The Land of Phaleno: The Princess's Rebirth (Book I)

Chapter Thirteen: "Beneath the Storm: The Secret of the Antique Vase"

The harbor was engulfed in a tempestuous night, the inky sky obscured by tumultuous, roiling clouds. Rain lashed down incessantly, striking the sea with such force that it sent sprays of water into the air. Bolts of lightning cleaved the night, their thunderous claps shaking the very foundations of the docks and surrounding buildings.

The harbor lights flickered dimly against the downpour, their feeble glow struggling to pierce the curtain of rain. Massive waves crashed against the docks, sending sprays of seawater cascading over the moored vessels. The small buildings around the harbor trembled, their roofs creaking under the onslaught of the howling wind.

Amidst the tempest, a fleeting figure was seen dashing across the docks, battling against the gale-force winds and driving rain. Sweat and water mingled on their face as they clutched tightly to ropes and other items that threatened to be swept away.

Meanwhile, Jun stood steadfast on the docks, surrounded by his men who shielded him from the downpour with large umbrellas. In this tense atmosphere, Jun calmly drew on his cigarette, the ember at its tip contrasting sharply with the darkness. A plume of white smoke curled slowly from his lips, swirling in the relentless wind and rain.

Leonardo, the Logistics Officer, stood beside Jun. "Jun," he shouted over the roar of the storm, "it seems the rainy season has arrived earlier than usual this year, by nearly two weeks."

Jun took a deep drag from his cigarette and exhaled slowly. His gaze was fixed on the ships, though his eyes and face were wet from the splashing rain. "Is that so? It's rather early."

Leonardo nodded. "Yes, Jun. We must adjust our plans to ensure all operations run smoothly in the midst of the rainy season."

Jun did not respond, his gaze fixed intently upon the ship. His men, striving mightily to hold a large umbrella steady above him, strained against the relentless rain and wind. Yet, Jun remained unyielding, concealing his discomfort behind a facade of professionalism, as if the tempest outside were merely a backdrop to the performance unfolding before him.

Amidst the tempest that engulfed the harbor, a group of men could be seen hauling a large cart towards the ship - none other than the field workers under Jun's command. Their steps faltered on the slippery dock. Their bodies were drenched, yet they continued their task without a hint of complaint. Their movements were methodical and alert despite the inclement weather.

Aboard the ship, several other workers descended the slick gangplank with deliberate care. They carried heavy wooden crates, maneuvering them cautiously to avoid slipping on the wet planks. Every movement was precise, each step taken with care, especially since the moored vessel was being tossed about violently by the storm and waves.

In the midst of the chaos, Ethan, the harbormaster, bellowed over the roar of the rain and thunder. "Careful now! Don't let anyone slip! Mind those crates!" he commanded, his hand waving emphatically to emphasize his order amid the tempest.

With coordinated movements, they successfully lowered the large crate from the slippery gangplank, striving to avoid any mishaps in the inclement weather. Each step they took was deliberate, their hands firmly gripping the ropes and handles of the crate as they worked to maintain their hold. The gale force winds whipped at their faces, blurring their vision with rain.

Upon reaching the dock, the workers lifted the heavy crate. Employing a careful lifting technique, they communicated with hand signals and shouted instructions over the howling wind. The weighty crate seemed almost fused to the waiting cart.

Ethan stood in the heart of the storm, unmindful of the torrential rain that drenched his clothing and face. "Slowly!" he bellowed. "You must balance it carefully! Take your time and ensure the crate is steady!"