Walker Of The Worlds

2747  Imperial Ocean Quay

Upon getting closer, Meng Bai was utterly mesmerized. The shoreline stretched endlessly before him, a breathtaking fusion of golden sand and the vast, shimmering ocean.

Beneath the crystalline waves, vibrant coral formations lay in a dazzling array, their hues shifting from fiery reds to deep blues and brilliant yellows. Long strands of seaweed swayed with the tide, their emerald fronds undulating in an elegant underwater ballet.

Closer to the shore, sand dollars, starfish, and tiny shrimp meandered through the shallows, mingling in a delicate dance of marine life. The beach was adorned with towering palm and coconut trees, their lush green leaves rustling gently in the breeze, bending as if in silent reverence to the sea. The salty scent of the ocean mixed with the fresh aroma of tropical flora, creating an intoxicating atmosphere.

"HAHAHA!" Meng Bai's laughter rang out as he sprinted across the warm sand and plunged into the inviting waters. He kicked up splashes, his excitement boundless, the waves playfully embracing him. The water was warm, its touch gentle yet exhilarating, and it wrapped around him like an old friend welcoming him home.

Watching the boy frolic, the three men couldn't help but smile.

"Ah, to be young again." Monk Hushu sighed, his serene expression reflecting a rare moment of nostalgia.

"It does seem like we made the right choice coming here," Lin Mu remarked, his gaze following Meng Bai's movements with a hint of amusement.

"Wait until you see where we're staying," Daoist Chu said with a smirk, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.

Meng Bai, already breathless from his excitement, turned back. "Where are we staying?" he asked eagerly, his eyes darting toward the lavish villas and inns dotting the coastline. Each structure looked grander than the last, their intricate designs exuding wealth and sophistication. Just the thought of residing in one of them left the boy in awe—it was a luxury he had never dared to dream of.

"Let's go. It's not far," Daoist Chu declared as he led them onward.

And sure enough, the place was nothing short of extraordinary.

The Imperial Ocean Quay sprawled over two square kilometers, the largest and most opulent establishment in the entire area. Its grand main building loomed over the ocean, a towering structure rising twenty stories high, its walls gleaming with the iridescent scales of the legendary Blue Coral Armored Lobster.

The roof was adorned with intricate sculptures of mythical sea creatures—giant crabs, sea serpents, mermaids, and even celestial dragons—each meticulously crafted to radiate magnificence.

Perched a hundred meters from the shore, the entire complex appeared as if it were floating upon the sea itself. A grand entry pavilion stood at the forefront, serving as both a welcoming hall and a reception area.

Extending beyond it, a network of elegant bridges crisscrossed over the water, leading to villas and private courtyards built on stilts above the waves. From a distance, it all looked like an enchanted kingdom rising from the ocean's depths.

Tens of thousands of lanterns hung from the bridges, their soft glow promising a spectacle when night fell. Servants and attendants bustled about, their movements swift and practiced.

Some carried trays laden with delicacies, while others transported fine silken robes, scented oils, and luxurious amenities for the esteemed guests. Floating pavilions stood in the water, serving as venues for fine dining, entertainment, and tranquil relaxation.

Meng Bai's jaw nearly hit the ground.

"This... this is where we're staying?" he stammered, his wide eyes taking in the splendor. "This isn't an inn—it's an ocean palace!" His voice carried across the area, drawing the attention of numerous well-dressed patrons.

The aristocratic guests turned their gazes upon him, their expressions shifting from mild curiosity to veiled condescension. To them, the boy's enthusiasm betrayed his inexperience—an outsider, unaccustomed to such luxury. His simple gray robes did little to elevate his status, marking him as someone who clearly didn't belong among the elite.

Adding to their silent judgment, the cultivations of the children residing here far outstripped Meng Bai's. Several young guests at the Nascent Soul realm strolled about with an air of entitlement, their presence an unspoken reminder of the world's hierarchy.

If not for his esteemed companions— Lin Mu, Daoist Chu and Monk Hushu—Meng Bai might have been mistaken for a beggar and promptly removed.

Feeling the weight of the scrutiny, the boy hesitated, his excitement dimming slightly.

Lin Mu, however, did not fail to notice the lingering gazes and the unspoken mockery in the air. His eyes darkened.

SHUA!

A subtle yet potent wave of his aura washed over the onlookers. Though restrained, its sheer presence sent shivers down their spines, forcing them to avert their eyes immediately. Some stiffened in their seats, while others quickly found interest in their drinks, unwilling to provoke the unknown force that had just silenced them.

"Ignore them," Lin Mu said coolly. "Let them think whatever they want."

Daoist Chu chuckled. "Oh, we'll give them something to think about soon enough. Come, let's check in."

They strode toward the grand reception hall, where a well-dressed attendant greeted them with an ingratiating smile.

"Welcome to the Imperial Ocean Quay. How may I assist you?" he inquired smoothly, his gaze sweeping over the group. He quickly assessed Lin Mu, noting his refined demeanor and noble bearing. Daoist Chu exuded the aura of a high-ranking cultivator, while Monk Hushu carried himself with the grace of an enlightened master.

Then his eyes fell upon Meng Bai.

The teenager, in his plain robes, appeared like an anomaly among them. The attendant's brow furrowed slightly before his smile returned, more professional than genuine.

"Three distinguished gentlemen... and their servant boy," he stated.

Lin Mu's expression darkened instantly.

"Oh, and we do have separate quarters for servants—at no extra charge," the clerk added helpfully.

Lin Mu's voice was calm but firm. "Disciple."

The clerk blinked. "Pardon?"

"He is my disciple," Lin Mu repeated, his tone leaving no room for debate.

The clerk swallowed hard, a strange pressure pressing against him. Internally, he cursed his own misjudgment.

Time for a bit of faceslapping

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P.s for more faceslapping check out my new novel: Strongest Scammer: Scamming the world one death at a time.

Grand_Void_Daoist