Douluo Dalu: The Abandoned Child

The next morning, the sky was painted orange and black as Dugu Bei arrived at the bay. The salty breeze tickled his nose, and the sound of waves lapping against the ships filled the air. He felt a rare sense of excitement mixed with apprehension. He had barely slept, eager to embark on this journey to Sea God Island, but as he scanned the multitude of ships docked at the bay, a sinking realization hit him: he had forgotten to ask how to identify the ship.

Bei groaned inwardly, scolding himself for such a careless oversight. His pulse quickened as he considered the possibility of missing the ship altogether. He clenched his fists and his frustration was increasing when a voice from behind startled him.

"You actually came. I don't know if you're brave or just stupid," the voice said with a touch of amusement.

Bei turned sharply to see the Madam standing there, her hands on her hips and a bemused smile playing on her lips. Relief washed over him as he met her sharp gaze.

Bei grinned and said, "I'm well known for both of those features, Captain."

The Madam chuckled and motioned for him to follow. "Come on, then. Let me show you your ship."

As they made their way through the bustling docks, the Madam led Bei to an unassuming spot where a massive black ship suddenly seemed to materialize among the smaller ones. Bei blinked, momentarily stunned by the sight. The ship was unlike any he had ever seen, its hull gleaming black like polished obsidian. At the top of the tallest mast, a black flag with a white turtle emblem billowed in the breeze. The ship exuded an aura of mystery and power.

"Amazing, isn't it?" the Madam said, pride evident in her voice. "This ship has also been in my family for generations. It has a special ability that makes it invisible to most eyes. Unfortunately, it won't fool strong soul beasts, but it's kept us safe from plenty of other threats, including other ships."

"Amazing indeed," Bei murmured, unable to take his eyes off the ship. He followed the Madam aboard, where the crew greeted her with enthusiastic cheers.

"Welcome aboard, Captain!" the crew shouted in unison.

The Madam smiled and turned to Bei. "Welcome to The Black Queen," she said, her voice carrying a note of pride.

Bei felt a surge of excitement at her words, but it was tinged with sadness as his thoughts drifted to Liu Erlong and Dugu Xin. He didn't blame them for not coming. This journey was filled with danger, and the likelihood of death loomed over them all. Still, the absence of his family left a hollow ache in his chest. 

Lost in his thoughts, Bei barely registered the sound of approaching footsteps until a familiar voice broke through his reverie.

"What's with the sad face, nephew?"

Bei's head snapped up, and his eyes widened in shock as he saw two figures boarding the ship. Guided by a few crew members, Dugu Xin and Liu Erlong strode toward him, their expressions determined.

"You didn't think we'd let you have all the fun, did you?" Liu Erlong teased, a smirk tugging at her lips.

Dugu Xin stepped forward and enveloped Bei in a firm hug. "We would never let you face such a challenge alone," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "We're in this together, Bei. We'll fight together, and if it comes to it, we'll die together."

Bei's heart swelled with gratitude and relief. For a moment, words failed him, and he simply nodded, his throat tight. He was about to respond when the Madam's commanding voice rang out.

"Get ready to sail!" she barked.

The crew immediately sprang into action, their synchronized movements a testament to their discipline and experience. "Yes, Captain!" they chorused, their voices echoing across the bay.

Dugu Xin placed a hand on Bei's shoulder. "Let's find a spot where we won't be in their way," he suggested.

The trio moved to a quieter part of the deck, where they could observe the crew without interfering. The deck was alive with activity as sailors hoisted sails, checked ropes, and prepared the ship for departure. The salty sea breeze carried the sound of their laughter and shouts, creating an atmosphere of both excitement and tension.

Bei leaned against the railing, his gaze fixed on the horizon. The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a golden glow over the water. He felt a renewed sense of purpose. This journey was a gamble, but with his family by his side, he felt ready to face whatever lay ahead.

"You've got that look again," Liu Erlong said, breaking the silence. "The one that says you're about to do something reckless."

Bei chuckled. "Reckless is just another word for bold."

Liu Erlong rolled her eyes, but a small smile tugged at her lips. Dugu Xin shook his head, though there was a glimmer of amusement in his eyes.

"Boldness is one thing," Dugu Xin said. "Let's just make sure it doesn't get us all killed."

Their lighthearted exchange was interrupted by the sound of the Madam's voice. She stood at the helm, her presence commanding as she addressed the crew.

"All hands on deck!" she called out. "We set sail for Sea God Island. Be prepared for anything. This journey will test your courage, your strength, and your resolve. But remember, you are the crew of The Black Queen. We've faced impossible odds before, and we'll do it again. Now, let's show the sea what we're made of!"

The crew erupted into cheers, their enthusiasm infectious. Bei felt a surge of determination as he joined in, his voice blending with the others.

As The Black Queen began to move, the ship gliding gracefully through the water, Bei couldn't help but feel pure excitement. The journey ahead was uncertain, but he knew one thing for sure: they would face it together, as a family.

And so, with the wind at their backs and the horizon stretching endlessly before them, The Black Queen set sail.