NOVEL NEXT Chapter 303 - 303: South Mountain Island
Chapter 303: South Mountain Island
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
When Liao Ning laid eyes on the seahorse, an impending headache began to take hold. The seahorse was unmistakably a seahorse, after all, so why should it be such an elusive target in the vast sea? Unless Quidy suffered from a severe case of nearsightedness, spotting one shouldn’t pose much of a challenge.
Liao Ning pressed her fingers to her temples and inquired, “Is there no alternative? Perhaps a submarine, for instance?”
Mika, looking puzzled, retorted, “Submarine? What’s that supposed to be? Are there exotic creatures lurking in the depths of the Deep-sea Planet that I’m unaware of? Are they affiliated with the Interstellar Alliance?”
It was at that moment that Liao Ning realized submarines didn’t exist in this world.
With a sigh, she accepted her fate and remarked, “Never mind. I suppose swimming over to the fire seahorse is still the best option. All I need is a name, right? Otherwise, gaining access to the island could prove to be quite the challenge.”
“Little Patriarch, do you have knowledge of crafting ancient delicacies?” Mika asked, his anticipation evident. “I’ve heard that many streamers from the Interstellar Alliance prepare ancient delicacies as a remedy for stress. Have you witnessed any of their streams? Are you skilled in crafting such dishes?”
A mischievous smile played on Liao Ning’s lips. Not only did she possess the knowledge, but she might even host her own livestream on Deep-sea Planet!
Observing her somewhat unusual expression, Mika began to doubt her capabilities. Swiftly, he added, “Of course, you’re the Little Patriarch, so it’s perfectly reasonable if you’re unfamiliar with the art of preparing ancient delicacies. Please don’t take it to heart. Nevertheless, I fear that infiltrating South Mountain Island won’t be a simple task with this plan.”
Zhou Ling interjected, “Actually, she does, and she’s an expert at it. All we need to do is tie our infiltration into South Mountain Island to the preparation of ancient delicacies.”
“Really? That’s fantastic!” Mika’s excitement bubbled up. “The inhabitants of Deep-sea Planet primarily consume raw seafood due to the toxicity of seawater, resulting in nearly everyone experiencing symptoms of poisoning. Consequently, there’s a constant demand for antidotal potions, but they’re both scarce and costly on Deep-sea Planet. Right now, Quidy is recruiting refugees skilled in crafting ancient delicacies, and many refugees from Planet Dynasty have already migrated to Nanshan Island. ”
A wry smile tugged at the corners of Liao Ning’s mouth once again. Who would have thought that the art of ancient delicacies would transcend boundaries? Regardless of whether it was the Interstellar Alliance or the Empire Planet, Liao Ning marveled at how the shortage of ancient delicacy experts seemed to follow her, even on Deep-sea Planet. Was this some sort of special boon bestowed upon her by the system?
Liao Ning and Zhou Ling exchanged knowing glances. Suddenly, a sense of optimism washed over them. It seemed that their mission might proceed smoothly, and the initial step of infiltrating the enemy stronghold wouldn’t pose a significant challenge.
After Mika provided a few more instructions, they mounted the fire seahorse and set course for Nanshan Island. Upon reaching the sea’s surface, Liao Ning was taken aback by the sight of numerous fire seahorses, a common mode of transportation between the islands of Deep-sea Planet. Among them, she noticed many refugees from Planet Dynasty.
Although the Planet Empire had achieved relative stability, there were still numerous nobles who sought refuge on neighboring planets, unwilling to submit to the rebel army’s rule, bringing their wealth with them.
The fire seahorse proved remarkably swift, and it didn’t take long for them to reach Nanshan Island. However, their arrival was met with an immediate halt.
“Who are you, and why have you come to South Mountain Island?” The guard scrutinized them with an unfriendly demeanor.
With a calm tone, Liao Ning responded, “Greetings, my wife and I have escaped from Planet Dynasty. We’ve run out of resources and are seeking refuge on
Deep-sea Planet. ”
Zhou Ling deftly presented a small gem, and only then did the guard’s expression soften into a smile.
Having transformed into unassuming individuals, Liao Ning and Zhou Ling managed to avoid raising suspicion.
“The situation is quite delicate at the moment, but I’ll share a secret with you,” the guard whispered, drawing closer. “If you happen to possess knowledge of crafting ancient delicacies, you should head to the central castle. Our lord is currently recruiting individuals from the Empire who are skilled in the art of ancient delicacies.”
With heartfelt thanks, Zhou Ling guided Liao Ning toward the central castle. As they approached, they saw a growing crowd of people who all bore the appearance of refugees, eagerly awaiting opportunities.
“Are there any other culinary experts among us? If we can pass the test, the Sea Demons promise us accommodation, meals, and even a salary! Is there anyone else interested in giving it a shot?”
Despite the favorable terms, it appeared that most escapees from Planet Empire were well-off individuals. The prospect of preparing ancient delicacies didn’t seem to entice many. After all, it was considered a modest and labor-intensive endeavor that didn’t quite align with the status of the wealthy.
Just as the guard was about to close the door, Liao Ning exclaimed, “I’ll give it a try. I’ve dabbled in preparing ancient delicacies while watching livestreams at home!”
“You have experience?” The guard scrutinized Liao Ning and Zhou Ling, inquiring, “Are you both certain you can handle it? Take a moment to think it
over carefully..”