Chapter 234: Bewitchment
Translator: Henyee I ranstations Editor: Henyee I ranslations
As Liao Ning observed Sami’s excited smile, a shiver ran down her spine. When someone disguised themselves, it became nearly impossible to distinguish between a human and a demon.
“No, you cannot do this,” Liao Ning asserted, aware of her limited abilities and uncertain of the impact she could have, yet unable to remain silent.
“Of course I can. This is what the king has promised me,” Sami retorted, arching an indifferent eyebrow. “Or perhaps, if you are willing to surrender the formula for the loyalty potion’s antidote, I may consider sparing those repugnant merfolk.”
“Never!” Liao Ning clenched her teeth tightly.
Fortunately, Li Xian had taken precautions. Only a select few core members knew the intricacies of the antidote’s formulation. Others were engaged in peripheral tasks. If Sami were to obtain the formula, the merfolk would likely suffer once again.
As the standoff between the two persisted, the king discreetly gestured to Loya.
“We have arranged a grand banquet in your honor, esteemed Miss Liao,” Loya stepped forward and bowed to Liao Ning.
Liao Ning regarded her with disdain. The current Loya bore little resemblance to Zhu Fei, but the underlying hypocrisy in her gaze remained unchanged.
Observing Liao Ning’s lack of response, Loya maintained a smile on her face, although her eyes no longer held any genuine warmth. “Your nephew has been eagerly awaiting your arrival for quite some time. It is natural for a child to grow restless. It would be best not to keep him waiting any longer.” “Where is Liao Nai?” Liao Ning inquired anxiously.
The thought of the little one enduring captivity within the expansive castle weighed heavily on her.
Taking note of her apprehensive expression, the king nodded in satisfaction.
“You are our esteemed guest, and we are also your family. Let us enter first.”
Liao Ning glanced at Sami once more before reluctantly following the king and the others into the castle.
The empire’s castle was adorned with precious treasures, and even the carpets boasted an array of embedded gemstones in vibrant hues.
However, Liao Ning’s focus wasn’t on the grandeur surrounding her. Spotting Liao Nai at the end of the corridor, she swiftly made her way over.
“Auntie!” Liao Nai managed to break free from the waiter’s grasp and rushed into Liao Ning’s arms.
Liao Ning held him tightly, seeking solace in his warmth. It provided her with a small measure of reassurance.
“Liao Nai, I’m sorry. I have brought trouble upon you. Are you okay?”
She gently stroked his hair, trying to comfort him. The little one did his best to bury his tear-streaked face in her shoulder.
Looking up, Liao Nai, with teary eyes, replied, “Auntie, you didn’t bring trouble. We are family, and I am fine.”
Witnessing his mature and heartrending response, Liao Ning’s emotions overwhelmed her. She smiled gently and lifted the young boy up.
‘Miss Liao, after such a long journey, I imagine you must be exhausted. Shall we discuss matters over a meal?” the king interjected, maintaining his smile.
However, Liao Ning could discern the shrewdness lurking in his eyes, as well as the unfriendly gaze of Loya.
“Tell me, why have you brought me and my nephew here?” Her tone was less than pleasant. Just as Loya was about to interject a cautionary reminder, the king paid no heed to Liao Ning’s demeanor.
“You are the esteemed ancient gourmet. I have perused all your works. Your culinary expertise is unparalleled,” the king gestured for Liao Ning to follow him.
“Ancient delicacies possess the power to heal mental afflictions. With the existence of the antidote, I must acknowledge your greatness. However, if you were to serve the empire, I can assure you a life of opulence. This includes your nephew’s education within the empire, and I would even extend the offer for you to become a member of the royal family.”
The king’s words held a beguiling allure, but Loya glared fiercely at Liao Ning’s retreating figure. She knew that once Liao Ning agreed, there would be no place for her within the empire.
“Father, I fear you are unaware. The Liao family possesses considerable assets in interstellar space. Miss Liao and her nephew are the sole heirs,” Loya interjected.
Startled by Loya’s remark, the king pivoted towards her, shooting an intense glare. He then redirected his attention to Liao Ning and continued, “Nevertheless, a merchant’s wealth cannot rival that of the empire. The Liao family may be a prominent business entity within the interstellar space alliance, but if Miss Liao is willing, they can ascend to nobility within the empire as well..”
