Chapter 244: Arrive at the ship's port
Their voices echoed in a firm and respectful tone, drawing the attention of citizens entering and leaving the gate, all closely monitored by the officers. Some citizens paused, watching as Lein's procession of cars passed by them.
"Amazing, the Island Owner has returned. Could it be that this time he will also help other islands?" whispered one resident, his eyes shining with hope.
"True. Thanks to the Island Owner, we can sleep without fearing attacks from those alien creatures," replied another, nodding confidently.
Some who saw the car began to talk among themselves, recalling the crucial decision they made when they chose to settle on Lein Island. A choice that once was merely a hope had now become a reality, making their lives feel safe and meaningful.
Inside the car, Lein took in the surrounding atmosphere without turning his head. He noticed every detail, but he remained silent, letting the citizens' conversations pass without response. As the respected island owner, Lein understood he needed to maintain his dignity. Overly socializing might lead to misunderstandings—or worse, encourage disrespectful behavior from those who might take his kindness for granted.
The car continued along the harbor's main road, surrounded by bustling shops and services. The tempting aroma of food wafted from nearby stalls, offering various dishes. Jewelry stores glittered with shiny items, while electronics shops displayed advanced devices, competing for the attention of passersby.
Among them, a hunter shop stood out—selling essential supplies for hunters, such as weapons, potions, and trading goods. On the other side of the street, several five-star hotels towered elegantly, surrounded by spacious grounds.
After a few minutes of driving, Lein's car finally arrived at the main terminal of the harbor—where large ships were docked and where registrations took place. The main harbor building was impressive, stretching a thousand meters in length and a hundred meters in height, with dozens of floors for various divisions. Neon blue pillars adorned its front, streaming light that was almost hypnotic, while holographic panels flickered, displaying important information in turns.
The main building loomed large, but instead of feeling empty, it was bustling with people moving in all directions. The room was vast, yet anyone who lacked focus could easily get lost and separated from their group.
Up ahead, the registration counter was crowded with people from diverse backgrounds, standing neatly in line, dressed in outfits that reflected their unique styles and purposes. There was no distinction of class or rank—everyone stood equal as passengers waiting for their turn.
Among them, some hunters simply observed while waiting. Hunters typically used teleportation portals for efficient travel, but this time, some decided to take a more relaxed journey by airship, which was more economical and allowed them to enjoy the scenery.
However, not all places were connected by teleportation portals. Using a portal required access to a location with a linked portal, recognized through a specially configured identification code. Although Lein Island was large and advanced, not all areas beyond had integrated connections with the island. Since Lein's destination this time was an area not yet connected by a portal, he chose to travel by ship.
"We've arrived, Sir," his driver said, stopping the car gracefully. Without hesitation, he stepped out and opened the door.
Lein stepped out, his blue cloak flowing lightly in the breeze. His gaze caught sight of a woman in the distance, walking gracefully towards him, dressed in an elegant black uniform, holding a tablet in her hand.
"Welcome, Mr. Lein. I'm Ana, ready to assist you," she greeted him respectfully as she came to his side.
Lein gave a faint smile and extended his hand, his eyes warm and friendly. "Hello, how are you?"
Ana held her breath for a moment, surprised at Lein's warmth, far from her expectations of such a respected island leader. Stammering, she shook his hand, her cheeks flushed.
"Hello, Sir. I... I'm well... very well," she replied, her voice trembling. The figure before her was far warmer and more reassuring than she had imagined.
Lein gave a slight smile, letting the moment of nervousness pass without comment, then turned and walked toward the main building. Behind him, Ana followed with her face still slightly flushed, but she remained focused on her tablet, reviewing various information and notes she had prepared.
They walked through the tall pillars of the building toward the large double doors, wide open. Inside, a vast room with a futuristic design unfolded, surrounded by glass walls that sparkled under the bright white lights illuminating the entire space. Harbor staff bustled about, each absorbed in their duties. On the holographic screens hanging above, flight announcements and departure information blinked every few seconds, creating a rhythm that felt like the heartbeat of a place that never rests.
"Please, Sir, to Platinum Area number one," Ana said while walking slightly ahead of Lein, occasionally glancing to ensure he followed her direction. She pointed to the area with respectful gestures.
Lein nodded and calmly followed Ana's guidance. A few minutes later, they stepped out of the main building, and an extraordinary sight greeted them: a massive ship hovering solidly above the ground, its shadow extending, forming a silhouette that dominated its surroundings.
On the large body of the ship, bright blue letters gleamed conspicuously, reading:
[Astral Dominion]
- Type: King-Class Combat
- Speed: 20,000 km/h
- Defense: 100,000 points
- Weapons: Laser Cannons, Plasma Guns, Thunderbolt Launchers, Torpedo Tubes
- Ability: Accelerates through space up to 1 million km; 1-minute cooldown
The 500-meter-long ship had a sleek, aerodynamic design, perfect for efficiently piercing empty space. Its front was slightly pointed with sharp contours, displaying both assertiveness and elegance, while its hull shimmered, reflecting the surrounding light, giving an impression of strength and invincibility.