Chapter 440

The helicopter droned on, its buzzing a persistent sound. Tiffany fell asleep twice, each time waking after only a few minutes. She estimated they had been flying for a considerable time. "Considering the initial distance, we should reach the Azure Sea Royal Family's territory in two hours, right?" she mused. She hesitated, then decided against asking.

Unexpectedly, the man beside her anticipated her question. "We'll be there soon," he explained. "The helicopter will land shortly to refuel, then we can fly directly to the Azure Sea Royal Family's estate." Tiffany tilted her head, offering a serious "Thank you, Jumbo."

Kenneth thought, Jumbo? He was speechless. When Tiffany had asked his name earlier, he'd struggled to think of a believable alias and, in his haste, had blurted out the first thing that came to mind. I regret it now, he thought. This name sounds so silly. But I'm even sillier!

Jumbo (Kenneth) nodded awkwardly. "You're you're welcome"

Tiffany continued, "Once we reach the Azure Sea Royal Family's estate, I'll leave. You can continue with your business. If there's a future opportunity, I'll repay this favor." She thought, The people trying to kill me won't stop. Staying with these villagers might endanger them.

Jumbo panicked. "You can't leave alone! How could I be at ease?" He quickly corrected himself. "I mean, I want to see this good deed through"

"There's no need," Tiffany replied indifferently, her usual calm and unhurried tone brooking no argument.

Jumbo, knowing he couldn't dissuade her, simply nodded. "Alright then." He thought, If worst comes to worst, I'll have someone follow her from a distance.

After another few hours of flight, the helicopter crossed the sea and landed beside a magnificent island. Its size was immense, its boundaries unseen. The surrounding water was a deep blue, teeming with strange, unfamiliar plants.

Kenneth helped Tiffany disembark and described the surroundings. Still uneasy, he added, "My fellow villagers will buy the herbs; I'll go with you." Tiffany started to refuse, but Kenneth immediately fastened a bracelet around her wrist—a child's leash.

Now it was being used to restrain her. A mix of annoyance and amusement flickered across Tiffany's face. She had no choice but to let him lead her, finding the situation rather humorous. "Where did you get that?" she asked.

"Found it in the helicopter's junk." Kenneth chuckled, his handsome face alight with amusement, though the glint in his eyes soon dimmed.

He’d never imagined spending conflict-free time alone with Tiffany, becoming her only confidante. This was something he hadn't dared dream of. He was glad he'd accompanied her, even glad for her blindness, which afforded him this opportunity. But it was fleeting. After returning to Lovell City from the Azure Sea Royal Family's estate, they would return to being strangers. A hint of bitterness touched his handsome features. He just wished time would slow down.

Tiffany, guided by Jumbo's descriptions, formed a mental image of the Azure Sea Royal Family's estate. It wasn't just an island; it was immense, facing the sea at the front and backed by an endless valley. Tall buildings studded the landscape, adorned with pearls and gems. It was magnificent, luxurious, and beautiful—a pity she couldn't see it.

As they approached, the sounds of gemstone cutting intensified. From afar, she heard excited shouts: "It's cut! It's a pink diamond!"

Kenneth looked around and asked Tiffany, "Are you tired? We can find a hotel, rest, and then set off."

"No," Tiffany replied firmly. "I can't wait. Let's go now."

"Where?"

"I heard about the Azure Sea Royal Family's Treasure Pavilion. Reach the top, and you can request any treasure."

Kenneth was shocked. Even he had heard of the Pavilion's brutal challenges, with each level more difficult than the last, claiming the lives of many determined challengers.

"No way!" he countered. "It's too dangerous. You can't see! You'll die!"

Tiffany smiled, her determined face betraying no fear. "I'm going." I have to go, she thought. The herb I need is extinct, but the Azure Sea Royal Family must have it. If I want it, I must pay the price. Forget the danger; I have to try.

"You" Kenneth sputtered. "You came here just for the Treasure Pavilion? What do you want?" He almost offered her anything she desired, but stopped himself.

Tiffany didn't hide her intentions. "I need a herb, one only obtainable this way. I need it to save someone. It's a debt I owe"

Kenneth's throat was dry. "Is this person very important to you?"

"Yes," she answered without hesitation.

Kenneth knew who she meant. A deep sadness washed over him. Her words pierced him like an arrow. His own heart ached.

He finally spoke, "I'll go with you then." The Treasure Pavilion was open year-round, allowing teams.

Tiffany attempted to refuse, but Kenneth insisted, "I can guide you. Let me at least be your guide."

Tiffany readily agreed. After grabbing a bite, they headed towards the Azure Sea Royal Family's palace.

News of Kenneth protecting Tiffany reached Morwen in Lovell City. Hearing that Tiffany had arrived at the Azure Sea Royal Family's estate caused a dramatic shift in her expression.