Chapter 5, Port

Certainly, whether there are any secret agreements between the mages and the church remains unknown to the public

There is not a breath of wind on the sea surface, a large flock of seabirds chases the waves, circling and flying low, the entire sea surface resembles a vast mirror, reflecting the dazzling white light of the sun

Pier 14 does not have any empty boats; early-rising fishermen set out in their small trawlers at dawn, searching for schools of eels, cod, tuna, and sardines in the boundless sea

Sixteen silver coins, no more than that

There are always people who spend large sums of money to consume poison, which Fulan finds amusing

It doesn't matter; after all, both Mr. William and I work in the First Court. " Fran consoled herself.

The words left the patrons of the tavern in awe, while the barmaids appeared even paler, constantly rolling their eyes, seeking a way to find an excuse to leave work early today

It is of no concern; that mage is my colleague, and you only need to dock in the shallow waters

Wealthy individuals in the suburbs enjoy crushing cannabis leaves and mixing them with tobacco for smoking. These specially processed cigarettes are exorbitantly priced.

Even if the monsters in the rumors are fierce, they still have to work; otherwise, what will they eat tomorrow

The carriage slowly drove out of the city of Feidu, and after leaving the city, its speed suddenly increased significantly

The wizard followed closely behind, like the additional branches extending from the treetops. This is also due to the fact that the practice of arcane arts places too much emphasis on innate talent, resulting in a scarcity of individuals in this profession

Those who violate the rules may find that one night, the wheels of their carriage are sawed off, or even that their expensive nag is poisoned to death

If you anger a lord, you might still escape to a rural area to hide your identity, but if you provoke a wizard, those mysterious spells are far more effective than the tracking of assassins, leaving you with no place to flee

However, the master referred to as Master William has not come to work for over a month

"Damn the midnight butcher," the inspector gritted his teeth, clenching his fists, his knuckles turning pale. He sighed in anger and helplessness.

The fear of these two individuals also unsettled Fran, as various terrifying rumors about the sorcerer tightened the tension in Fran's heart

No one dares to refuse a wizard's request, no matter how reluctant they may be

Fulan stepped aside to avoid a group of dockworkers who were transporting wooden crates. Even though the crates were well-sealed, Fulan still caught a whiff of a sour, pungent odor. It must have been the leaves of a plant called cannabis, just shipped from Turanka.

Division of the family

A total of twenty-one individuals, including the dancers of the troupe, the women, the attendants, the bodyguards, and the guests who had paid a hefty price to enjoy their last night in the tent, were all taken by the demon and lost their lives

The coachman beside them saw that his fellow had a customer approaching, and they all displayed expressions of envy. A few of them opened their mouths to speak, but then swallowed their words back.

"Indeed, in the blink of an eye, the half-mile road was stained red," the coachman exclaimed dramatically

Thus, in the first court, the highest authority is not held by the Chief Justice or the Chief Prosecutor, who wield significant power, but rather by the transcendent figure of the magistrate

"I only stole a purse, is it really worth this?" the thief cried with a tear-streaked face as he was tackled to the ground by four or five strong men

"Oh, he is drunk and cannot be roused no matter what. It's the carnival after all," the guard defended his colleague.

As he traveled along, Fulan inquired at three shipping companies, and the responses were all the same: "Dear Sir, we do not provide short-distance passenger services, and our small cargo boats are also unavailable. You might try asking at Dock 14, where fishing boats are docked; a small sum of money will ensure that the fishermen escort you to your destination as if you were a king."

The royal court teachers and the chief advisors of noble families, wizards typically appear in the public eye in such roles

The boss's skills are quite good, although the taste of the beer is somewhat rough; however, the price is relatively cheaper.

As the small boat approached, after about two hours, the shadow on the horizon grew larger, gradually revealing a clear outline. It was a very small deserted island, and at the highest point of the island stood a tall structure resembling a lighthouse. Fran felt somewhat disappointed; the Mage Tower was not as impressive as he had imagined. At least from the outside, it appeared quite old, much like the houses in the old district of Feidu, dilapidated and worn.

However... it's done, my handsome lad, you are able to return home at one o'clock in the afternoon, you have already received the favor of the sea god, do not be too greedy

However, this leisurely mage still brought trouble to Fran

After spending some time at the tavern, Fulan went to Pier 14. This time, some lucky individuals had returned early, busy cleaning the lively cod from their nets while haggling with the old buyer responsible for procurement at the fish shop.

As a newcomer, the task fell upon Fulan.

It is not uncommon to hear rumors of individuals being turned to cinders by fireballs or becoming unwitting subjects of live experiments for trespassing into the wizard's tower

However, the person who spoke these words was quickly taken away by the patrol officers on the charge of disturbing the peace. The knights in the streets and alleys wore grim expressions, becoming even more vigilant as they surveyed their surroundings, leaving no stone unturned for any signs of disturbance. A hapless thief, in a botched escape, inadvertently attracted half a detachment of soldiers pursuing him from behind

After all, in the eyes of ordinary people, a magician is not an entity that can be easily approached

Compared to the dilapidated roads of the old town and the speed limit regulations in the bustling new district, this road is undoubtedly a suitable place for racing. Fulan leaned out of the car window, enjoying the rush of wind against her face

Human society is composed of various rules, both large and small, which create order

I wish to go to a nearby island, approximately 9 nautical miles away. I am willing to reward you with 20 silver coins.

"If possible, could you come to pick me up when it gets dark? Of course, I will pay you an additional twenty-five silver coins," said Fran.

The entire port resembles a massive anthill; it appears chaotic but is actually characterized by clear divisions of labor

Fulan paid the money, took a few deep breaths by the roadside, and the unique briny scent of the seaside was even more intense than that of Feidu City, which was located a bit farther away.

Why are wizards so reclusive, preferring to build their homes in desolate places?" Fulan thought helplessly as he turned into a small tavern he passed by, preparing to fill his stomach first

The fisherman quickly processed the fish for the buyer, who vaguely said, "I will go find a vehicle to transport it." Then, as if escaping from death, he ran away, his movements agile as if time had reversed, allowing him to return to his youth

Fulan saw that a large patch of sweat had soaked through the shirt on the back of his old comrade

"Sir, I would like to rent your boat." After waiting for a while, it seemed that the debate over the price between the fisherman and the buyer continued until dark, and Fu Lan could not help but ask.

The fisherman, with a mournful expression, agreed

This small tavern, serving those sailors and dockworkers, offers a limited variety of food and drink. Fran chose fried fish fillet and baked potato wedges, along with a small serving of beer

It is well known that mages appear in the secular world, mostly to accumulate funds for the procurement of magical materials, ensuring that the planned experiments can proceed smoothly

The port is located at the estuary more than 30 kilometers from the main urban area of Feidu, and in fact, it possesses various facilities, functioning as a semi-independent large town. Countless goods are unloaded there every day, transported to shops of all sizes in the city, and then circulated to places where people can afford the prices.

The station was empty, with only a few horse-drawn carriages parked at the site. The coachmen yawned in boredom, their faces filled with dejection

"Where is the forensic officer? Why hasn't he arrived yet?" the chief inspector asked angrily

It is evident that Master William is once again engrossed in his magical experiments, losing track of time

Dear Sir, I can no longer approach. The fisherman, drenched in sweat, docked the boat next to a cluster of coral reefs extending from the edge of the island. The waters around this island are filled with hidden reefs; if we go any further, the bottom of the boat will be torn open

"In order to allay your fears, I have set the rent at twenty-five silver coins." Fran neither confirmed nor denied it; if it could encourage the fisherman to muster the courage to take him to the island, he did not mind spending a little more money and pretending to be a wizard.

How much does it cost to go to the dock

"Nine Seas? My lord, you wouldn't be planning to go to that island with the tower, would you?" The fisherman's face turned pale, "It is said that a sorcerer lives there. If one inadvertently angers him, the storm summoned by his spells could prevent my little boat from ever returning."

For thousands of years, the overt and covert struggles in the non-secular realm have seen the Druids, Sorcerers, and other professions wielding mysterious powers gradually defeated by the clergy of the Holy Church, relegated to a fallen force that would be sent to the stake upon discovery. Only the Mages have managed to maintain a tenuous balance of power with the Church, earning the right to walk in the light.

Being addressed as "Master" brought a smile to the buyer's face, yet he remained steadfast and did not budge on the price

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Such matters, even if they reach the prominent figures of the guild, will not receive assistance; instead, they will invite ridicule and a reputation for violating guild rules

Bureaucrats have their own rules, merchants have their own rules, and even beggars have rules that belong to them

The road leading to the port is constructed to be wide and smooth, capable of accommodating ten carriages side by side, and is coated with a thick layer of black asphalt; wealthy individuals have always been generous when it comes to their financial pursuits

My lord, it is very difficult to catch codfish in this season. Based on last year's prices, it is worth at least thirty silver coins.

In the notes of Fran's father, this plant is recorded; cannabis leaves are quite effective for pain relief, but excessive use can easily make one feel anxious.

The continuous all-night revelry has left the citizens of Feidu feeling fatigued despite their joy. On the last night of the festival, the clamor that had persisted until dawn in previous days is no longer in sight. Only a few scattered cats, reeking of alcohol, are making an annoying racket in the streets.

The fisherman had not yet had the chance to respond when the buyer exclaimed, "Handsome young man, could it be that you are the illegitimate son of the sea god? In any case, you must share some of your luck with me. Sixteen silver coins are yours, and the cod fish belongs to me."

Only a demon could commit such an act. These twenty-one individuals were eviscerated, their organs vanished without a trace, yet strangely, not a drop of blood was spilled, as if their abdomens were entirely empty.

After months of hard work, the sailors flocked to every tavern, lavishly spending their wages on ale and the graceful bodies of women. It was common to see drunken men, sprawled in the alleys, sound asleep like mud. However, when the ship's horn sounded, they would immediately don a nonchalant expression and embark on an uncertain journey ahead

This young man has been drawing too much attention lately, likely inciting jealousy among certain influential figures. Many people think this way. However, for Fran, although there is some fear, there is even more excitement.

If the class system of the world is likened to a large tree, the ordinary people are undoubtedly the deep and broad roots, drawing and contributing nutrients; the soldiers are akin to the thick bark, defending against dangers; the noble knights represent the sturdy trunk; the merchants are the veins within the trunk; while the clergy and kings who serve the deities are at the very top, seemingly enjoying the canopy of sunlight first.

"Sir, how may I assist you?" The fisherman curiously examined Fulan, as it was rare to see someone so neatly dressed in the port.

High salary and low work intensity made Fu Lan deeply envious when she was so busy that she couldn't even sit down.

Thus, the father categorized it under the category of "poison"

Even the most seasoned prosecutor appears insignificant in the face of supernatural powers

Shredded paper, debris, discarded clown masks, and colorful balls littered the streets after the carnival, creating a chaotic scene. The sanitation workers have been working overtime, tirelessly until after 10 o'clock, yet the roads have not yet been restored to their former cleanliness

"Damn it, I should have shoved his head into the toilet long ago, so he would know the consequences of delaying work." The inspector spat fiercely, fully aware that even the presence of the forensic officer would make no difference.

Those expensive media and magical materials, even the special allowances that each registered mage can enjoy, are still far from sufficient

In less than an hour, the station carriage turned into the port

The mysterious magical experiments and the spells that forever elude human understanding all tempt Fulan's curiosity

"Three silver coins, if you do not intend to take my carriage back, you will need to add another silver coin," the coachman said flatteringly, "You know, there is a tax for entering the city"

The cobblestone pavement of the port is perpetually damp, and no one can distinguish whether the traces of water on the road are remnants of the sea waves or the sweat of the workers

There are rules of conduct; in the circle of carriages at the post station, deliberately underbidding for work and competing for customers are both unacceptable behaviors

The long-awaited double-horse cart tirelessly delivers various items essential for both the survival and luxury of the wealthy, including glass, silk, seafood, and lacquerware, directly into the hands of its owner

Oh, my good sir, it is too dangerous. " Yu Guang caught a glimpse of the coachman acting recklessly, and he turned his head with effort, braving the wind to shout a warning, " There was once a gentleman who met the same fate, struck by a truck coming from the opposite direction, his head and body separated.

The series of murders that have occurred in Feidu clearly indicates the presence of unnatural factors. The patrol team has sought assistance from the Court of Justice and the Library, which, as part of the judicial system, the Noble Court is duty-bound to dispatch mages to provide assistance.

The patrol knights surrounded a tent belonging to the dance troupe named "The Wizard of Oz." Several citizens were shouting in terror at the knights, then ran aside and began to vomit violently

He only intervenes in cases that involve non-secular matters, such as those that involve other sorcerers or high-profile cases that attract national attention, where there is an urgent need to find evidence to resolve the situation

"Sir, please get into my car; I guarantee it will be comfortable and convenient." As he saw Fulan approaching, a quick-witted driver hurriedly put on a smile and shouted.

Upon hearing the words "magician," the old buyer shivered and cautiously glanced around.

No one is willing to urge a wizard engrossed in experiments; a wizard tower filled with traps and a wizard tormented by incessant failures is undoubtedly an existence that the mundane world seeks to avoid.

Some individuals with a more vivid imagination, nestled in a tavern, earnestly declare to their drinking companions, "That fellow might not be human; perhaps he is a monster that crawled out from the abyss. Tsk tsk, he really is quite particular, consuming only one part at a time. This time it was the entrails, next time it will be the thigh, chewing it down while still alive"

In this semi-arched harbor, small boats continuously flow in and out, unloading cargo from the two-masted sailing freighters anchored in the mid-sea, transporting it back to a dozen or so docks of varying sizes. Muscular workers, bare-chested and only wearing thick leather pads on their shoulders, shout as they lift bundles of astonishing weight, carrying them to the freight yard a hundred meters away

"Heaven, I would only give you sixteen if it were cod; if it were those unappetizing and foul-smelling sardines, I wouldn't even spare them a glance"

Many people say that just standing by this black horse road for half an hour, the wealth you see is equivalent to a lifetime's income.

It seems that the lively spirits have not yet had their fill of merriment; as the clock strikes, piercing screams shatter the silence of the city, weaving a chaotic web.

Everyone dies quite suddenly, their faces still bearing the expression of revelry, as if they have not yet had the time to show any fear

The murder case that occurred at midnight last night has made it impossible for the patrol team to conceal the existence of the butcher in the city, and rumors have caused a significant decrease in the number of pedestrians on the streets and alleys.

"Colleague... are you also a magician?" The fisherman retreated a few steps, his face pale and his body trembling.

The water is not deep, Fulan rolled up his pant legs, holding his shoes in his hands, and walked towards the island along the path that spread out with the coral reefs

This master of mental magic enjoys a salary that leaves ordinary people astounded in the First Court, and general administrative regulations cannot constrain him at all

However, compared to the trivialities of the secular world, the mysterious summoning rituals and alchemical experiments are the true essence of their lives