The sea lay just ahead.
Soon.
The moment the Three Blue Birds flew out of the clouds, the sea came into view. The sun was already high, breaking the water's surface into scattered gold.
The outline of Dinghai Island emerged on the horizon.
This island city had undergone a complete transformation since Penglai appeared. The seaside port had been entirely cleared and placed under restricted access, turning it into a dedicated passage.
Ships bound for Penglai, researchers, and cultivators from every faction all came and went through here. Ordinary tourists were not even allowed near it.
Several rows of temporary command centers had already been built on the island.
When Chen Hao and the others landed, someone inside spotted them... or, more precisely, spotted the Three Blue Birds first.
Their landing caused quite a stir. The gusts stirred up by their folding wings could topple nearby stacks of papers that had not been properly weighted down.
The staff at the command center entrance realized what was happening and immediately ran inside to report it.
Less than two minutes later, Qin Xiaoyu came out first.
Ying Wenjie, Wu Tian, and Ye Chendong followed her, along with several faces Chen Siyao did not recognize. Those people stayed on the fringes rather than approaching.
Qin Xiaoyu hurried forward a few steps and called out.
"Master."
The three behind her followed suit.
"Master!"
Chen Hao looked them over one by one and nodded. Without saying much, he began assessing them.
Chen Hao inclined his head slightly, his gaze sweeping calmly over the four. His deep eyes were like a clear mirror, instantly discerning their cultivation foundations and progress. He delivered his assessment with precise, measured words:
"Qin Xiaoyu, peak meridian opening realm. A solid foundation, exceptionally well-condensed spiritual energy, and a steady temperament. Your