Eli Winters hovered in midair, his hands weaving through the air as immense spatial power surged outward like an invisible giant hand, forcibly smoothing the roaring tsunami. The breathtaking scene was witnessed by countless onlookers, and news of Eli's feat spread like wildfire.
When Eli returned to Seven Rivers City, the water had not yet fully receded, yet the residents who had been hiding indoors could no longer contain their excitement and joy. They opened their windows and poured onto balconies, shouting heartfelt and exuberant cheers toward Eli in the sky.
Eli gave a faint smile at the enthusiastic reception. He did not linger to bask in praise or glory. With a flash, he dove directly into the urgent and exhausting rescue efforts.
Time passed, minute by minute, until nightfall. Mayor Iceberg, weighed down by fatigue, finally found Eli and the others still tirelessly saving trapped citizens. Stumbling forward, he bent deeply in a respectful bow. Guilt washed over his face as he realized how wrong he had been to doubt Eli's capabilities.
"Mr. Winters, if it weren't for your intervention, Seven Rivers City would have suffered catastrophic damage. And I would carry the shame of my own foolishness for all time, perhaps even needing to die to atone for it!" Iceberg said earnestly.
Eli waved his hand lightly and replied casually, "It's nothing. No need to dwell on it. The best way to repay me is simply to fulfill our agreement and build a ship that meets my standards."
Iceberg's eyes brightened with determination. He nodded solemnly. "Rest assured, Mr. Winters. I will dedicate every ounce of knowledge and skill I have to construct a peerless, top-tier ship for you, as repayment for the life-saving aid you provided today!"
Afterward, they discussed the remaining details of the city's rescue operations. Eli noticed that Iceberg's face was pale and his energy low, so he urged, "You look utterly exhausted. Go get some rest. If you push yourself any further, I'm worried you might collapse here suddenly."
This time, Iceberg did not stubbornly resist. After expressing his gratitude to Eli and the rescue team, he slowly turned and made his way to rest.
Although the tsunami that struck Seven Rivers City had been powerful, the damage was not as severe as many feared. Fortunately, no lives were lost. As the waters receded, the city began reconstruction in less than a week, with Eli and his companions actively lending their support.
Residents who had witnessed Eli's heroic deeds were filled with gratitude and admiration. Their excitement was palpable, especially among the bold and lively girls, who did not hide their affections.
Filina stayed close to Eli during this time, much to his mix of amusement and embarrassment.
With the rescue complete, Eli decided to return to Carrera Shipworks to check on the progress of his new ship. Upon entering the shipyard, he was surprised to see Old Tom there as well.
Iceberg, noticing Eli, immediately paused his work and hurried over. Since Eli had saved the city, Iceberg treated him with utmost respect. No matter how Eli tried to downplay things, Iceberg persisted in his humble demeanor. Over time, Eli gave up attempting to convince him otherwise.
After a brief greeting, Eli smiled and pointed toward Tom, who was busy with a team of burly workers. "Why is Mr. Tom involved in shipbuilding now? Has his sea-train project been completed?"
Iceberg's lips curled slightly in a smile. "The sea-train is on track. Even without him, the project would proceed smoothly. But he remained to oversee it personally. As for why he's here now, I'm not certain, though I suspect it's because you successfully saved Seven Rivers City."
Eli's eyes lit up, and he laughed. "Then this is a lucky break! Having a master shipbuilder of Tom's renown personally assist can only make this ship even more perfect!"
Hearing this, Tom paused his work, set down his tools, and laughed heartily as he strode over to Eli.
"Eli, thank you for saving Seven Rivers City," Tom said sincerely.
"You're welcome. It's the least I could do. Such a beautiful city shouldn't be destroyed," Eli replied with a wave of his hand.
Tom nodded. "You're strong and kind-hearted. Since you're here, let me show you the new designs for your ship." With that, he led Eli inside.
Tom spread the large design plans on the table, pointing to intricate lines and explaining, "This section uses a new material for added durability. Here is a unique propulsion system for enhanced speed…"
Eli listened intently, his eyes sparkling. Though the system-provided designs were excellent, he had additional modifications in mind. He paid careful attention, occasionally giving his input.
As they discussed, one of Iceberg's aides hurried in, whispering something in his ear. Iceberg's face darkened immediately.
"What is it, Espagu?" Tom asked, noticing Iceberg's expression.
"Nothing for you to worry about, teacher. Continue your discussion. I have matters at City Hall to attend to," Iceberg said, regaining composure, and quickly departed.
Tom and Eli exchanged glances, sensing that something was amiss. Iceberg was usually calm, so this was unusual.
"Eli, why don't you go find out what's going on?" Tom suggested.
"Why don't you go?" Eli replied with a sly glance.
"Espagu wouldn't tell me. You might get more information," Tom said with a knowing smile.
Eli chuckled. "Alright, as Iceberg's employer, I'll see what's happening."
"Also, Eli, I have some memory metal here that can be used in your ship. If incorporated, your vessel can repair itself from ordinary damage instantly. Not bad, right?" Tom said with a grin.
Eli's excitement grew. "Then I'll make sure to help Iceberg with whatever problem he's facing," he said firmly.
Satisfied, Tom watched as Eli prepared to act. Sensing Iceberg's location, Eli used spatial transit to appear before him.
Startled at Eli's sudden appearance, Iceberg relaxed only when he saw him. "Eli, what brings you here?"
"Tom asked me to check on you. You looked troubled, and he was worried," Eli said casually.
Iceberg sighed. "You're right. I've been concerned."
"Really? What's the matter? Perhaps I can help." Eli pulled an apple from space and began eating as he spoke.
Iceberg's eyes brightened. With Eli's strength, there was hope.
He spoke gravely. "The Spandam incident has now reached the World Government's attention. They've issued a ruthless ultimatum: hand over you, my teacher, and the Grim Reaper blueprints. Should I refuse, they will issue a Demon-Slaying Order against Seven Rivers City. With our current power, openly defying them is suicide."
Eli frowned, pondering the situation. Though it involved him indirectly, it was not entirely unexpected. Those who could not touch him naturally turned their malice toward others like Iceberg.
Eli was not afraid of the Demon-Slaying Order. What troubled him was that he could not remain in Seven Rivers City indefinitely. Once he left, those cunning villains would likely attack Iceberg and others. While he could leave spatial markers for emergencies, he could not monitor everything constantly. If the villains struck suddenly, even timely detection might not guarantee a rescue.
"So, what's your plan?" Eli asked.
Iceberg shook his head, conflicted. He could not sacrifice his teacher, yet the World Government was overwhelming.
"Could you protect my teacher?" he asked, hope and desperation in his eyes.
"I can protect him, but I won't stay in Seven Rivers City forever. Are you certain he'll come with me? Even if I take Tom, the World Government may still target you. Spandam's father has influence," Eli replied, unconcerned with protecting Tom for now.
"Just protect him, and I'll handle everything else," Iceberg said firmly.
"Let's leave a safety net," Eli said. He placed a spatial marker on Iceberg to teleport him away in case of mortal danger, and handed him a silver coin engraved with a spatial symbol, allowing him to trigger Eli's attention when needed.
Iceberg accepted it reverently. "Thank you, Eli. I don't know how to repay you."
"No need. Tom already gave me plenty of useful things," Eli said with a smile.
Iceberg said nothing more but resolved silently that he would always aid Eli whenever needed.
Meanwhile, at a World Government CP organization branch, Spandam's face darkened as he listened to a report.
"That bastard! He thinks he's someone? A small-town mayor defying the World Government, and you, Eli, killed my son. I will make you pay in blood!" Spandam roared like a demon, terrifying his subordinates.
"Get out, all of you!" he bellowed.
The subordinates hurried out, muttering among themselves about Spandam's irrational rage.
Spandam panted heavily, finally calming slightly. Eli was too strong. He could not seek revenge alone; he would need the World Government's power. But would they intervene? Even admirals had fallen to Eli.
It didn't matter. He would not swallow this insult. Eli Winters, just wait.
He retrieved something from his safe and set off for the sacred Marijoa, the home of the Celestial Dragons.