After several days of anxious sailing, constantly changing course, carefully avoiding possible sentries along the way, the storm-tossed Wave-Breaker finally sighted the familiar white city walls and forest of masts of Wanghai City.
The new damages and repair marks on the hull silently spoke of the dangers of this East Sea journey. On the deck, the atmosphere was no longer the anticipation and lightness of departure. Instead, there was a post-survival exhaustion and solemnity.
Liu Yun was still recuperating in the cabin. Although her injuries had stabilized, her essence origin was damaged. She needed long-term nurturing and precious pills to recover. Xiao Qi also spent most of his time in the cabin, on one hand consolidating the power from his fusion with the Dragon Soul Crystal, on the other hand caring for Liu Yun.
When the outline of Wanghai City clearly appeared in their vision, the crew truly relaxed. Smiles of relief appeared on their faces.
Finally came back alive. Scarred Liu leaned against the railing, watching the increasingly near dock, murmuring to himself. This sea voyage was far more dangerous than any they had ever undertaken. Ruins collapse, deep-sea giant beasts, storms, and Shadow Serpent Pavilion's relentless pursuit. Every scene was enough to become a lifetime nightmare for ordinary sailors.
Sea Uncle controlled the helm, slowly steering the Wave-Breaker into the familiar West City Pier Number Three. Compared with those bright and beautiful ships around, the scarred Wave-Breaker was especially eye-catching, drawing much curious and probing attention.
The ship stopped. Anchor chain was thrown. Sea Uncle arranged for Old Fish Eagle and Scarred Liu to handle the ship's subsequent repairs and supplies replenishment. He himself came to Xiao Qi and Liu Yun's cabin.
Xiao Qi had just fed Liu Yun pills and saw her breathing steadily as she fell asleep. He gently closed the door and walked out.
Green Wood Daoist Friend, Miss Liu's condition. Sea Uncle asked with concern.
Injuries are stable, but she needs rest. Xiao Qi's face carried exhaustion, but his eyes remained clear. Sea Uncle, this time we relied greatly on you and the brothers. Otherwise, we might not have returned safely.
Sea Uncle waved his hand. His tanned face showed sincere expression. No need for such words between us. We were people who went through life and death on the same ship. But what are your plans? Shadow Serpent Pavilion's bunch of trash will certainly not let this go.
Xiao Qi nodded, his expression grave. He took out a storage bag he had long prepared and handed it to Sea Uncle. Sea Uncle, this is ten thousand superior spirit stones, plus some healing and spiritual energy recovery pills. This is compensation for the voyage, and for the Wave-Breaker's damages.
Sea Uncle received the storage bag. His divine consciousness slightly swept through it. He was immediately startled. Ten thousand superior spirit stones, this far exceeded their originally agreed compensation. Plus those excellent-grade pills, the value was even more incalculable.
This is too much. Green Wood Daoist Friend, this is really too much. Sea Uncle quickly tried to decline.
Take it, Sea Uncle. Xiao Qi pressed his hand, his tone sincere. This is what you all deserve. Without you, the Wave-Breaker would have sunk long ago. We could not have found the ruins and survived. These are not nearly enough to express our gratitude.
He paused. His voice lowered, carrying a hint of warning. Also, Shadow Serpent Pavilion has vast influence and will avenge the slightest grievance. You all helped us this time. You have likely already been marked by them. Take these spirit stones and pills. Leave Wanghai City quickly. Find a place to lie low, or change your identity. Do not easily take East Sea exploration missions again.
Hearing this, Sea Uncle's expression also turned serious. He had roamed the seas for decades, deeply knowing the terror of forces like Shadow Serpent Pavilion. He nodded heavily. I understand. Rest assured. Once the ship is repaired and supplies are replenished, we will leave immediately. We will go north or west to lie low for a while.
He looked at Xiao Qi, wanting to speak but hesitant. Finally, he could not help but ask. Green Wood Daoist Friend, are you all going to continue fighting Shadow Serpent Pavilion.
Xiao Qi's gaze looked toward the direction of the inn, and also seemed to look toward an even more distant future. His eyes were firm and profound. Some things cannot be avoided even if one wants to. We have reasons we must continue walking.
Sea Uncle looked at Xiao Qi's young yet already weathered face, sighing inwardly. He knew this was not something he could meddle in. He vigorously patted Xiao Qi's shoulder. Take care. If there is ever need for me Third Hai in the future, come find me at North Reef Harbor.
Definitely. Sea Uncle, you all take care too. Xiao Qi clasped his fist in a solemn return salute.
Bidding farewell to Sea Uncle and his crew, Xiao Qi carefully carried the still weak Liu Yun, mingling in the bustling crowd on the dock, discreetly walking toward the Listening Waves Pavilion inn where they had previously stayed.
Returning to Wanghai City brought no triumphant glory, only heavier pressure and concealed killing intent beneath the calm. The shadow of Shadow Serpent Pavilion still loomed. Liu Yun's injuries urgently needed resolution. And the road to finding the remaining two soul crystals was even longer and more perilous.
They needed to settle down quickly, let Liu Yun recover, and at the same time gather intelligence to determine the next direction. This prosperous port city, to them, was both a temporary safe harbor and possibly the center of a larger vortex.