The two flew for more than another hour, only landing on another deserted island after the setting sun had sunk completely beneath the sea, night had fallen, and stars dotted the sky.
This island was considerably larger than the last. Lush woods covered it, and a low hill rose at its center. A clear stream wound down the hill and emptied into a small pool on the island's southern side. Moonlight spilled over the pool, setting its surface shimmering. Now and then, a few silvery fish leaped out and fell back with a plop, sending rings of ripples spreading across the water.
Chen Ming patrolled the island. Only after confirming that no demonic beasts lurked there and no traces of cultivator activity remained did he relax. He found a flat patch of grass beside the pool, sat cross-legged, and let out a long breath.
"Today was certainly a wild ride." He rubbed his still-aching shoulders and smiled wryly. "First, I nearly got blasted to pieces by a Star Palace warship, then I snatched something from the jaws of two third-tier demonic beasts... I can't tell whether my luck is good or bad."
Wan Yao'er sat beside him and chuckled. "You escaped alive from the Star Palace's Heavenly Net Formation and even picked a Crimson Flame Vermilion Fruit along the way. If that counts as bad luck, then no one in this world has good luck."
She took an exquisite jade gourd from her Storage Bag, pulled out the stopper, and tipped her head back for a sip before handing it to Chen Ming. "Try some. This is spirit wine I brewed with hundred-flower honey. It helps restore spiritual energy."
Chen Ming accepted the jade gourd and took a generous sip without standing on ceremony. The wine tasted sweet and mellow,