Chapter 72. Traditional Dish.
*Van. Shu Jing Island. City of Shu Jing.*
The entire remainder of the voyage was shrouded in a somber atmosphere. Elder Jian's people, who were friends or even relatives to one another, found it difficult to meet the glazed-over eyes of their comrades, who had so recently been full of life.
"And those were just the Junior Sages," Elder Jian finally broke the silence. "Not a weak force at all," he whistled.
I understand him perfectly... There is one main Fire Temple on the uninhabited volcanic Crescent Island, where mostly the Elder Sages and some Junior Sages reside. But there are almost as many smaller Fire Temples as there are inhabited islands in the archipelago. After all, their duties include not only coronations but also weddings, memorial rites, and much more. In other words, there are a lot of them. And let's not forget their followers among the aristocracy and high-ranking military officials, who also have their own people.
"Go ahead, brew some tea, and head back. We'll wait for you," he said as soon as we docked. "On the way back, we'll visit an unnamed island where, for months now, an unknown person has been abducting villagers."
"I'll try not to delay," I waved goodbye, sniffing my clothes once more. Thankfully, I brought a spare set; it would have been awkward to attend a reception smelling less than pleasant.
Unnoticeably, my mood began to lift, all thanks to the picturesque views of this island. The city was nestled in a mountain valley, beside a raging river that flowed through a rocky gorge. The river had numerous rapids and waterfalls. The local nature even somewhat resembled the planet from James Cameron's *Avatar*.
A handful of onlookers watched my back as I walked—literally just a few. A stark contrast to the bustling and vibrant capital, life here seemed to stand still. But perhaps this is the very tranquility the locals seek.
"When I'm old, I'll probably want to live in a place like this," I smirked, knowing full well that old age is far from knocking on my door.
Piandao's estate was not far from the city, perched on a cliff, and more resembled a well-fortified fortress. *My home is my fortress* takes on a literal meaning here, though I'd do the same in his position. After all, there are still high-ranking individuals who don't particularly like him.
From the cliff, the entire harbor is visible, which is probably why I was already expected at the estate gates.