The ship sailed steadily across the Redwater Sea, its crimson surface gleaming beneath the fading light of the day. The sight was almost surreal, as if the ocean itself had been stained with the blood of ancient battles. Passengers along the deck gazed out at the water, some lost in thought while others engaged in hushed conversations. The atmosphere was peaceful, yet tinged with the weight of the tales that had built the sea's legend.
I stood near the railing, my eyes fixed on the vast expanse of red water. It was more than a strange phenomenon; it was a symbol of history, a reminder of the colossal beast that had once roamed these waters. That beast, slain centuries ago, had given the sea its hue—and its reputation. Many cultivators came here hoping to find remnants of its power, but over time, the stories had become little more than myths.
Still, I couldn't help but feel a tinge of excitement. The Celestial Sign-In System had provided me with a rare reward—the Legendary Beast Blood. I held the vial close, feeling the faint pulse of power that emanated from it. The blood could be used to refine Xiao Yin's bloodline, or even to temper my own body. It was an item of immense value, one I intended to use carefully when the time was right.
The cultivator section of the ship was quieter than the lower decks. It was designed for those of notable status, providing comfort and privacy away from the bustling crowd. I scanned the area, taking in the various individuals aboard, when my gaze landed on a young man sitting alone at a table near the corner. His robes were adorned with intricate beast motifs—green and brown, marking him unmistakably as a Beast Path cultivator. A scaled creature rested on his shoulder, its golden eyes scanning the room with a sharp, intelligent gaze.
I approached his table, maintaining a calm demeanor. "Mind if I join you?"
The man looked up briefly, his eyes narrowing before gesturing to the empty seat. "Suit yourself. Most people don't bother talking to strangers on a ship."
I took the seat, offering a faint smile. "I'm Ling Fei. That's Xiao Yin," I said, motioning to the silver-furred wolf resting at my side.
His eyes lingered on Xiao Yin for a moment, softening. "Xu Wei," he said, giving a slight nod. "This here is Jin," he added, gently patting the scaled creature resting on his shoulder. "Golden Spine Viper. Rare breed, vicious in battle."
"Impressive," I said. "It must have taken skill to tame her."
Xu Wei smirked. "Skill and patience. Picked it up during a hunt in the Wailing Jungle. You don't see many Silver Lunar Wolves, though. Xiao Yin's in excellent condition."
"Thank you," I replied, appreciating the compliment. "I've spent a lot of time training him. I take it you're heading to Emerald Edge?"
Xu Wei nodded. "That's right. A place like that? Perfect for a Beast Path cultivator. The sect trials are brutal, but the rewards are worth it."
"I've heard the same," I said, leaning back slightly. "My master has an old friend in one of the sects. I'm hoping to use that connection to understand what they'll be looking for in candidates."
Xu Wei's eyebrows raised a little. "Connections, huh? That could give you an edge. Me? I'm aiming to join the Beast Path sect directly. No interest in the Sky or Land Paths—they're too rigid for my tastes."
I leaned forward, intrigued. "The Beast Path sect will likely test our compatibility with our companions and our ability to handle wilderness trials. Have you prepared?"
Xu Wei glanced at Jin before replying. "I've focused on its combat skills and venom potency. The wilderness trials will be dangerous, but I've hunted in worse conditions. What about you?"
"Xiao Yin's growth is my priority," I answered. "I'm also preparing for team-based challenges. The sects value cooperation, even for individual paths."
Xu Wei nodded approvingly. "You're not wrong. The sects care about individual strength, but they also look for adaptability and leadership. Speaking of which, it's better to stick together once we reach Emerald Edge."
"I was thinking the same," I said, the idea forming in my mind. "An alliance could benefit us both during the trials."
Our conversation drifted into deeper discussion, sharing insights about the upcoming trials and potential strategies. Xu Wei told me stories of taming beasts in the Wailing Jungle, of facing danger head-on, while I shared my own experiences with Xiao Yin's growth and recent encounters with bandits.
As the ship sailed further into the vast expanse of the Redwater Sea, the waters shimmered with a surreal glow under the light of the rising moon. I glanced out the window, my thoughts drifting toward the trials awaiting us at Emerald Edge.
For now, though, the beauty of the crimson sea offered a rare moment of tranquility, a brief respite before the storms of the trials ahead.