Chapter 496 – The Promising Sea
As Donna inquires about the Fountain of Unaging, Elland shares tales of legendary pirates and treasures, sparking the group’s imagination. He recounts his encounter with the King of the Five Seas, Nast, and describes the pirate king’s intimidating appearance, sending chills down Donna and Denton’s spines. Klein, meanwhile, remains focused on his meal, but his mind wanders as he processes the group’s discussion, pondering the connections between the King of the Five Seas and the advancement conditions for the Dark Emperor.
Elland regales the group with stories of four treasures: the inheritance of the Solomon Empire, the Specter Empire, the Lost City of Newins, and the Sunken Laurel. Each tale is steeped in mystery and danger, with rewards that tempt even the bravest adventurers. As the night wears on, the group’s excitement grows, and Donna’s eyes shine with anticipation. Perhaps they’ll catch a glimpse of the Specter Empire sailing by in the foggy night, or stumble upon one of the treasures themselves.
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The conversation eventually turns to the Sunken Laurel, a treasure ship that sank over a century ago, carrying untold riches from East Balam. Elland’s eyes gleam with longing as he speaks of the treasure, and the group can’t help but feel drawn to the allure of these hidden riches. With the night air filled with tales of adventure and danger, the group can’t help but wonder what other secrets the sea holds, and what treasures they might discover on their journey.
Chapter 497 – The Wall of Rewards
As the evening wears on, the group’s attention turns from tales of legendary treasures to the delectable grilled murloc, expertly seasoned by the cook. Klein, ever the connoisseur, savors each bite, his imagination running wild with the flavors and textures. Elland and Cleves regale the group with more stories, this time of mermaids, or Sirens, whose haunting songs entice sailors to their doom.
Donna’s fascination with the sea creatures grows, and Cleves shares a hint of their mysterious nature, leaving room for speculation. Meanwhile, Denton’s interest in becoming an adventurer is sparked, but Cleves wisely tempers his enthusiasm, suggesting a five-year training period to prepare him for the dangers that lie ahead.
As the night draws to a close, Klein receives a payment of 10 pounds from Cleves for his role in freeing Cecile and taking care of the children, a gesture that solidifies their bond and marks a rule of the sea. With full bellies and curious minds, the group retires to the cabin, already looking forward to the next day’s adventures.
Chapter 498 – Character Setting
Klein explores Damir Harbor, witnessing a heated standoff between a Navy sailor and Sea Eagle Logan, a muscular man with a sea eagle tattoo. The tension is eventually diffused, and Klein observes the vibrant atmosphere of the bar, ordering a glass of Southville beer. Captain Elland cautions him to be wary of the patrons, warning that only a small portion of what they say is true.
As Klein sips his beer, he’s approached by a short, thin man named Woody, who claims to have information about the Specter Empire, a legendary ghost ship filled with treasures. Woody tries to recruit Klein for an expedition, but before he can respond, Sea Eagle Logan intervenes, exposing Woody as a scam artist. The muscular man then offers to share the latest rumors with Klein, treating him to a plate of special cured meat.
As Klein indulges in the local delicacy, he navigates the complex web of relationships and deceit in Damir Harbor, where trustworthy information is scarce and rumors abound.
Chapter 499 – Solicitation
Klein’s stroll along the dockside streets of Damir Harbor is interrupted by a mysterious figure, emerging from the shadows of a dark alley. The man, Blazing Danitz, sports a black cloak and charred yellow eyebrows, with a confident air that belies his shady background. He reveals himself to be a fourth boatswain of the Golden Dream, a pirate crew seeking treasures like the Specter Empire, and offers Klein a place among their ranks, citing their creed and lucrative remuneration.
As Danitz explains the benefits of joining their crew, Klein’s sharp instincts remain on high alert, sensing the pirate’s underlying tension. The conversation takes a humorous turn when Danitz mentions the crew’s annual leave, a peculiar aspect of their pirate code. Klein’s poker face hides his amusement, but his eyes reveal a calculating intensity, unsettling Danitz.
The pirate’s demeanor shifts as he introduces himself, his expression turning solemn. However, Klein’s unexpected response – addressing Danitz by his full title and bounty – sends shivers down the pirate’s spine, and for a moment, he glimpses the abyss of madness and bloodlust lurking beneath the refined exterior. As the tension dissipates, Danitz provides information about White Shark Hamilton’s whereabouts, and Klein disappears into the night, leaving the pirate to ponder the enigmatic adventurer.
Chapter 500 – Interrogating White Shark
Klein follows White Shark Hamilton to Flying Fish & Wine, seeking information about pirate factions. He transforms into a bouncer to blend in and reaches Hamilton’s room, where he dispels the illusion and reveals his true identity. Hamilton, sensing Klein’s intense gaze, is gripped by panic and fear, feeling like a demon is examining him.
As Hamilton tries to compose himself, Klein politely smiles and asks about the pirate factions. Hamilton hesitantly denies any connection, but Klein’s unnerving presence makes him swallow hard. Klein offers two choices: answer frankly or be killed and answer honestly. Hamilton, aware of similar rumors about Klein’s abilities, asks why he wants to know.
Klein’s gentlemanly smile belies his intentions as he claims to be a hunter chasing bounties. Hamilton, feeling a sense of madness in Klein’s words, bursts into a frantic tirade about the dangers of taking on pirates, warning that even seemingly ordinary people could be informants and that Klein will be overwhelmed by retaliation. As Hamilton’s words trail off, Klein’s calm demeanor remains, leaving the pirate captain unsettled and unsure of what’s to come.
Chapter 501 – Bait
White Shark Hamilton, still reeling from his encounter with Klein, sends out a telegram and begins to analyze the events that transpired. He discovers that his bouncers were unaware of Klein’s true identity and realizes that Klein must have used illusions to deceive them. Hamilton’s mind races as he connects the dots, recalling rumors of Pirate Admiral Qilangos’ ability to transform into anyone, and considers the possibility of Klein using mystical items to manipulate appearances and create illusions.
As Hamilton pieces together the events, he becomes convinced that Klein is a novice Beyonders, relying on a powerful mystical item to create an aura of strength and madness. He suspects that Klein’s intentions are to capture and kill pirates to make a fortune, but became scared when he discovered Hamilton’s connections to Silver Coin Viper Oder and Admiral of Blood’s intelligence officer, Old Quinn.
Hamilton sends out a telegram, detailing his theories about Klein, including his physical appearance and abilities. He smirks, believing that Klein’s fate is all but sealed, as many will be drawn to the powerful mystical item, and Hamilton will no longer have to worry about his own secrets being exposed.
Chapter 502 – The Scene in Azik’s Memories
Klein receives a mysterious letter from Mr. Azik, delivered by a large skeleton messenger that disintegrates into bones after handing over the letter. The scene startles Donna and Denton, who are watching from the staircase, and Klein silences them with a warning gesture. He then retreats to his room, where he finds the Dark Emperor card and a copper whistle inside the letter. Azik’s reply letter shares his memories of the War of the Four Emperors, and Klein infers that Azik is likely a son of Death who participated in the war.
Azik warns Klein about the dangers of the copper whistle and advises him to seal the Dark Emperor card to avoid attracting powerful enemies. Klein burns the letter and practices the sealing technique before bringing the items into the mysterious space above the gray fog. He eliminates any possibilities of accidents, ensuring he won’t suddenly meet the King of the Five Seas, Nast, at sea.
With his morning routine, Klein heads to the second-class buffet cafeteria, eats a simple breakfast, and then goes to the deck to enjoy the early-morning scenery, his mind still processing the revelations from Azik’s letter.
Chapter 503 – Hostage
Klein’s morning routine is disrupted by the arrival of Blazing Danitz, a pirate worth 3,000 pounds, who boards the ship in disguise. As Danitz senses danger, he’s surprised to find Klein calm and collected, and their encounter takes an unexpected turn. Klein, maintaining his Gehrman Sparrow persona, questions Danitz about his intentions and forces him to reveal his true identity as a pirate.
As their interaction unfolds, Klein’s cold demeanor and calculating nature leave Danitz unsettled and intimidated. The pirate is forced to comply with Klein’s demands, including surrendering his luxurious cabin and tidying up Klein’s old room. The power dynamic between the two becomes clear, with Klein exerting control over Danitz, who struggles to maintain his pride and dignity.
With Danitz now under Klein’s surveillance, the chapter ends with the pirate seething with anger and humiliation, while Klein remains enigmatic and in control. The tension between them is palpable, leaving readers wondering what further developments will arise from this complex and intriguing encounter.
Chapter 504 – Red Skull Pirate Crew
As Klein and Blazing Danitz engage in a tense conversation, the pirate’s true identity is slowly revealed, and Klein’s calculating nature becomes increasingly unsettling to Danitz. The power dynamic between them is palpable, with Klein maintaining control and Danitz struggling to maintain his dignity. The conversation touches on the strict rules governing Beyonders and the Nighthawks team, hinting at the complexities of the world they inhabit.
As they dine, a crewman interrupts, announcing the presence of a pirate ship, and Klein’s cold demeanor only intensifies. Danitz’s attempts to feign innocence are met with skepticism, and Klein’s sharp instincts and calculating nature become increasingly apparent. The situation escalates as the pirate ship, the Red Skull, approaches, and Danitz’s past dealings with its captain and first mate are revealed.
With the stakes rising, Klein’s motives remain enigmatic, but his gaze, smile, and orders to Danitz convey a sense of calculated manipulation. As the chapter comes to a close, the tension between the two characters reaches a boiling point, leaving readers wondering what Klein’s next move will be and how Danitz will respond.
Chapter 505 – A Servant Worth 3,000 Pounds
As the White Agate’s crew breathes a collective sigh of relief, Captain Elland’s mind is abuzz with questions about the Red Skull’s sudden retreat. He orders the ship to dock at Bansy Harbor, where they’ll report the encounter to the Navy and the Church. Meanwhile, Donna and her family discuss the notorious pirate ship, with Teague revealing the impressive bounties on Captain Johnson and First Mate Anderson, earning them nicknames like Sea Wolf and One-Eyed.
Donna’s curiosity is piqued, and she starts to wonder if Uncle Sparrow’s mysterious messenger might have had a hand in scaring off the pirates. She shares her suspicions with her brother, and they sneak out to find Klein and Blazing Danitz, hoping to uncover more about the enigmatic stranger. As they eavesdrop on Danitz’s monologue, they learn more about the pirate’s perspective on evading authorities and the risks of their trade.
Klein’s calculating gaze and Danitz’s carefree nature create an intriguing contrast, leaving readers wondering what secrets lie beneath the surface of their conversation. With the Red Skull’s retreat still shrouded in mystery, the stage is set for a thrilling adventure as the White Agate prepares to continue its journey, unaware of the dangers and surprises that lie ahead.
Chapter 506 – The Weather Museum
As Klein listens to Danitz’s tales of Bansy Harbor’s dark past, he becomes intrigued by the island’s history of mysterious disappearances, cannibalism, and human sacrifices. The pirate’s stories spark Klein’s curiosity, and he begins to wonder if the island’s turbulent weather and eerie traditions might be connected to the Forsaken Land of the Gods.
Danitz’s sharing of the island’s unique customs, including the blood cake ritual, leaves Klein stunned, and he can’t help but think of Little Sun’s description of the elves’ love for solidified blood. The conversation takes a surprising turn when Danitz suggests visiting the Green Lemon Restaurant to try their famous pig blood delicacy, which Klein is eager to indulge in.
However, Klein’s divination reveals that there’s a great danger lurking in Bansy Harbor, contradicting Danitz’s carefree demeanor. Despite this, Klein decides to keep a low profile and prioritize his safety, leaving readers wondering what hidden threats await him on the island and what secrets Danitz might be hiding.
Chapter 507 – Bansy Harbor in the Wind
Donna’s scream echoes through the Green Lemon Restaurant as she spots a headless zombie outside, its neck bleeding. Cecile and her father, Urdi, initially dismiss her claim, but Cleves, the bodyguard, seems to believe her and reassures her that they’ll leave when the storm passes. He shares a local tradition: when the weather turns stormy at night, people don’t leave their buildings or respond to knocks on the door, lest they be taken away by unknown forces.
As the night wears on, Donna notices the restaurant’s patrons devouring dark red blood blocks, their pale faces and red-stained lips sending shivers down her spine. Meanwhile, Elland and his first mate, Harris, brave the howling winds to visit the nearby Storm cathedral, seeking answers about the turbulent weather. They encounter a priest, Jayce, who seems lost in thought before the Storm Sacred Emblem.
The stormy night hangs heavy with secrets and foreboding, as strange traditions and eerie customs weave together to create an unsettling atmosphere in Bansy Harbor.
Chapter 508 – Don’t Go Out
As Klein, aka Gehrman Sparrow, walks towards the Green Lemon Restaurant, the fog-shrouded streets of Bansy Harbor seem to come alive with an eerie atmosphere. With his yellow lantern and wooden cane, he’s suddenly beset by a headless, bodyless horror that attacks him, its face resembling dried cheese with mildew. Without hesitation, Klein strikes it down, and a mysterious ray of light descends, vaporizing the monstrous head.
Meanwhile, Blazing Danitz, who’s been watching from the shadows, takes on a similar creature, using his revolver and mystical powers to defeat it. However, he’s surprised by Klein’s ease in disposing of the monster, attributing it to mystical items rather than innate abilities. As Danitz tries to catch up with Klein, he’s left to ponder the strength of Gehrman Sparrow and the mysterious forces at play.
Inside the Green Lemon Restaurant, Donna struggles to come to terms with the eerie customs and dishes of Bansy Harbor, particularly the blood cakes that seem to be a local delicacy. Her thoughts are consumed by the horror of the headless zombie and the blood oozing from its neck, leaving her on edge and queasy.
Chapter 509 – Request
As Klein, aka Gehrman Sparrow, approaches the Green Lemon Restaurant, he’s met with an eerie atmosphere and an unresponsive door. He knocks three times, and after receiving no answer, he kicks the door open to reveal the patrons, including the Timothy family, staring back at him. With his Spirit Vision, Klein detects no evil presence, and Fox, the boss, points him to the Timothy family, who decide to leave with Klein’s group for safety.
Klein’s group, now including the Timothy family, exits the restaurant, and he uses his Sun Brooch to boost their courage and purify any evil influences. With the brooch’s power, he can selectively choose who to help, allowing him to bypass any unwanted targets. As they prepare to head to the telegraph office, Klein hands his cane to his right hand and readies himself for potential attacks, aware that their large group makes them vulnerable.
Klein then pulls out Azik’s copper whistle, using it as a diversion to attract any undead monsters, buying himself time to rescue anyone in danger. With the whistle, he’s relieved, knowing it’ll work as an MT1, allowing him to focus on their mission. As they proceed, Klein’s group is now larger and more vulnerable, but with his preparations, they’re ready to face the dangers that lurk in Bansy Harbor.
Chapter 510 – The Returning Bishop
Klein and his group, including the Timothy family, approach the telegraph office, where they’re met with an enigmatic woman behind the door who requests their help in finding a missing person. Klein inquires about the person’s appearance, receiving a cryptic and unsettling description, before deciding to prioritize their own mission and head to the Storm Cathedral instead. With his Sun Halo, he boosts the group’s courage as they navigate the treacherous streets of Bansy Harbor.
Upon arriving at the cathedral, Klein knocks three times, and Captain Elland’s voice responds from behind the door, eventually allowing them to enter after verifying Klein’s identity. Inside, they find the decapitated body of a priest, Jayce, and learn that Bishop Millet and the other priests have vanished, along with the servants. Klein’s instincts tell him that the Mandated Punisher team beneath the cathedral is still active, but he’s unsure what they’re doing.
As Klein examines the crime scene, he hypothesizes that a living Sealed Artifact or Mid-Sequence Beyonder may have escaped, causing chaos in Bansy Harbor, and that the bishop and Mandated Punishers are attempting to contain the situation. With more questions than answers, Klein and his group must navigate the treacherous underbelly of the city, where uncertainty lurks around every corner.