Xu Shiyan’s eyes narrowed.
If they could bring mercenaries onto the island, what other, more lethal weapons might be waiting for her?
At that moment, Ning Qun and several geological survey experts were being isolated by a wall of mercenaries.
They were few and vulnerable, having never expected to encounter such a force and lacking any means of self-defense. Ning Qun’s expression was one of vigilance and composure rather than fear, while the other experts, unaccustomed to such scenes, were pale with terror, their legs trembling like jelly.
Ning Qun looked at Xu Shiyan, and as their eyes met, her calm, composed gaze put him completely at ease.
"Xu Shiyan, you finally came. I thought you might be too afraid to show up."
An old man with graying temples stepped forward, staring coldly at her.
Xu Shiyan’s lips curled into a faint smile. There was not a trace of fear or hesitation in her eyes as she replied carelessly, "Why would I be afraid? You uncles and elders went through the trouble of bringing such a grand welcoming gift just to see me return to the island—wouldn't it be rude of me to ignore such kindness?"
Aunt Qing frowned at the old man, furious.
"Elder Bai, have you all lost your minds? Aunt Qing stated before she passed that no matter how deep the conflict, we must never resort to force. How dare you bring mercenaries onto the island?"
Elder Bai looked down at her dismissively.
"These men were simply sent by our business partners to protect the mining area and preve…
Chapter 184