Chapter 296: You’re a Sea Demon
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
The turmoil within the transit space station was swiftly brought under control by the Interstellar Alliance’s military forces. Simultaneously, Su MO received top-level directives: expedite the return of Liao Ning to the empire while keeping it discreet. They were explicitly prohibited from continuing their live- streaming activities.
Su Mo’s keen instincts allowed him to discern a significant shift in the situation. Initially, the government had intended to herald Liao Ning’s return with great fanfare, but the sudden change in orders suggested something nefarious. Coupled with the recent station unrest, it was apparent that Liao Ning had become the target of individuals with hidden agendas, considering her prominent role within the Interstellar Alliance.
Upon receiving Su Mo’s message, Zhou Ling’s countenance instantly grew grave. His initial plan had been to rendezvous with Su MO at the next space station, but it seemed circumstances had altered that course of action.
Consequently, he promptly altered the airship’s landing coordinates. “We’ll be arriving at Planet Deep Sea shortly. Be prepared.”
“Deep-sea Planet?” Liao Ning inquired, her confusion apparent. “Aren’t we supposed to meet up with Su MO?”
True to its name, Deep-sea Planet was primarily an aquatic world, with less than a fifth of its surface comprised of land. Energy resources were scarce, and it hardly seemed suitable for restocking supplies.
Zhou Ling didn’t respond immediately, but Liao Ning noticed the unease in his demeanor and expressed her concern. “Is this because of me? Is someone from the military seeking my arrest?”
When Zhou Ling disclosed their destination as Deep-sea Planet, Zhou Ye speculated that the military might have received different orders. He elucidated, “Though the Interstellar Alliance may seem unified, there are underlying factions within its upper echelons. It’s possible that there’s a divergence of opinions regarding your situation. Staying low-profile for now might be in our best interest.”
Zhou Ling further explained, “Deep-sea Planet does offer energy resources, but we might have to engage in trade with the indigenous sea demons or giant crocodiles. During that time, it’s imperative that you conceal your identity and regard us as ordinary empire citizens fleeing the chaos.”
“Sea Demon?” Liao Ning’s tension escalated upon hearing that term.
According to system notifications, her mother had been a Sea Demon with the ability to transform into one. Perhaps, on Deep-sea Planet, she could uncover vital clues about her past.
However, when the notion of concealing her identity crossed Liao Ning’s mind, it brought on a throbbing headache. She couldn’t help but wonder what these sea demons actually looked like. What if, in her original form, her imperfections were glaringly obvious to anyone who saw her?
The airship touched down on a diminutive island, immediately encircled by a motley assortment of creatures.
Davies’s eyes widened in disbelief. “Oh my goodness,” he exclaimed, “What on
Earth are these? They don’t resemble humans like me at all.”
Liao Ning peered out of the window. “These ‘monsters’ have human bodies but the heads of beasts,” she observed as they swarmed around the airship.
Zhou Ye provided some insight, saying, “That one is a white-finned manatee, the individual with the snake-like head is a sand snake beast, and the lizard-like figure is a horned lizard beast… They’re all small creatures native to this island. Their abilities are modest, and while they can’t fully mimic humans, they pose no threat.”
As Liao Ning gazed at the “monsters” outside, her earlier apprehensions began to dissipate. Perhaps the sea demons resembled these creatures, and the risk of her true identity being exposed seemed increasingly unlikely.
Just as she started to relax, a striking white-haired man materialized before the airship.
His upper body was bare, and his lower half appeared to be covered by blue tights fashioned from fish scales. Flowing white hair framed his striking blue eyes…
At the sight of him, both Zhou Ling and Zhou Ye furrowed their brows. Davies turned to Liao Ning with astonishment. “Could this be your long-lost brother?”
“It’s not unusual for people to resemble each other,” Liao Ning attempted to explain, “Just like your Multi-Feather Butterfly is probably green like you, right?”
The man outside the airship emitted a sonorous sound wave. “Who are you? I am the leader of the sea demons in this region. Descend immediately!” Davies blurted out, “You’re a sea demon?”
“Sea demon? You’re the sea demon here. Your whole family is made up of sea demons!” Liao Nai promptly transformed into a wolf cub and positioned herself in front of Liao Ning. “She’s my Auntie. The Liao family can transform into wolves. Is your feeble brain malfunctioning as well?”
Davies glanced at the robust wolf cub and spoke somewhat awkwardly, “You have a point there. If she’s your Auntie, she can’t be a sea demon. But Miss Liao being a mutated white wolf? She’s remarkably striking.”
Liao Ning could only manage a wry chuckle. The system was undeniably crafty.. It was clear that if she were to stand among the sea demons, something would undoubtedly seem amiss, wouldn’t it?