The Spirit Boat had sailed across the sea for half a day. Chen Ming stood at the bow with his eyes closed, resting his mind as the sea breeze stirred his robes, carrying a faint briny tang. Liu Qingqing sorted the copies of the alliance agreement signed with Black Wind Island in the cabin, while Feng Wuying inspected the Spirit Boat's propulsion array at the stern. Everything was in order.
Suddenly, Chen Ming opened his eyes and looked sharply toward the southeastern horizon. A small black speck was approaching at tremendous speed. It was clearly no ordinary vessel.
"Something's coming," Chen Ming said gravely.
Liu Qingqing and Feng Wuying immediately grew alert. One put away the alliance agreement, while the other pressed a hand to the magical artifact at his waist, and both came to the bow. The six accompanying disciples quickly took their combat positions, and the Spirit Boat's defensive array quietly activated.
The black speck drew closer, soon revealing its outline-a small, nimble azure Spirit Boat. A woman in white stood at its bow, her robes fluttering in the wind. It was Wan Yao'er.
"It's Deputy Island Master Wan!" Liu Qingqing cried in delight.
Chen Ming also breathed a sigh of relief and waved for the disciples to stand down. The two Spirit Boats swiftly drew alongside each other. With a light push of her toes, Wan Yao'er leaped gracefully aboard Chen Ming's boat.
"What are you doing here?" Chen Ming asked. "Have you finished the talks on Jade Wave Island?"
Wan Yao'er nodded, a barely perceptible trace of satisfaction beneath her calm expression. "Yes, and they went more smoothly than expected."
"Oh?" Chen Ming's interest stirred. "Tell me everything."
Wan Yao'er went into the cabin and sat down. She accepted the cup of tea Liu Qingqing offered