The hull lurched violently, letting out a series of dull roars.
When the treasure ship burst through a region shrouded in steaming mist, the scene before them suddenly became clear.
In the middle of the wreckage-strewn waters stood a burly old man suspended in midair.
He appeared fifty or sixty years old, his hair entirely gray, yet he exuded a rough and heroic air.
He held a Crimson Treasure Blade as broad and thick as a door panel. Scalding white vapor rose from the blade, showing that he had just gone through a fierce battle.
A Vermilion Wine Gourd hung from his waist, and he was presently throwing back his head to drink deeply.
It was none other than Hong Yuandong, master of the Lihuo Institute!
Not far from Hong Yuandong, a standard Crimson Skiff of the Lihuo Institute floated quietly on the water. Several Lihuo Institute disciples stood at its bow, led by the elite Lihuo Institute disciple Xiao Ruizhe.
His breathing was slightly hurried, making it clear that he had also taken part in the battle just now.
"Martial Uncle Hong! Senior Brother Xiao!" Nie Shanshan said with cupped fists.
Hong Yuandong lowered the wine gourd, wiped the liquor from his beard, and nodded at Nie Shanshan.
She was the Guishui Institute Chief Disciple, and would most likely inherit the position of master of the Guishui Institute in the future.
Hong Yuandong did not put on the airs of an elder, either.
As the treasure ship drew close, Nie Shanshan led Chen Qing and the Guishui Institute disciples down onto the deck of the Lihuo Institute's skiff, where they joined Xiao Ruizhe.
Chen Qing consciously stood slightly behind the Guishui Institute disciples, concealed his aura, and silently observed.
Nie Shanshan asked, "Senior Brother Xiao, have you seen Junior