Hua Qiang 2's engines let out a low hum through the void of space. Deep-blue wormhole entrances unfolded before the ship's bow again and again, then swiftly closed.
For the past month, Hua Qiang had barely slept, remaining before the main control console with his eyes fixed on the ever-shrinking distance on the star map.
Yan Ruyu brought over a warm nutrient solution and gently urged, "Young Master, you have been continuously controlling spatial jumps. If you do not rest soon, I fear it will damage your mind and spirit."
Hua Qiang took the nutrient solution, tipped back his head, and drained it. His fingertips tapped the screen, bringing up a live image of Meteor Sand Star.
The entire planet was dark yellow, its surface blanketed in thick dust and sand. A faint gray nebula encircled its atmosphere. From afar, it resembled a stubborn stone abandoned in the cosmos.
"We're almost there!"
His voice carried a trace of fatigue that was difficult to detect, yet it remained as resolute as ever.
"Xuan Chuqing is in seclusion within this planet's core region. We must be cautious."
The moment he finished speaking, the bridge alarm suddenly rang out, red warning lights flashing without pause.
Sangqina swiftly operated the instruments and said in a deep voice, "My lord, an energy barrier belonging to the plane guardians has appeared ahead. They have sent a communication request."
Hua Qiang raised his hand to signal for it to be accepted. Two figures clad in silver armor immediately appeared on the virtual screen. Their gazes beneath their helmets were sharp as blades, and an intimidating pressure radiated from their bodies.
"Who goes there? Meteor Sand Star is the seclusion grounds of the Xuan Clan's Grand Elder. Outsiders are forbidden from approaching!" one of them shouted coldly.
Hua