Chapter 24:Unidentified Creature

When Lei Jiu's subordinates found him again, he was shirtless and sweating profusely in the blacksmith shop, diligently working to clear his mind. This was his habit from "Professional Warfare," ensuring that even in turbulent times, he wouldn't neglect skill practice.

Lei Jiu initially chose the red-haired breed for their strength and adaptability to various jobs. Despite concerns about their intelligence growth, it wouldn't really affect his IQ.

Though Lang Yongning praised Lei Jiu's blacksmithing skills, his low skill level limited the actual bonus effect. Nonetheless, the iron ingots he produced surpassed those of other blacksmiths and apprentices.

When Huhu Longlong rushed in with Nangong Dian and Tang Yongxin, Lei Jiu sensed trouble. Setting aside his work, he approached Nangong Dian after dousing himself with a bucket of water.

"What happened?" he inquired.

"Sir, two fishing spots in the fishing team were attacked by unknown creatures in the sea, and three people were injured!"

"Are the injuries serious?"

"The target of the unknown creature seems to be the fishermen's catch, as the injuries are superficial scratches, not serious."

Lei Jiu felt relieved, knowing the injuries weren't severe. The fishing team was crucial to the island's food supply, and any serious injuries would affect fish yields.

"First, call the fishing teams from other spots to withdraw to avoid further attacks."

"I already sent someone to inform them before coming."

"Good."

Lei Jiu's genuine concern for the wounded and the safety of others moved the fishing team members. Even Nangong Dian couldn't help but nod in approval.

Lei Jiu inspected the wounded with everyone, confirming they were okay. Luo Zheng and Nicotine, whom he had summoned, arrived along with five militiamen.

"Come on, follow me to assess the situation!"

Out at sea, six fishing boats floated above the fishing spots. Tang Yongxin led three fishermen on two boats, casting their nets to catch fish. Meanwhile, Lei Jiu, on the other four boats, scanned the surrounding sea vigilantly.

Minutes ticked by, with a seemingly endless stream of fish below the surface. However, the elusive attacker never revealed itself. Just as everyone's patience wore thin, a faintly huge shadow emerged from the depths.

According to descriptions from previously attacked fishermen, the assailant's claws were the only visible part when it struck. While it resembled massive claws, it didn't match known marine creatures like shrimp or crabs. The ratio of its body to its claws perplexed them.

As the shadow rose slowly, Lei Jiu observed it carefully. He had expected a giant shrimp or crab, but it turned out to be a sea turtle with elongated forelimbsâ€"a clawed sea turtle.

"Do any of you know what this is?" Lei Jiu asked, seeking insight from his subordinates.

To his surprise, Nicotine spoke up. "You recognize it?"

Nicotine, seemingly amused, replied, "I'm from Bracada, high in the snowy mountains. I've never seen the sea before waking up here, so how would I know?"

"Then..." Lei Jiu trailed off.

"I want to remind you, Island Master, that while I don't know this creature, its shell is a high-level magic material. Ground into a powder, it can aid meditation for thousands," Nicotine explained.

Lei Jiu's eyes widened in realization, his gaze turning red with determination.

"Can you estimate your strength? Can you defeat it without injury?" Lei Jiu asked, keeping a level head.

After a moment's thought, Nicotine replied, "I'm uncertain. Other than its claws, the rest of its body is hidden underwater. Turtles have strong defenses, so if our attack fails, it may sink, rendering our efforts futile. However..."

"But what?" Lei Jiu pressed.

"Nangong Zhan's ice magic is ideal for this situation. With calm seas and slow currents, he can freeze the area, allowing us to either defeat the creature or bring it ashore," Nicotine suggested.

Lei Jiu couldn't help but feel impatient with Nicotine's delay, realizing Nangong Zhan's solution was straightforward.

"Nangong, any issues?" Lei Jiu inquired.

Nangong Di reassured him, "It's close to the island. I can sustain my magic to freeze the waters."

Satisfied, Lei Jiu ordered, "Let's begin!" Nangong Dian chanted the incantation, casting ice magic at the sea turtle, causing the surrounding water to rapidly freeze.

As the turtle's movements slowed, Lei Jiu couldn't help but feel embarrassed seeing Nangong Dian cast magic with his bare hands. He resolved to find suitable wood for staves in the coming months.

With a barrage of ice projectiles, Nangong Dian trapped the turtle in a solid block of ice, signaling success.