Chapter 259
Far beyond Black Cloud, a merchant fleet trafficking human slaves advanced across the heaving surface of the Jade Sea. Like a school of black fish swimming in formation, the ships moved slowly through the vast waters where Lin Hui and Tuyue had once battled.
Aboard one of the vessels, the bearded captain, Xia Xingtao, stroked his chin and peered through the crystal window at the front of his cabin. "This is my third time through this stretch recently. I don't know why, but the wind and waves seem much rougher than before. Do you feel it, Aina?"
He glanced back at Vice Captain Aina.
"I do," Aina said. She had dark skin and short black hair, dressed simply in a purple short-sleeved top and skirt. Ruby chains glittered at her neck, wrists, and ankles.
Her pleasant looks and exquisite figure, combined with her decent strength, had made her the object of admiration for many aboard the ship.
"Not only that—there are far fewer monsters in these waters than before. Even ordinary sea fish are practically nowhere to be seen," she added.
"Something must have happened to cause a change this drastic," Captain Xia mused.
"Wait." Aina suddenly frowned. "Do you hear that? It sounds like faint singing."
"Singing?" Xia Xingtao furrowed his brows and listened.