow distant when neglected.

The banquet was held at the Bolita Manor.

This time, Ethan not only invited the core family members but also the middle and low-level leaders within the family.

This was rare.

So those family sub-leaders were very excited, viewing the invitation to attend the banquet at Bolita Manor as an extremely honored qualification.

This is the influence of the family.

This signifies the founding of the Kingdom.

Ethan naturally understood the deeper meaning, so he let Anya make the process quite proper and grand.

After all, Ethan had been immersed in the Royal Capital for three months and participated in various gatherings to some extent. Anya, having followed along, also experienced many things.

So arranging it properly was absolutely achievable.

Not to mention the Bolita Clan's middle and low-level sub-leaders, even the dignitaries from Winster City invited this time would likely feel a sense of inferiority when stepping into Bolita Manor.

This is the nobility of the Royal Capital.

Many people even took the trouble to wear formal attire, but still seemed out of place.

Amidst the overwhelming formality, Ethan suddenly emerged from the inner room, tapping a spoon against a wine glass to draw everyone's attention.

"Everyone, why so tense? This is our own gathering, lighten up, do what you feel like, relax. Eugene, I heard you dance an excellent belly dance, come on, show us some moves!"

Upon hearing Ethan's words, everyone laughed heartily.

And Eugene, true to being one of Ethan's top three henchmen, showed no reluctance whatsoever, laughing as he stripped off his expensive tailored suit, revealing a slightly plump belly, and moved into the spotlight.

He made a stylish snap toward the band hired for the event, saying: "Music, please!"

With the music starting and Eugene's belly shimmying, everyone finally relaxed, immersing themselves in the cheerful atmosphere.

Ethan was quite satisfied with the scene.

To have a group of people genuinely recognize the family and feel a sense of family honor from the heart, both grace and power are indispensable.

As the belly dance approached its finale, as everyone laughed and some even started cursing, Ethan once again tapped his spoon against the wine glass.

"Alright, let's pause the fun for now. Let us welcome our great contributor, the family hero, a true tough guy, Virel!"