The spatial anchor dispersed its energy into luminous particles as the group descended into the Starskiff Haven of the Xianzhou Luofu.
The air carried a clean scent, underscored by the metallic tang of active docks. Curved structures of jade and steel rose around them, interwoven with floating lanterns and solemnly waving banners. Starskiffs moved in and out without a single superfluous motion.
A youthful figure waited beside a column carved with cloud motifs.
Yanqing stood near the landing point, hands clasped behind his back, his expression balanced between formality and barely restrained enthusiasm.
He lifted a hand naturally when he saw them.
"I see you've arrived without incident. The Luofu welcomes you. Isn't this return a little early for you, Aleph?"
"I just got here and you already want me gone? I'm disappointed, Yan."
"…Seeing you would be more pleasant if it didn't involve administrative issues the General would eventually delegate to me."
Despite his words, they bumped fists, faint smiles on their faces.
March raised an eyebrow at the display.
"It's a little strange seeing you like this." She said while adjusting her bag strap. "Especially considering the last time I saw you together, you were like oil and water."
Yanqing let out a short laugh.
"On the Luofu, we value conversation as much as the sword. We had time to talk and resolve our differences. First impressions aren't always accurate."
"Did something happen for you to personally receive us at the dock?"
"The General sent me to welcome you." Yanqing replied calmly. Then he glanced sideways at Aleph. "And to make sure he doesn't cause trouble."
Three pairs of eyes turned toward him.
Aleph scratched the back of his neck, faintly embarrassed.
"Well… I've been visiting a few places these past weeks." His gaze drifted to a departing starskiff. "I may have stopped by the Luofu too. And did… one or two things here and there."
Yanqing shook his head, amused.
"'One or two things' is the understatement of the century."
March narrowed her eyes.
"What did you do?"
"Nothing that couldn't be settled with a few credits for property damage," Aleph muttered.
Yanqing raised a brow and gave him a look.
"…Lady Yukong stated she might take severe action if she sees you or Qingyi dragging Qingni into your antics again."
March shot Aleph another look he did not dare meet.
Yanqing cleared his throat and adjusted the hilt at his waist.
"If it hadn't been for your message announcing you were on your way, no one would have been here to receive you. After all, there are nearly thirteen days left before the start of the Stellar Skills Tournament. Until then, you'll have to make do with more mundane activities. Don't worry—I've taken the liberty of preparing a tour."
Aleph let out a snort.
"Isn't this just you taking advantage of the situation to get a break and relax a bit, using us as the perfect excuse to escape your busy schedule?"
"…An unfounded accusation against a Lieutenant could lead to your arrest to settle grievances. You know that, right?"
March opened her mouth to ask about the itinerary when a guttural roar tore through the air.
A second later came the sounds of screams, followed by the crash of metal giving way under brute force.
The group turned toward a nearby berth, where structures were visibly collapsing.
"I think it's coming from over there. Stay alert."
They ran after him, weapons ready. As they rounded the pier, they saw the Cloud Knights struggling to contain several hulking, lycanthropic figures. With their claws, the creatures tore through crates and dock structures, forcing their way forward.
"Did they hide in the cargo?" Dan Heng murmured.
One of them lifted a merchant by the throat. Another advanced toward two children frozen in panic.
Yanqing's flying blades fanned out as he pushed off on his sword, rising with a sharp whistle.
The blades fell like cutting rain. A Borisin dropped before completing its charge. Yanqing intercepted the second midair, deflecting the edge aimed at the girl. Sparks burst where sharpened claws met steel.
Cold condensed in Aleph's hand, forming a translucent dagger of ice that he hurled at once. The projectile pierced the skull of a Borisin approaching from behind Yanqing.
The others followed through, pressing the attack. One enemy fell, its torso split open by a spear before it understood what had happened. Stelle burst in from another flank with a downward strike that fractured bone and ground alike. March fired from the rear, freezing a limb that shattered under the next impact.
A larger Borisin than the rest, its chest marked with scars and red tribal patterns, turned upon recognizing the disadvantage and began to flee. Yanqing sent his swords in pursuit.
He hurled several blades. The Borisin dodged and used the embedded swords in the wall as footholds, gaining height while searching for an escape.
"Tsk." Yanqing clicked his tongue when his last sword missed by a narrow margin.
Aleph began forming another ice dagger when a silhouette descended from above before he could throw it.
A young woman of slight build dove straight down. With one hand, she seized one of the swords embedded in the wall mid-descent and, without altering her trajectory, drove it into the Borisin's chest, piercing through its heart and out the wolf's back.
Dan Heng impaled the last Borisin with a thrusting strike, bringing the battle to an end.
Yanqing landed and began retrieving his swords. Aleph approached him.
The girl had already withdrawn the blade from the corpse and was wiping it clean with a cloth, ignoring her surroundings.
Yanqing stepped forward.
"That sword—"
She reacted at the slightest movement. With an agile leap, she used the remaining swords lodged in the wall as footholds. She propelled herself toward an upper structure… taking the sword with her.
"Wait!" Yanqing stepped forward, hand outstretched. "Come back! That sword is mine!"
The figure vanished among beams and platforms before anyone could intercept her.
Yanqing remained still, staring into the empty space for a few seconds before lowering his gaze with visible reluctance.
"It was new. And quite expensive…" He muttered. "I bought it with what little remained of my personal funds after the General gave me an ultimatum and said that since I already own enough swords—so many that I no longer have space to store them—I won't be allowed to buy another for quite some time."
Aleph gave him a couple of awkward pats on the shoulder in a crude attempt at consolation.
"Don't worry. With the mess that just happened, it's unlikely anyone will be able to come and go freely for a while. Isn't this confirmation that we'll eventually run into her again, Yan?"
Yanqing glanced at him sideways.
"You really think so?"
"Of course."
Yanqing nodded, slightly more encouraged.
Dan Heng, March, and Stelle approached.
"What happened?" March asked, looking upward.
Yanqing sighed.
"Nothing worth mentioning." He said, straightening his posture. "Let's continue."
Dan Heng surveyed the damaged surroundings.
"The appropriate course would be to stop by the Seat of Divine Foresight. We should offer our greetings to the General and express our thanks for the invitation while reporting what happened here. The Borisin shouldn't be able to enter the Luofu so easily—especially this close to the Stellar Skills Tournament."
Yanqing nodded.
As they walked away, a middle-aged Foxian Cloud Knight without a helmet approached with a furrowed brow.
"Lieutenant."
"What is it?"
"The party responsible for the shipment that brought those creatures is causing a disturbance. He's demanding explanations and accusing our men of incompetence."
Yanqing frowned.
"In whose name was the shipment registered?"
The knight clicked his tongue.
"The Corporation. The product is listed as manufactured by the Intelligentsia Guild. I was sent to inform you. Given your rank, it would be more appropriate for you to intervene."
Yanqing ran a hand across his forehead in irritation.
"I understand. I apologize for the delay in our visit to the General. I'll understand if you wish to proceed on your own."
"We'll accompany you." Dan Heng said.
"If he tries to cause you trouble, we'll back you up!" March added, raising her fist with a grin.
Stelle crossed her arms, looking toward the source of the shouting with an odd expression.
"…Why do those screams sound so familiar?"
Yanqing inclined his head formally.
"Your support is appreciated."
They headed toward the angry voice of a man who, between insults, was calling the Cloud Knights incompetent beneath the skies of the Luofu.
.....
A man with perfectly styled brown hair and dark sunglasses blocked the Cloud Knights' path with his arms spread wide. Behind him, several metal crates remained sealed under security locks.
"A bunch of upstarts like you should think twice before interfering with a Corporation employee. I assure you, you'll regret it."
Stelle blinked and narrowed her eyes as recognition surfaced.
"Snoopy?"
The man let out a laugh thick with anger.
"For the last time, it's Skott. Lyndon Skott."
March and Aleph brought a hand to their faces almost in unison. Dan Heng blinked, puzzled. Yanqing wore a similar expression.
Skott clenched his teeth.
"You forgot again?" He growled at Stelle. "You filthy raccoon girl. You're the source of my misfortune."
He jabbed a finger at himself indignantly.
"I worked for the Corporation for years. Years of impeccable service. And because of your obsession with meddling in my affairs, I was fired. Do you understand? Fired. Then reinstated under Miss Topaz's orders." His voice turned bitter. "And when I was finally on the verge of redeeming myself during the acquisition process of Jarilo-VI, you showed up again and ruined everything."
Stelle snapped her fingers as her expression lit with realization.
"Oh." She pointed at him. "Snoopy. Weren't you the one who could perfectly imitate a dog's bark?"
Skott flushed to the tips of his ears.
"You humiliated me in front of my own men!" He shouted. "Ever since you forced me to bark like a dog, they've never looked at me with respect again! The chain of command was compromised! My absolute authority became a joke!"
He pointed at March furiously.
"And it's all because of you and the idiot duo that follows you! That pink-haired girl with the vacant look and that loser who dyed his hair."
"I didn't dye my hair!"
March stepped forward.
"What do you mean 'vacant look'? Uh… shouldn't you check your memory? As far as I know, that bet was your idea. You even specified that if Sushang and Stelle lost, they'd have to bark like a dog in front of everyone…" She tilted her head. "After that, you cheated and got caught red-handed, and despite all that, you still lost. Isn't that more pathetic?"
Skott clenched his teeth and glared at her as if he were about to lunge.
"If you had simply lost obediently, I would have kept my position. And right now I wouldn't be doing the humble work of a delivery chief."
Yanqing stepped forward, attempting to mediate before things escalated.
"Perhaps we could—"
Skott snorted with disdain.
"A scrawny runt like you should be playing with other brats your age." He looked him up and down. "Or picking your nose at the top of some tree while trying to spy on women's baths. Whose brilliant idea was it to send you here? What poor judgment."
Yanqing's expression hardened. Around him, several Cloud Knights murmured indignantly at the way he addressed their lieutenant.
"Who does this guy think he is?"
The faint sound of firm footsteps cut through the tension.
A woman with an elegant bearing emerged from the crowd and positioned herself beside Yanqing.
"My name is Lingsha, and I am the new Head of the Alchemy Commission of the Luofu. I would like to know exactly what your shipment is transporting."
Skott adjusted his sunglasses.
"Ah. Excellent. Finally, a real adult. Though I regret to inform you that your request cannot be fulfilled."
Lingsha crossed her arms.
"When a vessel crosses beneath another banner, it cannot do so wrapped in shadow. Transparency is not a concession—it is the tribute paid to mutual respect between factions."
Skott folded his arms.
"I cannot disclose the contents because there are corporate protocols signed with the Intelligentsia Guild and clauses that are not open to discussion. The Luofu is merely a stop along our route, not the final destination, so I see no reason to expose sensitive information simply because a group of knights decided to become inquisitive. What we are transporting is experimental weaponry developed through an impeccable collaboration between both institutions, and that explanation should be more than sufficient."
Lingsha's brow tightened slightly.
"Upon entering territory belonging to another faction, there is an obligation to declare what is being introduced. Especially when Borisin managed to infiltrate hidden within a shipment."
Skott sighed and waved a hand irritably.
"Two of our ships were ambushed by Borisin who slaughtered the crew and posed as legitimate personnel. They managed to infiltrate, causing heavy casualties… Ugh, this is terrible."
March looked at him in surprise.
"Wow… I didn't know you could—"
"Because of those incompetents who couldn't even manage to stay alive, now I have to face the executives to save my own skin!"
March brought a hand to her face.
"Never mind."
Lingsha exhaled.
"It is not negotiable. If you wish to enter, you must reveal the contents. Unless you are prepared to depart and risk being attacked again while attempting another travel route."
Skott clicked his tongue in displeasure and grabbed a nearby employee by the shoulders.
"Go get the access card. Now."
The employee returned shortly after and placed the card before the scanner. A green light illuminated.
Lingsha frowned faintly.
"I sense the scent of life within. How is that possible?"
Skott looked at her, bewildered.
The seal disengaged with a mechanical sound.
A guttural roar vibrated through the air as the lid was torn away by metallic claws.
Five figures emerged from the darkness.
Skott trembled as his gaze met the machine's glowing red eyes, blazing with fury.
"S-Shut them down! Who was the idiot that left them powered on?!"
The units descended with a crash that made the ground tremble.
They were taller and broader than the previous Borisin, their plating thicker, their limbs reinforced by hydraulic rings that hissed as they moved.
One of them closed the distance to Skott in three strides, extending its claw toward his head.
Skott shut his eyes and raised his arms in a feeble attempt to shield himself. The pain he expected never came.
When he cautiously opened his eyes, he saw a burly red-skinned man with large horns intercepting the strike with a massive club, blocking the claws that had been about to split him apart.
Reinforced wood groaned. Metal shrieked. The red-skinned man let out a low grunt, forced the claw upward, twisted his body, and brought the club down against the experimental weapon's flank, denting its side plating. The prototype answered with a headbutt that made the oni take half a step back.
The burly man smiled in a way that sent a chill down Skott's spine. He grabbed the weapon by the shoulders and slammed his forehead forward. Sparks burst from the prototype's head as it emitted a distorted growl.
On the left flank, two units lunged at the Cloud Knights and the escorts. Spears formed a tight line. The first impact kicked up dust and shards of stone. A Cloud Knight was thrown back several meters when a claw shattered his guard, tearing through part of his armor. Another managed to drive his spear into a joint, but the prototype spun and hurled him into an escort.
Dan Heng entered from the side. He slid his spear tip between the plates exposed during the spin and pierced a precise point beneath the prototype's clavicle. He withdrew the weapon before it could be seized and struck again, lower this time, forcing it to bend forward.
Stelle charged the second unit head-on, narrowly avoiding a swipe aimed at her shoulder. She answered with a direct blow to its torso. The metal rang like a bell. Instead of retreating, she kept striking—again and again—this time lower, driving the prototype off balance and pulling it away from the Cloud Knights as its red, rage-filled eyes locked onto her.
Yanqing set his flying swords into an offensive formation. They shot outward in a fan before returning at intersecting angles. One severed the knee joint; another split the shoulder seam. When the mecha-Borisin tried to pin him in a frontal charge, Yanqing was already at its side. Two swords descended in parallel and embedded themselves in the weakened point Dan Heng had opened, forcing the unit down onto one knee.
March fired at the ground beneath the third creature attempting to circle the formation. Ice erupted and climbed its metallic legs. The prototype discharged energy through the cannon in its muzzle to shatter the frozen layer and succeeded in fracturing it. In that instant, a pink-haired fairy unleashed a compressed blast of wind that struck with violent precision at the crack in the plating. The torso bent backward, exposing a perfect opening for a second, far more concentrated strike to pierce the revealed core. The unit collapsed and did not rise again.
Aleph faced the fourth mecha-Borisin as it lunged straight at him with a claw swipe he evaded with ease. His fist struck the elbow joint hard enough to misalign it. The prototype tried to ram him with its shoulder. Aleph responded by forming a gauntlet of ice around his hand and driving an uppercut beneath the metal jaw, dislocating it in the process. Before it could fall, he generated a short spear of ice and plunged it into its chest. The prototype attempted to tear it free, but soon dropped to its knees as its interior froze solid.
An escort was knocked down when a claw pierced his shield. The creature turned to finish him.
The oni arrived from behind and brought his club down across the prototype's back with a blow that pitched it forward. Dan Heng seized the angle and drove his spear into the partially exposed core. Yanqing crossed two swords over the wound, widening the opening. The Cloud Knights' spears secured the remaining limbs. The oni raised his club overhead and brought it down with his full weight, completely shattering the core.
Lingsha cast Skott a hard look. He remained on the ground, watching everything with a deep frown as he muttered.
"Tch. 'Prototypes ready for market launch after minor adjustments'? No matter how I look at it, these clawed trash cans are still defective. Damn Intelligentsia Guild of Mediocrities."
"Have you finished rambling, Mr. Skott?"
Skott stood and brushed the dust from his suit.
"The prototype's condition is not the Corporation's fault. They were supposed to be powered down and under control. You cannot blame me for what happened."
Lingsha gestured toward the destroyed units.
"I understand more clearly now why the Borisin would attack your shipment. They may not share our values, but they would certainly target someone who turns their own kind into these things."
Skott frowned.
"What are you implying?"
"You yourself stated that the Luofu was merely a stop and not your final destination. Then explain the deviation you took. What compelled you to choose this route?" Lingsha kept her gaze fixed on him. "Perhaps you anticipated a possible Borisin assault. Perhaps you chose to approach a vessel of the Xianzhou Alliance, aware of the enmity between those who follow the Abundance and the Hunt, allowing the conflict between both sides to resolve your problem."
Cold sweat began to bead along Skott's forehead.
"E-Every movement was authorized within the appropriate frameworks."
"While those frameworks are being reviewed." Lingsha replied. "The shipment will be transferred to the Shackling Prison for safekeeping. I will not ignore a risk of this nature."
Skott growled.
"That decision exceeds your jurisdiction, and the Corporation does not appreciate interference with its assets. Your actions will affect significant interests. Are you truly prepared to do that?"
"This concerns the security of the Luofu. You should also not forget that you openly mocked a lieutenant who, in case you were unaware, is the protégé of the General in charge of the Luofu…" Lingsha regarded him with a bored look. "If you wish to escalate the matter, do so. I doubt you will appreciate the outcome."
Skott clenched his jaw and stamped the ground before restraining himself.
Lingsha turned to Yanqing and the others, her expression softening.
"Lieutenant Yanqing, I appreciate your intervention. The outcome would have been different without your support."
Yanqing inclined his head.
"We were merely fulfilling our duty, Miss Lingsha."
Lingsha offered a faint smile to the members of the Astral Express.
"The Luofu acknowledges your continued assistance. If it is not an inconvenience, I ask that you accompany the Cloud Knights during the transfer to the Shackling Prison to prevent any further incidents."
"General Jing Yuan will be informed of what occurred."
Yanqing looked at Dan Heng and Aleph.
"Guide March and Stelle to pay their respects to the General while reporting what happened here." Dan Heng said. "Aleph and I will accompany the Cloud Knights."
The Cloud Knights reorganized their formation around the deactivated units while the escorts watched in silence.
***************
The Seat of Divine Foresight remained silent, disturbed only by the faint hum of astral calculation devices orbiting the main office like captive constellations.
Jing Yuan held his teacup between his fingers before setting it aside. With a small gesture, he indicated the seat across from his desk.
"General Huaiyan, the Luofu always reserves a place of honor for those who have tempered the Alliance's steel. Please, take a seat. It would be improper for an ancient tree to remain standing while a young sprout rests."
The elderly man of short stature sat down calmly. His back remained straight despite the centuries. His fingers stroked his long white beard, a habit as old as his reputation.
"General Jing Yuan, your words remain as polished as jade shaped by skilled hands. At my age, one should listen to the wind among the trees and allow the young to carry the sword. Time does not reverse itself; only a fool attempts to grasp it."
His deep, serene eyes settled on the general.
"I have come because the Zhuming cannot close its eyes when smoke rises on the horizon. But I confess, at times I wonder whether I have remained on the board for too long. Even the finest smith knows when to extinguish the forge."
Jing Yuan smiled faintly.
"Only one called the Flaming Heart of the Zhuming could speak of extinguishing himself while still radiating heat. When the central pillar holds the roof without cracks, no one wishes to replace it. If retirement has not been granted to you, it is because the weight of your mantle would crush whoever wore it without your tempering. Not every heir wishes to live in the shadow of a mountain."
Huaiyan let out a warm laugh.
"They say the general in charge of the Luofu is lazy. If that were so, his idleness would be the fruit of a well-tended garden. Only one who has sown in advance may afford to rest in the shade. Despite the internal troubles affecting the Luofu, I have no doubt you have already made your plans to confront your hidden enemies."
"To rest while others keep watch is imprudent." Jing Yuan replied evenly. "Yet how else would the rats gain enough confidence to show their heads from their burrows, if not when the lion lies still with its eyes closed?"
At that moment, the door slid open with a firm motion. A dignified figure entered, her silver ears upright like twin spears aimed at the sky.
Feixiao inclined her head slightly with a smile.
"General Jing Yuan, General Huaiyan, it is a pleasure to meet with you both."
"General Feixiao." Jing Yuan responded courteously. "The Luofu welcomes the presence of the Heavenly Claw of the Yaoqing. Please, take a seat."
Huaiyan regarded her with benevolence.
"It is a relief to see you strong. The steel of the Yaoqing has always been direct and unadorned. At times, a straight blade cuts cleaner than a curved one."
"I would prefer to exchange further courtesies, but I must soon present myself before the Dragon Lady of the Alchemy Commission. Time presses those who advance boldly. I wish to ask you a question."
Feixiao looked toward the elder.
"Were you also summoned by the Strategist Diviner of the Yuque?"
Jing Yuan closed his eyes briefly.
"To gather three generals without provoking friction is a task not even the finest steel can accomplish easily. Aside from the Grand Marshal Hua, there is only one mind capable of weaving so delicate a web."
A faint vibration rippled through the air. A rhomboid figure of cyan light formed at the center of the room, its outline wavering like a reflection upon disturbed water.
"You credit me with too much skill. I merely blow lightly upon the dust covering mirrors."
"General Yao Guang." Jing Yuan said with a sigh. "Your habit of listening behind doors persists, regrettably."
"Old habits are like roots beneath the earth." She replied calmly. "You may cut the trunk, but they will sprout again when the rain is favorable."
Jing Yuan folded his arms, brow furrowed.
"Be clear, General Yao Guang. What omen warrants this gathering at the Seat of Divine Foresight? Have you seen some calamity destined to fall upon the Luofu?"
"I have seen beasts roaring upon a crimson sea. I have seen twilight fall like spilled ink across celestial bridges. I have seen blood that distinguishes neither guilty nor innocent. A fate such that the living would envy the dead."
Feixiao rested her elbows on her knees.
"Speaking without a riddle still appears to pose you considerable difficulty."
"Very well." Yao Guang answered, her tone faintly playful. "A child will release his dog. The animal will spill pomegranate juice. The ground will be stained. Mothers will sigh. Merchants will argue. Is that not a true misfortune?"
Huaiyan blinked in confusion.
Jing Yuan shook his head in exasperation.
Feixiao gave a short snort and crossed her arms.
The luminous figure emitted a soft laugh.
"A joke is a sip of water in the desert. I have been told that a joke at the wrong moment reveals the firmness of the heart. If your pulses quicken over pomegranate juice, how will you withstand the magnitude of what is to come?"
Yao Guang resumed, her voice more solemn.
"It is a dual omen in which misfortune and opportunity are inseparably entwined. If you place the correct piece at the precise moment, you will gain an ally whose weight will tip the balance of eras and secure victory. If you fail, you will lose not only the lives of those who call the Alliance ships home, but also the favor of two presences that do not know forgiveness."
Feixiao leaned forward slightly.
"Does this relate to the two prisoners in the deepest layer of the Shackling Prison?"
"The so-called Borisin War Lord is but a fry." She replied evenly. "And because he is small, no one watches his shadow. The first piece to fall always appears harmless before it pushes the rest. Death will be more certain than triumph for us if we do not exert ourselves properly. When the dust settles, you will either have forged an impossible alliance, or ignited a war that will consume more than this vessel."
A faint crackle of interference ran through the chamber.
"Fortunately, an opportunity has presented itself to begin moving the pieces in our favor. At this very moment." Yao Guang continued lightly. "Is he not attempting to escape the Shackling Prison?"
"If disaster is already knocking at the door, I cannot afford to stumble on the threshold," she declared firmly. "The last thing I want is to become an uncertain variable at the decisive moment."
Yao Guang's cyan figure vibrated with a restrained laugh.
"If the path unfolds as I have foreseen, Heavenly Claw, your condition will be a crucial piece in the coming contest. At times, a crack in the blade determines where the enemy will break. A chipped edge can ruin the entire dance."
The light flickered once more, and the connection faded.
Jing Yuan shook his head, a mix of resignation and mild irritation on his face.
"The Strategist Diviner remains like a spring gale." He murmured. "She appears without warning, stirs the cherry trees, and departs leaving petals and broken branches in her wake."
Feixiao inclined her head to them both.
"I will depart at once for the Alchemy Commission. The Dragon Lady is unlikely to appreciate delays, given how tightly packed her schedule is."
"May the treatment strengthen your edge." Huaiyan replied kindly.
Feixiao withdrew after nodding in his direction.
Huaiyan stroked his beard and regarded Jing Yuan with an appraising look.
"Then, General of the Luofu, what move will you make? When the wind shifts, a captain cannot simply watch the sails."
Jing Yuan leaned back in his seat.
"I will test the waters at the Shackling Prison. I need to know whether the small fish has already torn through the net… or if he still breathes within it."
Huaiyan stroked his beard again, frowning as his thoughts returned to Yao Guang's words.
"Misfortune and opportunity intertwined…" He murmured. "When two threads cross, the weave may grow stronger… or tear apart."
The doors to the Seat of Divine Foresight opened at that moment.
A petite young woman entered. A massive sword rested across her back; a long, elegantly forged blade hung at her waist.
Jing Yuan and Huaiyan exchanged a brief look. Without speaking, they agreed to set aside the somber mood.
"Yunli." Huaiyan said with a genial smile. "Has your stroll through the Luofu been fruitful?"
Yunli grinned with bold confidence.
"Grandpa, the Luofu isn't as interesting as the Zhuming… but I had a fortunate encounter. As they say, 'those who walk attentively find treasure.' Look what I acquired."
She patted the long sword at her waist with pride.
Jing Yuan blinked as he examined it more closely. He was certain he recognized that blade.
"That sword…" He murmured. "Where did you obtain it, miss?"
The door opened again before Yunli could answer.
"That sword is mine!"
Yanqing entered, pointing accusingly at the blade at Yunli's waist. March and Stelle followed behind him, visibly confused.
The young woman gave him an unimpressed look.
"In the Zhuming, one who loses their sword on the battlefield loses their claim to it as well. A blade chooses new hands when the former ones abandon it."
Yanqing frowned at her, irritation evident.
"I paid for that forge. I didn't 'lose' it—I set it down briefly, and you took it, which makes you a thief."
"Uh-huh." Yunli replied with smugness, rolling her eyes. "Well, this baby is better off in the hands of someone who actually knows how to use a sword. Not someone who uses one and discards the rest like toys."
"I do not waste steel; I employ it efficiently!"
"In the Zhuming, we'd call that having too many swords and too little conviction."
Jing Yuan and Huaiyan exchanged a glance before letting out a quiet chuckle.
"It seems you've already forged a certain… familiarity." Jing Yuan commented with a smile. "I might even say you've struck up a friendship."
"Friends?" Yunli and Yanqing said in unison, pointing at each other. "Does it really look like I'm friends with this idiot?"
Huaiyan cleared his throat gently.
"Customs vary between ships. What is law in the Zhuming does not necessarily govern the Luofu. Forging and wielding are two sides of the same coin, but each port has its own scale. Yunli, customs change from one vessel to another. You must return the young man's sword."
Yunli crossed her arms with a pout.
"But, Grandpa…"
Yanqing smiled with evident satisfaction.
"It seems the Luofu keeps what belongs to it."
Huaiyan blinked and, with mild discomfort, scratched the back of his neck.
"In the midst of all this conversation… I nearly forgot an important matter. It seems the ravages of age inevitably catch me at the worst moments."
He approached a suitcase he had brought with him and retrieved a black case engraved with golden patterns.
"General Jing Yuan, I had prepared a gift for my visit. It is tradition that, during the Stellar Skills Tournament, not only a considerable sum be awarded, but also a prize worthy of the effort of the one who rises victorious among so many combatants. And what could be more fitting than one of the Zhuming's finest creations?"
Yunli's eyes widened.
"That sword will be the prize? Grandpa, that's excessive. Not just anyone is worthy of wielding something like that."
Yanqing raised an eyebrow.
"You should temper your ignorance. On the Luofu and beyond, swordsmen are as numerous as stars in the sky. Many gather at the Tournament to test themselves and proudly demonstrate their skill. Who are you to decide who is worthy and who is not?"
"Someone who wields a sword better than you," Yunli replied without hesitation.
Yanqing frowned.
"If you speak with such confidence, prove it. Perhaps that enormous sword on your back is nothing more than an eye-catching ornament."
Yunli bristled.
"Did you just mock Old Iron? If you insult my sword, be prepared to be flattened and sent crying back to your mother like a little child."
They stepped forward until they stood face to face, foreheads pressing together as they growled like pups contesting territory.
"Do you dare enter the tournament and fight me? I could crush you in seconds," Yunli declared.
Yanqing held her gaze.
"Hmph. Grand words, spoken in vain. I could defeat you any day of the week blindfolded and with one hand tied behind my back."
Jing Yuan rested his chin on his hand, clearly entertained.
Huaiyan sighed indulgently.
The two youths stepped apart, still glaring in challenge, while the two generals watched the scene with quiet amusement.
Jing Yuan waited until the exchange between Yanqing and Yunli lost momentum before intervening.
"Perhaps we should postpone what was about to unfold here."
Yanqing gave him a puzzled look.
"Is something wrong, General?"
Yunli narrowed her eyes.
"Does the General of the Luofu fear his disciple might wear himself out before the tournament begins?"
Jing Yuan did not spare her a glance, keeping his focus on Yanqing.
"Complications have arisen at the Shackling Prison. There is a possibility that what rests there will not remain inert for long. This is no time to measure pride when the iron of the lock has begun to creak."
March and Stelle exchanged a look before stepping forward, concern evident on their faces.
"Did something happen at the Shackling Prison? What do you mean?" March asked.
"I see your expressions have shifted, young travelers. If you know something, now is not the time to withhold it."
"When we arrived at the dock, we ran into a shipment from the Corporation that was seeking passage through the Luofu."
Jing Yuan nodded.
"I believe I was informed of it—a brief stop on its final route that required expedited clearance. I understand what you're saying, but I fail to see how it connects to the present issue."
Yanqing stepped forward.
"General, what occurred after the arrival of the Astral Express members is the true misfortune. It seems the Borisin had infiltrated their cargo. Fortunately, we eliminated them before the matter escalated."
"And that wasn't the end of it." Stelle added, scratching the back of her neck as she watched the General's expression grow increasingly severe. "The shipment consisted of technologically modified Borisin. Miss Lingsha suspected that the Corporation's employees were already aware they would be attacked and brought them here deliberately so someone else would clean up their mess. The key point is that the prototypes inexplicably lost control at the dock during Miss Lingsha's inspection and began attacking everyone in sight."
March nodded gravely.
"Miss Lingsha ordered their immediate transfer to the deepest level of the Shackling Prison to maintain strict surveillance over the cargo. Our companions Dan Heng and Aleph chose to accompany her, along with a squad of Cloud Knights as escorts."
Jing Yuan's eyes widened slightly as he placed a hand against his chin, contemplative.
"Now everything falls into place…" He murmured.
"What do you mean, General?" Yanqing asked.
"Do you not recall? During recent clashes between the Yaoqing battalions and the Denizens of Abundance, some Cloud Knights of the Luofu who joined the fray reported sighting vessels from the Society of Knowledge hovering around the battlefield. They even claimed to have seen them retrieving various items. What if what they sought were severely wounded Borisin still clinging to life, to be used in their experiments?"
His brow hardened.
"Tch. Meddling in a hunt like vermin, then fleeing with their tails between their legs while leaving their disasters in others' hands. It is no surprise the Corporation and the Society of Knowledge have collaborated."
His gaze shifted to Yanqing, prompting the boy to straighten under the General's stern look.
"Depart for the Prison at once. Observe, assess, and act with prudence. Should the worst occur, I trust your judgment to make the correct decisions in accordance with the situation."
Yanqing's expression turned resolute. For an instant, his eyes flicked toward Yunli, as if he found it distasteful to leave his proposed duel unresolved. But priorities remained; there were matters far more important than personal pride.
"I will comply."
Yunli let out a snort.
"Hmph. How convenient. Just as the blades are about to cross, the swordsman remembers he has other business. In the Zhuming, fleeing before the first clash is called cowardice. Isn't it rather convenient that problems arise the very moment I issue my challenge?"
Yanqing met her gaze evenly.
"One who confuses priority with fear has yet to distinguish between duel and duty. Do you truly see pride as more important in a potentially dire situation?"
Without sparing her another look, Yanqing turned and headed for the exit.
Huaiyan placed a firm hand on his granddaughter's shoulder.
"Yunli. There are times to test the edge and times to sheathe it. When the alarm bell tolls, even the most ardent must bow to necessity."
He then looked toward Yanqing.
"Young man of the Luofu, may your step be steady and your judgment clear. Well-tempered steel does not only cut; it endures."
Yanqing gave a slight bow before leaving the hall.
Yunli frowned and turned back to her grandfather.
"What is truly happening?"
Huaiyan exhaled slowly as he looked at her.
"The storm has not yet begun, but its signs are already etched along the horizon. The scent of blood is discernible before the first drop falls. When the Blood Moon rises in the sky, the wolves will howl in welcome to their alpha. And when the roar of the Warlord is heard once more… the streets of the Luofu will again be stained with innocent blood."
**********
The descent through Scalegorge Waterscape toward the entrance of the Shackling Prison continued as Aleph surveyed the surroundings, this time taking in the place more clearly than on previous visits.
Especially that dragon-shaped root in the deepest sector—it looked particularly appetizing…
Aleph soon shook his head to regain his focus. He could plan his assault later; for now, he needed to concentrate on his current duty as an escort.
Feeling somewhat curious, he turned toward the four Cloud Knights helping transport the cargo.
"Uh… I know this may be a bit presumptuous, but lately I've had some doubts and have been interested in trying weapons training. Could you give me your opinions? What weapon is best for a beginner who's just starting out?"
One of the Cloud Knights laughed, pointing to the sword at his belt.
"Kid, the answer's pretty obvious. Why not try the sword?"
Several of the others laughed.
"The spear should be your go-to option, lad! And you know why? Well—" Another began, only to be cut off by the booming laughter of the largest among them.
"Heh! Don't listen to those old windbags, young man! Don't you want to see the path a real man takes? Behold the truth of the world held in my hands!" Yuan Dao declared, raising his halberd. "Weight and power, combined with genius! You win from the start, because the moment the enemy sees how imposing you look with this beautiful lady on your shoulders, they've already soiled their pants in fear!"
Another of them shuddered before bursting into laughter.
"Pff—like Old Zhou when his wife showed up at the barracks that time with a kitchen knife asking if anyone had seen him?"
The same Cloud Knight who had been about to speak about the sword stiffened.
"T-That's a baseless rumor! Saying I soiled my pants is just a lie made up by that bastard Qingyi!"
Aleph couldn't help but be surprised at unexpectedly hearing a friend's name.
"So you were spreading rumors too, Qingyi?"
"…Should I remind you whose locker you hid in, Old Zhou?" The youngest of them shot back.
"Han, you sly bastard! Want your father to find out you spent all your savings on a new bow and now have to go hunting just to eat?"
The youngest looked up at the sky.
"…What a beautiful blue sky."
The spear-wielding Cloud Knight pointed at him mockingly.
"Ha! You got whipped!"
"Big talk from someone who can't maintain a long-term relationship." The younger one growled.
"Did this bastard really go there?! It's not that I can't keep a relationship—it's that they're all boring women!"
"Old Ghost Jiang…"
"Don't call me that! I'm still young!"
"As I was saying, you do realize they leave because you pay more attention to polishing your spear than to listening to women talk?"
"…Don't ask me to abandon my baby to listen to those lunatics. I don't want to end up whipped like Old Zhou."
"I am not whipped!"
Ming Jiang, Han Shuo, and Yuan Dao looked away and struggled to suppress their laughter.
"Pff… Y-yeah… we know, don't worry, Old Zhou!"
"A good friend is like a brother from another mother. Don't worry, just hide behind my back and I'll defend you from your wife's demonic weapon!"
"Hehe! If you'd married a sweet Foxian like I suggested, this wouldn't be happening to you, Old Zhou!"
"Ugh! One day I'll beat you so badly even your mothers won't recognize your ugly faces!" Zhou growled, pointing at them accusingly.
"Beat us? Ha! Listen to the whipped man talking about domestic violence!"
"It's not domestic violence! It's just that my sweet, slightly rough wife is misunderstood by jealous bastards who are still single!"
"Slightly rough, he says…"
"Zhou, brother, the last time we saw you run that fast was when she shouted your name from the barracks gate."
"That was a perfectly justified tactical retreat!"
"With tears in your eyes." Ming Jiang added, shaking his head.
"Sweat! It was sweat!"
"Yeah, sure. Salty sweat falling from your eyes…"
Aleph smiled wryly as he wiped a bead of sweat from his own forehead.
"Is this normal for you guys?"
"Huh? Not exactly, but it happens from time to time." Ming Jiang replied with a broad grin. "Don't worry, we're not bullying Old Zhou. It's just how we show affection."
"If we didn't tease him, he'd probably be dead by now." Han Shuo added matter-of-factly.
"I'd appreciate fewer displays of affection, then!" Zhou growled.
Yuan Dao raised his halberd again.
"But back to the important topic, kid. Look at this masterpiece. See the balance? The reach? This dangerous lady can be not only your partner and ally in training, but she might even give you impressive muscles that'll keep you from blending in with the rabble and livestock, making you far more memorable."
"The only livestock here is the one that moos when it hears footsteps in its house at midnight."
"Ming Jiang!"
"What? I'm strengthening your character!"
Han Shuo looked at Aleph calmly.
"If you choose the bow, you won't have to argue with anyone. You go to the forest, breathe fresh air, shoot, bring back food, return. It's like becoming one of those ancient woodland sages they show in movies."
Ming Jiang rolled his eyes.
"And that's how you end up a lunatic talking to squirrels."
"Squirrels are great and excellent company while hunting! Mocking them just because you don't like Lady Venerable Nut shows how narrow-minded you can be. At least squirrels listen better than you."
"Because they can't escape."
"Like your girlfriends?"
"Oi! That was low." Ming Jiang complained. "You can't use my brilliant romantic history as a weapon every time we argue!"
"History?" Yuan Dao muttered. "Brother, there are fewer names on tax evasion and most-wanted lists than on the list of women who've dated you."
"Hmph. That's because I'm just that great."
Aleph scratched the back of his neck, slightly embarrassed.
"So… how should I start with a weapon?"
Zhou let out a weary sigh.
"Listen, kid. Jokes aside. The weapon doesn't make you a man. What makes you a man is getting back up when your arm won't respond anymore and when these sons of bitches are watching you, waiting for you not to fail."
Ming Jiang nodded slowly.
"Huh. Well, Old Zhou can be wise when he tries."
"Tch. You ruin relationships and moments. Are you only good for drinking, Old Ghost Jiang?"
"I already told you not to call me that—I'm still young!"
Han Shuo sighed and shook his head.
"Just pick whatever you think suits your style best and don't listen to that idiot Yuan Dao. His head's filled with training, halberds, and Foxians."
"Their fluffy tails and ears, those sweet and gentle dispositions! Isn't that the ideal woman? I'm a visionary, Han. Foxians aren't just beautiful—they're incredibly capable and—"
Han Shuo pressed a hand to his forehead.
"See? He could go on for hours talking about Foxians."
Aleph blinked with a look of understanding.
"Uh… I think I can kind of understand that."
Ming Jiang, Zhou, and Han Shuo stared at him in confusion, while Yuan Dao slung an arm around Aleph's shoulders, laughing loudly.
"As expected from my grand vision! You truly are a man with his eyes open!"
…....
While Aleph's conversation with the Cloud Knights continued, Lingsha, walking at the rear, could not help but cast occasional glances at him with a faint frown.
"I need you to answer me honestly. What I sense in your companion is not common. That density of vitality… I have felt it before, in a context I would prefer not to associate with anyone again."
"…All I can say is that you're mistaken. Aleph is not an Abomination of Abundance."
Lingsha sighed and regarded him seriously.
"I did not mean to offend you or provoke hostility. But you must understand how difficult it is to accept such a categorical denial when it comes from someone so close to the individual in question. After all, isn't he your friend? I was expecting a more detailed explanation, Mr. Dan Heng."
Dan Heng sighed and pressed a hand to his forehead in exasperation.
"…A year ago, during Sanctus Medicus's invasion of the Luofu, the Ambrosia Tree was revived."
Lingsha nodded.
"I know. It was shocking to learn that Lady Dan Shu, my predecessor, turned out to be the leader of Sanctus Medicus. I am also aware that the Ambrosia Tree was resurrected and of the subsequent events, such as the battle against the Lord Ravager. It was a difficult period for everyone. But how does that relate to your friend's situation?" Lingsha let out an amused snort. "You're not going to tell me he did something as foolish as the Ancestors of the Alliance and ate the fruit of the Ambrosia Tree, are you?"
"…."
Lingsha blinked at Dan Heng's silence and turned to look at him in disbelief.
"…Right?"
Dan Heng lowered his gaze, somewhat embarrassed.
"No."
Lingsha exhaled in relief. As expected, no one could be ignorant and foolish enough to consume something from the Arbor—
"Actually, he… nearly devoured the Ambrosia Tree's vitality entirely, almost drying it out."
Lingsha's eyes widened in absolute disbelief.
"That idiot did what?!"
Everyone turned to look at her. Mortified at having shattered her refined composure, Lingsha cleared her throat into her hand and regained her poise.
"That is… how did that happen?"
Dan Heng shook his head, just as incredulous.
"It's Aleph. He simply does things that defy logical explanation. Don't try to understand him—it will only give you a headache."
**************************************************************************
How are you all doing?
This chapter took me a bit longer than planned because certain lines of dialogue didn't convince me, so I rewrote them again and again. Even now I'm only partially satisfied, but it is what it is.
My extra arcs and Amphoreus are getting closer, and I can't help feeling a bit excited about everything I've planned.
How did your pulls go? I'm still suffering through artifact farming for Yao Guang.