The *Cloudstep Monk* was a legendary monk class, known for its dragon-taming and tiger-subduing powers, unmatched by almost anyone, even gods. Such individuals possessed strength that could rival mountains and rivers. Even deities would think twice before crossing paths with them.
Ethan, forgetting the potential danger, hurried to the front deck.
*Cloudstep Monks* were extremely rare, and even in his past life, he had only encountered a handful. Witnessing such a battle was a rare opportunity that he couldn't afford to miss.
As soon as Ethan reached the deck, the *Cloudstep Monk* made his move.
"Dragon Palm!"
With those words, a massive palm materialized from the heavens, crashing down with overwhelming force upon the sea creature.
"Woo!"
The giant octopus let out a pitiful cry, but within the blink of an eye, it was crushed into a puddle of flesh.
"Uh... that's it? So fast."
Ethan blinked in disbelief, feeling a bit unsatisfied with how quickly it ended.
However, it was understandable. After all, this was a *Cloudstep Monk*. The difference in power was immense, and the sea creature didn't stand a chance.
With the sea monster vanquished, the *Cloudstep Monk* calmly turned around.
Stepping on floating clouds, he slowly descended to the deck of the ship.
"The sea beast is dealt with. You may resume your journey," he said.
"Thank you, Master Monk!"
The captain bowed deeply, full of gratitude.
The monk nodded, his expression serene and indifferent, preparing to leave.
"Wait!"
Ethan couldn't let the opportunity slip away. How could he just let such a powerful figure walk off without trying to learn something from him?
After all, *Cloudstep Monks* were known to be approachable. Ethan decided to test his luck.
"Do you need something?"
The *Cloudstep Monk* glanced at Ethan, his face unreadable.
"May I ask for your name, Master?" Ethan asked.
"I am called Yunlong."
"Master Yunlong!"
Ethan thought for a moment but couldn't recall anything about this figure from his past life.
But that was expected—*Cloudstep Monks* were extremely elusive, often secluded in deep mountains. It wasn't unusual that no one knew much about them.
"Master Yunlong, I often find myself lacking in strength. Do you have any advice on how I might improve?" Ethan asked, determined to get something useful from this encounter.
"Heh."
Master Yunlong smiled faintly. It seemed this young adventurer wanted to learn some of his skills.
While the monk appreciated his boldness, their professions were too different. Even if Yunlong wanted to teach, Ethan wouldn't be able to learn.
Still, encountering someone like Ethan wasn't something that happened often. The monk could sense an ancient relic of Argoth in the young man's possession. Though he couldn't offer Ethan his skills, he could at least form a positive connection.
"My skills are not something you can learn, but if you have any monk friends, you can send them to find me."
Yunlong reached into his robes and pulled out a prayer bead. "This bead is a token. Give it to them, and any monk at the monastery will know what to do."
"Thank you, Master!"
Ethan beamed with excitement, carefully storing the bead inside his magical hat. The promise of a legendary *Cloudstep Monk* was worth its weight in gold.
"Now, if there's nothing else, I must be going. I suggest you leave this area quickly as well. The seas have been dangerous lately," Yunlong said. He stepped lightly into the air, his body floating up into the sky, drifting on clouds towards Winterhold.
"So cool."
Ethan couldn't help but feel envious. Walking on clouds was a feat only a *Cloudstep Monk* could achieve.
But what had Yunlong meant by saying the seas were dangerous?
Was there something bigger on the horizon?
"Strange."
Ethan shook his head, unable to make sense of it.
The ship continued its journey, with the captain picking up speed after the sea monster incident.
After about thirty minutes, a port city came into view on the horizon.
From a distance, Ethan could see a tall spire rising from the center of the city. It was the *Flame Tyrant Garnier's* mage tower, glowing with a fiery red light, as if forged from molten steel.
Other than the tower, various churches and temples were scattered throughout the city.
Winterhold was a place of mixed faith, with followers of many deities preaching in its streets.
However, only those of lawful gods were allowed. The evil beings from the Abyss and Hell, along with creatures from other dark dimensions, were forbidden entry.
"Thud!"
Finally, the ship docked, and Ethan leaped onto the pier. The city buzzed with activity as all kinds of voices and noises filled the air.
People of all sorts hurried about, both NPCs and players. The scene was far livelier than anything Ethan had experienced in Frostleaf Town.
And this was only the dock district—the central square was sure to be even more crowded.
"Winterhold... I'm back!"
Ethan gazed fondly at the familiar city, memories of his past life flooding his mind. He had spent years in this city, and there wasn't a corner he didn't know like the back of his hand.
He could even recall hidden quests and treasure chests scattered throughout.
Once he had time, he would definitely explore every nook and cranny.
But for now, there was business to attend to.
"First, I need to visit the City Lord's mansion. I wonder if I can sneak in."
Ethan turned and began making his way towards the mansion. Just then, a hooded figure appeared in his path, walking straight towards him.
Instinctively, Ethan moved to the side to avoid a collision. But it seemed the figure was aiming directly for him. They bumped into each other head-on.
"Sorry."
The person mumbled an apology and started to walk away.
"Oh? Trying to leave after stealing something?"
Ethan smirked, quickly grabbing the person's wrist. A mere pickpocket? Did they really think they could get away with this?
"What are you talking about? I didn't steal anything! Let go of me!"
The figure protested, trying to pull away.
"Wait... this voice… Are you Golden Hand?"
Ethan frowned. The voice was familiar, so he asked cautiously.
"Uh…"
The person froze, then lifted their hood to glance at Ethan.
"You know me?"
Ethan couldn't help but laugh when he saw the familiar face.
It really was him—what a stroke of fate!
This guy was known as *Golden Hand*, a master thief by trade.
Thieves in *Godfall* were similar to rogues, but more specialized. All their abilities were focused on stealing and escaping, with no combat skills whatsoever.
*Golden Hand* was one of the best. In real life, he had been a notorious criminal, and in the game, his thieving tendencies had only gotten worse.
With his absurdly overpowered theft talents, he had earned a terrible reputation in the gaming world.
Oh, and about that time Selene's undergarments were stolen? He was the mastermind behind it.
Ethan had initially only felt 50% confident about his next move. But now that he'd run into *Golden Hand*, that confidence doubled.
Ethan grinned, replying,
"Of course I know you. I'm very familiar with your work."
"Who are you? Have we met before?"
*Golden Hand* searched his memory but couldn't place Ethan.
"Want to know? First, return what you stole, then we'll talk."
Ethan kept a firm grip on his wrist, not daring to let go. *Golden Hand* was too slippery—if he let his guard down, the thief would vanish in an instant.
"I didn't steal anything! You can't just accuse me like that without proof!"
*Golden Hand* pouted, refusing to admit to anything.
He had a rule—once something was in his hands, there was no giving it back. It was a matter of principle!
"Oh, so you won't admit it?"
If this guy wanted to play tough, Ethan had no choice but to get serious.
A small flame ignited in Ethan's palm, creeping up *Golden Hand's* arm.
"Hot, hot, hot! Fine! Take it back! Just put out the fire!"
*Golden Hand* panicked, quickly tossing the stolen item back to Ethan.
Satisfied, Ethan extinguished the flame and released his grip.
But just as *Golden Hand* was about to bolt, Ethan grabbed him again.
*Golden Hand* was dumbfounded. He glanced at Ethan, then back at his own arm.
"Seriously, dude? You're not done with me yet?"