The Long Road of the Martial World, Departure

At noon, at the northern docks of Qingzhou City.

More than a dozen ships of varying sizes were moored on the river: cargo barges, passenger ships, and small fishing boats.

The docks bustled with people—porters carrying poles, laborers hauling sacks, and merchants hurrying along, all packed together.

Lu Li carried a bundle on his back and led Liu Yueling through the crowd toward a three-deck cargo barge.

The hull was painted black. A mast stood at the bow, flying a faded flag bearing the words "Boatmen Gang."

Peng Shan, Peng Wan'er, Yan Dan, and Liu Qi were already waiting beside the ship. When they saw Lu Li, they all came forward to greet him.

"Brother Lu, you're here."

Peng Shan clasped his hands, his expression carrying a trace of reluctance to part.

"I'm here."

Lu Li nodded, sweeping his gaze over everyone before it finally settled on Peng Wan'er.

Peng Wan'er's eyes were slightly red, but she quickly suppressed her emotions and forced out a smile.

"Be careful on the road. Take good care of Yueling."

"Don't worry. With me around, she won't suffer."

Lu Li smiled and looked down at Liu Yueling.

Liu Yueling held Little Gray in her arms. Her little face was scrunched up, and her eyes were red as well, though she did not cry.

"Brother Li, when will we be able to see Sister Peng again?"

Over the past few days, she had grown deeply attached to Peng Wan'er, who had played with her and made her laugh. Now that they were parting, she was extremely reluctant to leave.

"When there's another chance."

Lu Li rubbed her head.

"The road of the martial world is long. Who can say what will happen in the future?"

Liu Yueling pursed her lips, and her little face fell.