Marvel: The other side of the double-passing door is Devouring the Stars

Chapter 365 Serious Criminal Cases

Just then, the Star-Winged Roc let out a soft cry, much softer than before, more like a greeting. It slowly lowered its head, its eyes fixed intently on Rowan, as if carefully observing something.

“I think it’s particularly interested in you,” Silvermoon said with a smile, “perhaps because you come from a distant Earth and possess an aura it has never seen before.”

Luo Wen mustered his courage and slowly took a few steps closer to the Star-Winged Roc. The divine beast showed no intention of avoiding him; instead, it observed him even more intently. When Luo Wen was about ten meters away, the Star-Winged Roc suddenly nodded slightly, as if in greeting.

“This is amazing,” Rowan said excitedly. “It seems to really be communicating with me.”

“The Starwing Roc possesses great intelligence; it can sense a person's heart,” Silvermoon said. “Gaining its approval is extremely rare. In the history of our Silverblue Empire, only those of truly noble character have earned the Starwing Roc's favor.”

Luo Wen bowed deeply to the Star-Winged Roc, expressing his respect for this guardian beast. Upon seeing this, the Star-Winged Roc let out another soft cry, its voice filled with satisfaction and approval.

By this time, the sun had fully risen, and golden sunlight bathed the entire mountaintop. Under this warm sunlight, the feathers of the Star-Winged Roc shone even more brilliantly, as if it were draped in a cloak woven from starlight. It slowly spread its wings, preparing to take flight.

"It's leaving," Silver Moon said with some reluctance. "Encountering the Starwing Roc was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

Before taking off, the Star-Winged Roc glanced one last time at Rowan and Silver Moon, its eyes seeming to say, "May you be happy." Then, it gently flapped its wings and gracefully rose into the air. Bathed in sunlight, its silhouette resembled a moving star, soaring higher and higher until it finally disappeared into the azure sky.

"Goodbye, Starwing Divine Roc," Silver Moon said softly, her eyes filled with reluctance.

Rowan waved to the sky, his heart filled with gratitude and awe. This encounter with the legendary divine beast had given him a deeper understanding of the Silver Blue Empire's culture and made him appreciate the vastness and profundity of this civilization.

"Encountering the Starwing Roc here was an unforgettable experience for me," Rowan remarked. "It taught me what true power and majesty are."

“In the culture of our Silverblue Empire, the Starwing Roc represents protection, wisdom, and hope,” Silvermoon said. “Its appearance usually foreshadows a bright future. I think its appearance before us today must have special significance.”

The two lingered on the mountaintop for a while longer, continuing to admire the beautiful scenery after sunrise. By this time, the sea of ​​clouds had gradually dispersed, and the entire landscape of Jianxin Star was laid out before them. The distant city began to awaken, with wisps of smoke rising from its chimneys; everything appeared so peaceful and serene.

“Looking down from here, the whole world seems so beautiful,” Rowan said. “No strife, no worries, only pure beauty.”

“That’s the charm of Sunrise Peak,” Silver Moon replied. “Standing here, one’s mind becomes exceptionally peaceful. Many swordsmen cultivate their mental state here, because it’s the easiest place to grasp the true essence of the sword.”

"What is the true essence of swordsmanship?" Rowan asked curiously.

Silvermoon pondered for a moment, then said, "I believe the true essence of swordsmanship lies not only in the refinement of technique, but more importantly, in the elevation of one's state of mind. A true swordsman doesn't use the sword to conquer enemies, but to protect everything they cherish. Like the Star-Winged Roc, possessing immense power, yet using it only for defense and protection."

These words deeply inspired Rowan. He recalled his cultivation experiences on Earth and the various sword techniques he had learned after arriving in the Silverblue Empire. Perhaps Silvermoon was right; true strength lies not in conquest, but in protection.

“You make a good point,” Rowan nodded. “I think that’s why the Sword Saint acknowledged me. In our initial encounter, I wasn’t thinking about defeating him, but rather about proving the character and will of Earth’s martial artists.”

“Indeed, it was this mindset that earned you the Sword Saint's approval,” Silver Moon agreed, “and also the favor of the Starwing Roc. Truly noble character cannot be faked; it flows naturally and is perceived by those with wisdom.”

As the sun rose higher, the temperature on the mountaintop began to warm up. The morning chill gradually dissipated, replaced by warm and comfortable sunshine. The two decided to enjoy the breakfast prepared by Silver Moon on the mountaintop.

Silvermoon took out some exquisite food from her backpack, including the Silverblue Empire's unique Morning Light Cookies, wildflower honey tea, and some fresh fruit. Although the food was simple, it tasted especially delicious in this environment.

“Having breakfast on Sunrise Peak is such a wonderful experience,” Rowan said, savoring a Morning Light biscuit. “These biscuits have a very special flavor; they have a delicate, refreshing taste.”

“Morning Light Cookies are made from Morning Light Grass, a specialty of Sunrise Peak,” Silver Moon explained. “Morning Light Grass only grows at high altitudes and must be harvested at sunrise, making it very precious. It is said that eating Morning Light Cookies can enhance one's spiritual power and is very helpful for cultivation.”

“No wonder I feel so refreshed,” Rowan said. “Every food in the Silverblue Empire has special effects; it’s truly amazing.”

The two enjoyed breakfast while continuing their conversation on various topics. They discussed their spiritual cultivation experiences and shared their insights into life, creating a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. In this environment, all worries were left behind, leaving only pure joy and contentment.

“Rowan,” Silvermoon suddenly said, “I have an idea.”

"What are your thoughts?" Rowan asked curiously.

“We encountered the Starwing Roc today, which is a very auspicious sign,” Silvermoon said. “I think perhaps we can make a wish here, praying that the Starwing Roc will bless our friendship to last forever.”

“That’s a great idea,” Rowan agreed. “Let’s make a wish together.”

The two stood up, facing the direction where the Starwing Roc had disappeared, clasped their hands together, closed their eyes, and began to make wishes. Although they didn't say what they wished for, the expressions on their faces showed that these wishes were very important to them.

After making their wishes, the two sat down again, continuing to enjoy the tranquility of the mountaintop. The world below was already fully awake, and in the distance, people could be seen beginning their busy day. But atop this high mountain, time seemed to stand still, and everything appeared so peaceful.

“I wish time could stand still at this moment,” Silver Moon whispered. “Being here with you, looking at this beautiful scenery, feels truly blissful.”

“I feel the same way,” Rowan replied sincerely. “My experience in the Silverblue Empire, especially the time I spent with you, has brought me unprecedented joy.”

Their eyes met again, and in that instant, it felt as if an electric current flowed through the air. The sun continued to rise, and the scenery on Sunrise Peak constantly changed. The clouds and mist completely dissipated, revealing the entire panorama of Swordheart Star. Distant mountain ranges stretched endlessly, lakes shimmered like mirrors, and cities appeared orderly under the sunlight. All of this conveyed the beauty and harmony of the Silver Blue Empire.

“It’s time to go down the mountain,” Silvermoon said, glancing at the time. “We still have a lot to do.”

“Okay,” Rowan nodded, but felt a little reluctant to leave. “This trip to Sunrise Peak was truly perfect.”

The two packed their things and began their descent. The descent was easier than the ascent, but they walked slowly, seemingly wanting to prolong this beautiful moment. Along the way, they continued to talk about the Star-Winged Roc they had just seen, and the various legends of the Silver Blue Empire.

“Did you know,” Silvermoon said, “that in the legends of our Silverblue Empire, the Starwing Roc possesses a special ability: it can see into people's hearts and foresee their future destinies. Its friendliness towards you today may foreshadow a bright future for you in the Silverblue Empire.”

“If that’s the case, then I’m incredibly lucky,” Rowan laughed. “However, whatever the future holds, today’s experience has already made me very satisfied.”

When the two reached the halfway point of the mountain, Rowan suddenly stopped. "Silver Moon, I want to tell you something."

Silver Moon stopped and turned to look at him. "What did you say?"

"I'm deeply moved by your care and help during this time," Rowan said earnestly. "It's not just about taking me to eat delicious food and visit scenic spots; more importantly, you've made me feel the kindness and warmth of the people of the Silver Blue Empire. Especially today, being able to watch the sunrise with you and encounter the Star-Winged Roc will become my most precious memories."

A touched expression appeared on Yin Yue's face. "I'm so happy to be your friend. Your presence has made my life more wonderful, and I've learned so much from you."

“I hope our friendship will last forever,” Rowan said sincerely. “Wherever I go, I will never forget the wonderful time I spent in the Silver Blue Empire.”

“Me too,” Silvermoon nodded, “I’ll never forget.”

The two continued down the mountain, their hearts filled with a warm feeling.

As night fell, Silver Moon Lake shimmered under the moonlight, and the entire Sword Heart Star was immersed in the tranquil and peaceful night. Luo Wen had just finished dinner and was in his room organizing the footage he had taken at Sunrise Peak that day, reminiscing about the magical experience of encountering the Star-Winged Roc.

The room was illuminated by the unique night-shining pearls of the Silver Blue Empire, emitting a soft glow. Rowan meticulously recorded his experiences of the day, intending to share these precious observations with his friends upon returning to Earth. He had just written about the moment the Starwing Roc nodded to him when he suddenly heard hurried footsteps outside.

At first, Rowan didn't pay much attention, assuming they were just passersby. But the footsteps grew closer and closer, clearly heading towards Silvermoon's house. What was even more unsettling was that the footsteps were perfectly synchronized, indicating they weren't ordinary pedestrians, but rather a well-trained group.

Rowan put down his notebook and walked to the window to look outside. He saw a squad of guards in silver-blue uniforms approaching the Silvermoon residence, carrying energy weapons and with serious expressions. The captain of the guard was a middle-aged man, burly and with a stern face, wearing an insignia signifying a high-ranking officer.

"What's going on?" A sense of foreboding welled up in Rowan's heart.

Just then, there was a sudden, urgent, and heavy knocking on the door.

"Open the door! Imperial Guard on official business!"

Rowan's heart raced, but he tried to remain calm and quickly walked to the door. "Is there anything I can help you with?"

"Open the door immediately! We need to take Rowan and Miss Silvermoon away for investigation!" The captain of the guards' voice came through the door, his tone stern and leaving no room for argument.

Upon hearing this, countless questions flashed through Luo Wen's mind. Why were the guards arresting them? Had they done something illegal? Today's trip to Sunrise Peak had been perfectly normal, with nothing out of the ordinary.

At that moment, Silver Moon also came out of her room, her face showing the same confusion and worry. "Rowan, what happened?"

“I don’t know either,” Rowan shook his head. “The guards said they’d take us for questioning.”

Yinyue's parents were also startled by the noise outside and hurriedly came out of their bedroom. Yinyue's father had a solemn expression. As a high-ranking official of the Silver Blue Empire, he knew that the guards would not come to arrest people without reason.

“I’ll go open the door,” Silvermoon’s father said. “Let’s see what they want.”

The door opened, and the captain of the guard strode in, followed by more than a dozen fully armed guards. They quickly surrounded the living room, bringing everyone under their control.

“I am Karl, the captain of the third squad of the Imperial Guard,” the captain said solemnly. “I am under orders to take Rowan and Miss Silvermoon away to assist us in investigating a serious crime.”

"What crime?" Silver Moon's father demanded. "My daughter and her friends are law-abiding citizens; they couldn't possibly have committed any crime."

Captain Karl gave him a cold look, then took out a formal arrest warrant from his pocket. "According to reliable intelligence, this morning, Rowan and Miss Silvermoon made contact with the Imperial Guardian Beast, the Starwing Roc, at Sunrise Peak. Just a few hours ago, we discovered that the Starwing Roc was exhibiting severe symptoms of poisoning and is currently in critical condition."

"What?!" Silver Moon exclaimed in shock, "The Starwing Roc has been poisoned? How is this possible?"

"Current evidence indicates that only the two of you had close contact with the Starwing Roc today," Captain Karl continued, "and multiple witnesses have corroborated this. Therefore, you are suspected of harming the Imperial Guardian Beast and must immediately cooperate with our investigation."

(End of this chapter)