Sudden Arrival

The Protoss waited with a smile on his face. At this moment, Jiang Fan was facing one of the toughest and most critical decisions of his life. Whichever path he chose, there would be no room for regret. If he opted for the first two rewards, he would commit to remaining in the Endless Star Territory. On the other hand, selecting the third reward, with the chance to explore an unknown domain, meant a potentially irreversible journey.

"Have you made up your mind?" The Protoss inquired, his smile unwavering.

"I have," Jiang Fan affirmed with a nod. "I choose the third reward."

Upon hearing this, a glint of satisfaction flickered in the old man's eyes. "Very good!" he exclaimed with a smile.

"Do you also prefer the third reward?" Jiang Fan asked.

"It's only natural," The old man replied, his smile persistent. "Opting for the first two rewards would result in their delivery, but the Ancient Star would then choose another candidate. Without courage, one is not fit to succeed the Ancient Star."

"It seems I've made the right decision," Jiang Fan remarked.

"It's hard to say," The old man's tone shifted to a serious one. "Venturing into an unknown domain is a perilous and enigmatic journey. What lies ahead? No one can foresee. However, there's a caveat."

"Please, go on," Jiang Fan urged, attentive.

"In the endless void," The old man continued, "many places pose grave dangers. Even the mightiest beings could perish in accidents. With your current strength," he glanced at Jiang Fan, "you're akin to an ant in the vast expanse of the cosmos. You're too fragile."

"Understood," Jiang Fan acknowledged. "But I am resolute in my decision."

"Very well," The old man nodded, extending his right hand. In the next moment, a palm-sized object materialized and flew toward Jiang Fan.

Jiang Fan observed the ticket, resembling a flying fish, with curiosity, unaware of its composition. It exuded a mysterious aura, captivating him at first sight.

"This is the ticket for the vessel," The old man stated as he tossed the object to Jiang Fan.

Taking a closer look, Jiang Fan couldn't help but wonder, "Where do these ferry tickets come from?"

"No one knows," the old man explained. "They appear suddenly, sometimes in the void, sometimes in bustling streets, or even in restaurants. As long as you are lucky, you can even see it when you open your eyes from your sleep. They're impossible to trace, as they emerge without warning."

"Leave that aside," the old man advised, glancing at Jiang Fan. "Your task now is to pack up promptly and await the ship's arrival."

"So soon?" Jiang Fan raised his eyebrows.

"The ship's appearance time isn't fixed," The old man clarified. "But it's likely within the next three months. Missing it might mean forfeiting the opportunity altogether."

"Understood. I'll prepare," Jiang Fan responded, feeling a mix of emotions at the sudden turn of events.