The Shadow Nexus Online

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Chapter 23: The Stormbreaker & Captain Sylvia

The sun was beginning to set over Vermillion Haven, casting a golden hue across the bustling port. The cries of gulls echoed through the salty air as Rio made his way toward the largest dock, where an imposing ship towered above the others.

The Stormbreaker.

Its black hull gleamed in the fading light, and silver sails billowed gently in the breeze. The ship had an aura of dominance, as though it had weathered countless storms and emerged stronger. A vessel like that wasn't just for ordinary travelers. It was built for danger.

A group of rugged sailors milled around the deck, their weathered faces marked by a lifetime at sea. They moved with efficiency and discipline, each step purposeful. These weren't simple merchants or fishermen—these were warriors of the ocean.

Rio's eyes narrowed as he scanned the deck, searching for the captain. His gaze landed on a woman standing at the helm. She was unlike anyone he had ever seen.

Captain Sylvia.

Her long, silver hair cascaded down her back, catching the light like strands of moonlight. Her piercing blue eyes, sharp as daggers, met his gaze from across the dock. Dressed in a dark captain's coat adorned with intricate silver embroidery, she exuded an air of authority that demanded respect. Her posture was relaxed, but there was no mistaking the raw strength that lurked beneath.

"You looking for passage?" her voice was smooth, but there was an edge to it—a warning not to waste her time.

"Yeah," Rio replied, stepping forward confidently. "I need to get to the Elven Continent."

Sylvia arched an eyebrow, a glint of amusement flashing in her eyes. "The Elven Continent, huh? That's not a journey for the faint of heart."

Rio's expression remained steady. "I can handle it."

A smirk tugged at the corner of her lips. "We don't take weaklings aboard the Stormbreaker. Either pay extra… or prove your worth."

Rio's eyes gleamed with excitement. "I prefer to fight."

The crew stirred, murmuring among themselves. A few chuckled, others exchanged intrigued glances. It wasn't every day a stranger waltzed onto their dock and challenged their captain's words.

"Bold," Sylvia murmured, her smirk widening. "I like that."

She gestured to her crew, and a scarred, muscular sailor stepped forward. His bare chest was covered in tattoos, and the gleam in his eyes spoke of countless battles fought—and won.

"Malik," Sylvia said with a nod. "Test him."

Malik cracked his knuckles, his grin revealing a row of sharp teeth. "With pleasure."

Rio's grip on his dagger tightened. His heart pounded with anticipation. He had fought in the Colosseum, faced monsters in the Shadow Nexus, and survived the wrath of demons. This… was just another challenge.

"Ready?" Malik growled, his stance lowering.

"Always," Rio replied, a smirk playing on his lips.

The duel was about to begin.

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