The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1634

Arabella stepped off the plane, immediately feeling her mother's warm concern through a text message. After sending a quick reply, she looked up and saw her right-hand man, Horace, waiting to pick her up.

"Boss," Horace couldn't help but notice something different about Arabella the moment he laid eyes on her. It wasn't just her change in fashion; her usual icy aura had thawed, replaced by a lively sparkle in her eyes and an air of refined grace. She was breathtaking.

Horace, who rarely got the chance to be in her presence, couldn't suppress his goofy innocent smile. He had always envied Jack and Jones for sticking close to the boss, facing danger by her side, while he was often dispatched elsewhere. He learned things related to the boss from other buddies of his, and had only recently heard the gossip about her love life.

Once in the car, Horace reported the situation, "Boss, we still haven't secured Els Island. There's this guy, Sean. Without his say-so, we can't make a move."

Els Island boasted a unique climate and pristine environment, perfect for cultivating delicate herbs, including some rare varieties that were crucial for Arabella's research.

Take hairyvein agrimony, for instance. Previously, Arabella needed a concoction of over a dozen herbs to replicate 80% of its effects. But on Els Island, hairyvein agrimony was abundant, mistaken for a common weed due to its unassuming appearance.

Arabella had hoped to acquire the island at a modest price, letting its natural herbs flourish while introducing other sensitive plants for her research.

"What's Sean's deal?" Arabella inquired with detached curiosity.

Horace had no clue, "Only know he's a big shot here. Everyone speaks of him with reverence. He's a mystery, rarely seen, and Els Island is in his grip. His men have jerked us around; we've been outplayed at every turn and haven't secured the deal."

The island was a treasure trove of botanical potential for Arabella, both for the inherent value of the herbs and the research opportunities they presented.

"Negotiate again, and be prepared to raise the offer."

"Understood."

As Horace drove, he glanced at the rearview mirror before adding, "Oh, and boss, the seller agreed to part with the medicine you want, but insists you pick it up personally."