The central reaches of the North Sea, in the Northern Firmament Sea Region, around Nine-Wan Island.
After a long voyage, the treasure ship finally crossed the vast expanse of sea and delivered Yao Lingxian, Zhong Wen, Lin Ce, and their party, along with a wealth of supplies, to the islands here.
The docks seethed with people, lanterns hung high, and colorful streamers fluttered. On Li Ling's orders, the current sect master, Nie Yingzhi, had arranged a simple yet dignified reception to welcome them.
The sight brought Yao Lingxian, Zhong Wen, and Lin Ce some comfort.
"Although Grandmaster told us before we left that we would still face a judgment upon coming to the Incense Accumulation Sect, it looks as though they welcome our return after all."
"If that is truly the case, staying here might not be such a bad thing."
By then, Nie Yingzhi had already come forward with his people to greet them.
"Welcome, everyone, welcome. The commerce guild informed us of your arrival in advance. I have prepared a feast at the estate on Nine-Wan Island to welcome you and wash away the dust of your journey. It is only a small token of goodwill, so please do not decline."
The three immediately disembarked with the other members of the Incense Perception Cult who had been sent here.
The feast Nie Yingzhi had arranged was prepared by the Hundred Flavors Gate. Though it featured no heavenly treasures, it had a distinctive flavor all its own and truly gave the Incense Perception Cult members a taste of the sect's unique character.
That afternoon, he took everyone aboard a boat at the shipyard and headed toward the Translocation Array more than a thousand li away.
That was the entrance to the Incense Accumulation Sect's true grounds. Ships belonging to