The same sight welcomed them at the harbor area of Coral Archipelago—a bustling chaos. After parting ways with the rest of the crew, Charles and Lily made their way to their usual place of lodging, the Bat Tavern.

Even though Charles had accumulated enough money to buy a house in the harbor district, he always felt that he wouldn't be staying in this Subterranean Sea for long. As such, squandering money on something permanent—like a house—was not necessary in his eyes.

Upon stepping into the tavern, Charles immediately noticed something amiss. The usual scruffy fellow behind the reception desk was gone. He had been replaced by a middle-aged man whose appearance seemed entirely out of place with the surroundings. 

Wearing a neatly pressed white shirt, complemented...