Perhaps other merchants do not know Lynnâs true identity.
But having specifically investigated Lynn, he naturally knows.
The Lynn beside him is the illegitimate son of the former Marquis Donovan of the Ducas Clan.
If Lynn were just a minor lord inheriting a remote territory, living idly, it would be fine.
He wouldnât care at all.
However.
The Lynn before him is a pioneer who has developed and expanded the territory through his own ability.
Perhaps, the labor force on Lynnâs territory is limited, with only ten or twenty thousand people.
Perhaps, the armed forces Lynn possesses are limited, with only a few thousand fully armed soldiers.
Or perhaps, the resources accumulated in Lynnâs territory are limited, needing more time for accumulation and consolidation.
But...
Alan knows clearly that Master Lynnâs territory has salt mines, iron mines, and coal mines!
Such vast lands, and behind the territory runs an inexhaustible river.
Whatâs most crucial is.
Lynn possesses various advanced technologies!
Production tools, land cultivation, and planting...
As long as there is land to plant food.
It can support a large population and livestock.
With advanced technology and given enough time.
One can have an unlimited future!
Would such a lord willingly shrink back to the Empireâs border and remain just a lord?
Lynn turned his head and glanced at Alan but did not immediately answer.
Instead, he asked back: "Isnât Mr. Alanâs dream to become the Brown Clanâs Patriarch?"
Hearing Lynnâs words, Alan was slightly stunned.
Soon.
He came back to his senses and replied, "Of course, Master Lynn."
"Not just me, nearly every young descendant of the Brown Clan wishes to become the Patriarch!"
"Some believe that only by becoming the Patriarch can one become the maker and executor of family rules, not bound by them."
"Some wish to abolish family rules as their first act as Patriarch."
"Some want to break free from the Brown Clan, no longer wanting their fate dictated by the family..."
Lynn did not speak, listening to Alan continue.
"However, I am different from them!"
"After becoming Patriarch, I will continue to act according to the Brown Clanâs rules."
"Even try to enhance and perfect them with my understanding!"
Lynn raised an eyebrow, looking curiously at Alan.
Alan naturally felt Lynnâs gaze.
He didnât mind, leaning back against the wooden chair, continuing.
"The Brown Clanâs rules are nearly ruthless."
"We are victims of these family rules, indeed."
"But how are we not beneficiaries?"
"How does a merchant with no military strength, relying on trading across the continent, protect themselves?"
"How do the Brown Clanâs descendants live without hunger and fear for life?"
"Wearing silk and eating delicacies!"
"What we take for granted, ordinary families could only dream of having."
Alanâs words became forceful!
"Yet now, the pampered descendants, used to good life."
"Facing some unfairness, they want to upend everything."
"They know too well that it is the Brown Clan that gave us everything we wished for."
"Itâs infuriating!"
At this point.
Alan seemed to recall something, his anger slowly subsiding.
He said to Lynn beside him, "Sorry, Master Lynn."
"I lost control for a moment, speaking of some trivial matters in the Brown family..."
Lynn smiled slightly, "Mr. Alan, youâre too kind."
"Itâs just casual conversation, feel free to speak your mind."
Alan nodded gratefully.
Lynn continued, "However, my thoughts may differ from yours, Mr. Alan."
"Because, Iâm not a beneficiary of the rules you mentioned."
"If I were just an ordinary person with no ability, perhaps Iâd have no ambitious thoughts."
"But once I have enough strength, the power to destroy my enemies."
"I would unhesitatingly strike them down."
"This answer, I suppose, is also a response to your previous question."
Listening to Lynnâs calm words, filled with immense power, Alan was slightly taken aback.
Strike them down?
Which means.
One day, Lynn might repay the Ducas Clan for this âfavorâ of exile?
Lynn laughed, "Mr. Alan, thereâs no need to be tense."
"Even if we have differences in beliefs, thereâs one area where weâre remarkably similar."
Alan looked at Lynn curiously, "Oh?"
Lynn explained with a smile, "Interest!"
"At least when making a deal, neither of us opposes the interests we gain."
"I believe, as long as this point of seeking common ground while reserving differences exists, our cooperative dealings can continue indefinitely."
Alanâs eyes lit up, "Master Lynn makes sense!"
Perhaps his relationship with Lynn is far from becoming friends.
At best, they are partners in goods trading and exchange.
But as Lynn said.
Thatâs enough to let them continue their cooperation.
Lynn rose from the bench, "Then, Mr. Alan, I wonât accompany you further."
"If you have any needs, you can find a guard nearby to contact George for arrangements."
Alan also stood up, replying, "Master Lynn, youâre too courteous, this is more than satisfactory."