Chapter 26 - Choice

The Endless Star Territory sprawls across immense expanses, hosting countless planets and diverse forces, both great and small. Yet, despite its vastness, it has a definitive territorial limit. Hearing Protoss's revelation, Jiang Fan realized that beyond the boundaries of the Endless Star Territory lay even larger and more numerous star fields. According to the Protoss, the Endless Star Territory was but a modest star field in the grand scheme of the cosmos.

"Intriguing," Jiang Fan pondered aloud, "Could the ferry ticket you mentioned earlier possibly be...?"

"Yes," The Protoss confirmed with a smile, "It's an artifact capable of traversing this void."

"Is there a vessel that travels through this void?" Jiang Fan queried, his curiosity piqued.

"The endless void exceeds even the grandest imagination," The Protoss affirmed, "Even my master, in all his travels, explored only a fraction of the numerous star fields. There are countless more wondrous and awe-inspiring places beyond my reach. As for the ferry ticket, it is one such marvel."

"I'm eager to learn more," Jiang Fan leaned in, attentive.

"Every few years," The Protoss elucidated, "A ship traverses the endless void. Its point of appearance is unpredictable, as it could manifest anywhere. This vessel, resembling a colossal fish, dwarfs any other ship in existence. Its unmistakable appearance makes it easily recognizable. Strangely, the ship is devoid of life, not even an automaton. Nevertheless, it pauses at intervals along its route. If by chance someone happens to be nearby and boards the vessel within this window, it ferries them to a predetermined star field. However, the destination varies each time."

"Has anyone attempted to commandeer this vessel?" Jiang Fan inquired.

"Indeed," The Protoss acknowledged with a smile, "But all attempts have failed. To my knowledge, this gigantic fish-shaped vessel is unique. It serves as a means to traverse vast distances swiftly and precisely reach designated star fields."

"Ah?" Jiang Fan interjected, "What about the Ancient Star where you reside..."

Before Jiang Fan could finish his query, the Protoss interjected, "It merely wanders and cannot navigate to specific star fields. Each journey necessitates a prolonged recovery period. In contrast, the giant fish ship accomplishes the journey swiftly."

"Ah, I understand," Jiang Fan nodded, "Does the origin of this vessel remain unknown?"

"Many eminent entities and factions have investigated, but..." The Protoss shook his head, "Its origins remain elusive. It stands as one of the ten wonders within the star field."

"Ten wonders?" Jiang Fan's curiosity heightened.

"These mysteries..." The Protoss grinned at Jiang Fan, "You'll discover in due course. For now, you must decide on the 3 rewards and select one."