Chapter 270: She Prefers a Profusion of Flowers
Zhou Bai looked at the proud Viscount Keynes, his lips slightly curled.
Although the other party carried the innate arrogance of nobility, he was also a reasonable person.
Zhou Bai never imposed his worldview on others; after all, they had grown up in such an environment and were enjoying privileges established by their ancestors. To demand others to change was essentially making things difficult for them—how could he expect them to get along if he made things difficult? That's wishful thinking!
All he could do was respect their differences and strive for mutual benefits.
Just agree to disagree!
As for whether the other would be affected, that was beyond what she needed to consider.
"Thank you," Zhou Bai immediately expressed his gratitude with added sincerity.
Viscount Keynes naturally noticed Zhou Bai's sincerity, his expression somewhat surprised.
After all, he had witnessed the scene where Zhou Bai staunchly faced Viscount Wolf, understanding that Zhou Bai was not one to kowtow before nobility—she seemed to have her principles in dealing with matters.
His concession just now was partly because of Zhou Bai's attitude; after all, she had fearlessly offended the aggressive territories, not to mention those ranked lower than Hope Village.
But now, he had stepped back, and her attitude improved?
He was a bit puzzled by this, but he must admit that he found Zhou Bai's approach quite agreeable.
"No need to be so polite; after all, we are also friends," Viscount Keynes said, trying to strengthen his relationship with Hope Village.
Though he wouldn't act as Zhou Bai does, he had to admit, interacting with someone like Zhou Bai was reassuring—there would be no stabbing in the back, at least.
"Yes, friends," Zhou Bai smiled amiably.
Hope Village's future involves doing business, so harmony is fundamental!
And with that, the matter passed.
Guo Yunxiu hadn't expected the issue to be resolved so smoothly and effectively, and her regard for Zhou Bai increased significantly.
Her eyes couldn't hide the admiration when she looked at Zhou Bai.
This friend, she would make!
But it had to be the right moment.
Following this, the remaining lords also picked their desired stalls without further conflict.
The first one to do so could earn the "friendship" of Hope Village, but the second one to do so would just be considered insulting.
After everyone had made their selections, Zhou Bai had a staff member record the information and then led the group to the third floor.
The third floor was an addition made after the last upgrade at the Lord Mansion.
The first floor functioned as an identity registration center, notice board, and space for resident activities.
The second floor housed five large offices, one of which Zhou Bai, as the Village Chief, occupied. The other four were divided among four departments (Military Management, Commercial Management, Personnel Management, and Finance Management).
After redesigning, the third floor also divided into five offices, one guest room, one meeting room, and the three new departments (Education Management, City Construction Management, Security Management Office) took the remaining three offices.
Zhou Bai immediately led them into the guest room.
The guest room's decor leaned toward entertainment, with the whole room primarily in natural wood tones complemented by some white soft furnishings and green plants, creating a soothing visual experience. Entering the room, a sense of coziness enveloped the visitors, softening everyone there.
The lords from the native territories, having visited Hope Village's Wood Workshop, knew that Hope Village's furniture designs were uniquely distinctive. Yet, despite their vast experience, the designs' simplicity still fell short of their standards.
However, looking at how the guest room was laid out, their attention was captured instantly.
Indeed, a good arrangement could indeed be stunning!
Perhaps they could try something similar if they had the chance?
"Please, take a seat," Zhou Bai said casually, settling himself onto a sofa.
Jin Jingshan and others, accustomed to these gatherings, lined up to the right of Zhou Bai, with Bei Wenkang, who had unexpectedly joined in, taking up the last spot in the line.
From the day Viscount Keynes arrived, he had been staying in Hope Village, keeping a low profile. Taking advantage of the gathering, he had followed them up, feeling incredibly fortunate to be part of this "small group."
Leaving aside Viscount Keynes and his entourage, Zhou Bai's side included the top five ranked powers in the Blue Star Territory, each formidable in their own right.