Chapter 220 “Team”
This novel is translated and hosted on bcatranslation
Morris and his companions had been urgently recruited due to the pressing disaster in Pland. However, even if they hadn’t joined today, Duncan already had underlying plans to broaden his sphere of influence. From Duncan’s perspective, the individuals presently on the Vanished were particularly well-suited for his purposes.
Morris was renowned for his historical knowledge, vast expertise across multiple subjects, and his devout belief in the God of Wisdom. His extensive knowledge was precisely what Duncan had been seeking. Moreover, as an esteemed member of society, Morris held valuable connections and a high social status that could be beneficial when the need arose.
Shirley and Dog, a shadow demon and its summoner respectively, maintained a mutualistic relationship. Their combined understanding and power concerning the shadow realm provided insights that even the wisdom of Morris couldn’t match.
Then there was Nina, Duncan’s sweet and obedient niece, who was the present holder of the sun fragment.
As Duncan’s eyes leisurely traveled around the long dining table, he noticed the mix of emotions on the faces present: anxiety, restraint, and plain curiosity.
It appeared that none recognized the unique “group” that had been inadvertently formed during this meal. Their shared current identity bound them: They were the crew of the Vanished.
“I want to reiterate my earlier promise,” Duncan began, his voice gentle and reminiscent of the soft waves outside, “Being part of the Vanished’s crew won’t limit your personal freedoms. I have no interest in forced loyalty, sacrifices, or any similar gestures—they hold no value for me. What binds us now is a connection that, for simplicity’s sake, can be thought of as a loosely organized team.”
He continued, “To be candid, I’ve been detached from modern society for many years. Morris is well aware of how long it has been since the Vanished was last seen, spanning almost a century. I’m also aware of the frightening legends surrounding me and this ship. To some extent, those tales have a basis in reality. For a long period, the ship was indeed uncontrollable.”
“However, as evident now, I’ve managed to reclaim my humanity and have stabilized the Vanished. I now find myself intrigued by the current world, which is a century more advanced than when I last knew it.”
Duncan spoke calmly, reflecting on his words. He’d formulated this speech during a fishing trip, understanding the importance of introducing himself as a benevolent and rational captain. Given the dark history of the Vanished, he felt this approach would be essential to ensure potential crew members wouldn’t immediately be frightened off.
Regarding whether the newcomers believed his tale or not, that was an issue only they could determine for themselves.
One must admit that fishing, with its tranquility, is an activity that nourishes both the mind and the body. Duncan felt a deep sense of gratitude towards the gifts he received from nature, especially the blessings from the descendants of the ocean.
Upon hearing Duncan’s revelations, Morris’s face took on a contemplative look. He grappled with whether the voice he heard was genuine or a figment of his imagination. Additionally, he found it challenging to accept that the Vanished, as presented before him, was its actual form and not some deceptive illusion. Yet, the warm and amiable demeanor of the captain made Morris reconsider. The more he thought about it, the more he began to believe—especially if it meant accepting that the benevolent nature of this otherworldly entity was indeed real.
In contrast, Shirley seemed deep in thought, trying to make sense of the situation. Dog, sitting next to the introspective gothic girl, appeared to have grasped the essence of the conversation. “So, you’re implying that you want us to be like your family and assist you in this realm?”
With a reassuring smile, Duncan replied, “It’s a potential path we could take. Whenever I need assistance, I’ll reach out. But let’s clarify one thing – rather than being my kin, you’ll be part of my crew. You can refer to me as Captain or as you did previously.”
Pondering on the dynamics, Morris inquired, “And how do you plan to stay in touch with us? I’m aware you have a presence in the city-state of Pland, but what I mean is…”
Interrupting him gently, Duncan said, “I understand your concern. If I need to connect with you, I have ways to locate you. Should you ever need to reach out to me urgently, just speak my name or the name of the Vanished in front of a polished mirror. I can perceive through such surfaces. Additionally, flames can amplify my presence, so if you ever find yourself in peril, light a fire and call out to me.”
Hearing this, Morris looked somewhat perturbed. His unwavering faith in the God of Wisdom clashed with the idea of allying with a group some might consider heretical. It felt strange, drawing wisdom from a being of another dimension, almost god-like in nature.
Almost instinctively, Morris gently caressed the vibrant bracelet on his wrist, imbued with protective enchantments.
He silently reassured himself, “The Lord hasn’t witnessed this, He won’t take offense, and He trusts in the righteousness of your choices.”
Upon hearing Duncan’s explanation, Nina’s eyes widened in astonishment, and her face lit up with childlike enthusiasm. “That’s absolutely incredible!”
This burst of joyfulness from Nina caught Duncan off guard. Trying to temper her excitement, he remarked, “Nina, you don’t actually need any extra flames for…”
Before he could finish, Nina, not quite grasping his intent, blurted out, “Wait, why not?”
However, she didn’t wait for Duncan’s response. Almost instantly, she came to her own conclusion, “Ah! I get it, I can…”
Seeing the ambient atmosphere around Nina begin to shimmer and glow, Duncan interrupted her with a note of urgency, “Do not transform here!” He admonished, “Until you have full control over the power the sun fragment bestows upon you, you mustn’t attempt to change into your alternate form, especially not in a confined or populated space!”
Nina’s bubbling enthusiasm waned instantly. She lowered her head, murmuring, “Oh…”
Duncan sighed in relief as he observed the immediate environment returning to its normal state. Nina’s ability to restrain the immense energy of the sun fragment was largely due to Duncan’s unique properties as a “flame usurper.” It was crucial for her safety, and that of others, that she didn’t act impulsively until she fully understood her powers.
As he looked around the room, Duncan said, “In the future, we might be welcoming more members to our crew.” Searching for the right words, he continued, “Today’s dinner can set a precedent for how we integrate new members. I believe this can foster stronger bonds amongst us all.”
Taking in Duncan’s words, Morris found his gaze drifting to the dinner plate in front of him. It felt as though he was beginning to understand the deeper intricacies of this crew. Having already committed himself to this ship and having accepted Duncan’s protection – not to mention having consumed the meal prepared from the ocean offspring’s offering – he realized it was far too late to back out now.
His gaze then shifted to a dove, which seemed to be indulging voraciously in a heap of fries. Morris sighed internally. As a lifelong scholar, he had now unexpectedly embarked on a path towards becoming something of legend. What else could he possibly wish for?
However, just as he was attempting to find solace in this newfound revelation, Miss Alice suddenly rose from her seat, breaking the thoughtful silence. Addressing Duncan, she asked, “Captain, will other crew members be joining apart from myself in the future?”
Duncan glanced at the puppet with a hint of amusement, “Only now it dawns on you? You’re certainly not the sole crew member. And before they depart, you’ll need to instruct them in the ways of our crew, much like how Goathead once instructed you.”
After hearing Duncan’s words, Alice paused and blinked in confusion, taking a moment to fully grasp the situation. Suddenly, a wide grin spread across her face, and she let out an excited giggle reminiscent of a child’s innocent laughter. She began, “Alright! Later on, I’ll…”
However, before she could complete her sentence, a distinct popping sound echoed through the room, arresting Duncan’s attention. To everyone’s astonishment, Alice’s blonde head had detached from her body and rolled to a stop at the center of the dining table. The room fell into a stunned, hushed silence in that instant.
Eventually, it was Shirley’s voice pierced the quiet as she shrieked, “OH MY GOD! Her head just came off! It’s off!”
Pandemonium swiftly engulfed the dining area. Shirley and Nina, both in the throes of panic, scurried about the room in sheer terror. In stark contrast, Dog and Morris made concerted efforts to restore calm, trying to reassure the younger members without succumbing to their own shock.
And so, under rather unexpected and chaotic circumstances, the newest members of the Vanished had their inaugural meeting.
Hahaha.
I looked forward to the moment she lost her head in front of them. XD
Gathering of the Tarot Clu….Vainihed Crew.
Perhaps Duncan should come up with an honorific name they can use to pray to?
I WAS WAITING FOR SOMEONE TO MAKE A REFERENCE TO LOTM
Vanished is pretty good as honorific name to chant in front of a mirror holding a candle.
‘the Vanished hasn’t been cited within the past century.’
cited -> sighted
Cited is when you reference something in a research paper or whatnot, sighted is the act of using sight.
Gotta say, this translation has been, on average, excellent. Hope you don’t mind me pointing out a mistake!
thanks, just changed it
Poor Morris, overthinking it.
Alice honors her status of cursed doll, with pristine timing. MC though, he really isn’t up to his ghostly captain status. He spiraled into just some nine uncle.