The Dark Star Electric Boat was long and slender, tapering to a sharp, conical point like an awl, and it speared into the iron vessel carrying Shi Yan and Xia Xinyan.

This Dark Star Electric Boat, forged from some unknown metal, was entirely pitch-black and ice-cold. Its prow, sharp as a sword tip, had pierced deep into the iron boat where Shi Yan sat, nearly cleaving the vessel carrying the two of them in half.

The Dark Star Electric Boat was not long, only some thirty or forty meters, and a group of five stood upon it.

The young man leading them wore a silver long gown; his eyebrows were like drawn swords, and he possessed a noble and extraordinary presence. Standing there, he seemed like a cold sword drawn from its scabbard, exuding an oppressive aura that commanded awe.

At that moment, the youth looked slightly embarrassed. He dryly chuckled, cupped his hands, and called out from a distance, “My apologies. I was preoccupied controlling the vessel and rushing ahead; I moved a bit too fast. By the time I realized a collision was imminent, I couldn't steer clear in time. My apologies, my apologies. I am willing to compensate you both for any losses.”

Behind him, four martial artists of the Nirvana Nest Realm were lined up shoulder to shoulder. These four elders varied in height and girth, but all possessed steady auras, their eyes gleaming with divine light, evidence of their profound cultivation.

“If I had struck your boat, and I offered a simple apology and compensation for your damages, would you be so agreeable?” Xia Xinyan’s expression was indifferent, a killing intent hidden deep within her eyes as she spoke coldly.

“That…”

The youth was momentarily stunned, then managed a strained, dry laugh, “I am the most easy-going person you’ll meet. If you had truly struck me, I wouldn't even ask for compensation. Heh heh, when dealing with beauties, I never nitpick.” The young man repeatedly cupped his hands, his manner extremely friendly, clearly wishing to avoid any conflict with Xia Xinyan.

The youth was at the Second Heaven of the Hundred Tribulations Realm, tall and slender, his skin as smooth and warm as jade, his features striking. By any measure, he was an outstandingly handsome man.

“Hmph,” Xia Xinyan replied coolly, neither warm nor cold. “If you tell me what happened on Menluo Island, I will let the matter drop.”

Shi Yan was taken aback.

This young man was clearly Gu Jiange of the Gu family, possessing the Sword Spirit Martial Soul and wielding the spiritual-grade weapon, the Dragon Slaying Sword—a truly exceptional young talent of the Gu family.

A figure of this caliber would typically exude arrogance within the Merchant Alliance, yet this person was refined and gentle in manner, rather unique. Shi Yan wondered how the Gu family had managed to raise such a person, which piqued his curiosity.

Before Gu Jiange could speak, a short, stout martial artist standing behind him subtly frowned and said in a low voice, “Miss, my Young Master is kind-hearted and is willing to compensate you for your damages, so please name your price.”

This man was at the Third Heaven of the Nirvana Nest Realm. Standing there, his presence was as profound and deep as a mountain range; within his stout body seemed to be the power capable of shaking peaks.

“Damages?” Xia Xinyan sneered, pressing her advantage aggressively. “I don't lack that little bit of compensation.”

Gu Jiange cupped his hands again, forcing a smile. “Please calm your anger, Miss. A tremendous, world-shaking earthquake suddenly