Into the Whirlpool

The realization of the riddle's meaning was a turning point in their journey. Li Xue felt a rush of anticipation as the solution clicked into place. But knowing the answer was just the first step; there was much to do. The timing of the lunar eclipse was essential, and it wouldn't last for long. They had to be at the whirlpool at the right time, and for that, they had to calculate their journey meticulously.

Li Xue, Min-Ho, and Aanya spent long hours pouring over sea charts, lunar cycle documents, and ancient texts about the whirlpool. The ship's library turned into their workspace, the wooden table littered with parchments, quills, and ink pots. Meanwhile, the rest of the crew were not idle. They were working tirelessly to ensure the ship was ready for whatever lay ahead. They checked and rechecked the sails, the hull, the anchor, every single part of the ship was scrutinized and reinforced.