Chapter 254: Monster Eye Soup

Only then did a sharp alarm sound from the front of the airship.

"All passengers, please return to your cabins immediately! Repeat, all passengers, please return to your cabins immediately!"

A tense male voice echoed across the entire deck through the airship's broadcast system:

"A large number of harpies have been detected approaching. This is not a drill! All passengers must evacuate the deck area immediately!"

The deck fell into chaos. The passengers, who had been leisurely enjoying the scenery, were jolted awake and began looking around in a panic.

When they saw the shadows rapidly approaching from the distance, fear spread instantly.

"My god! There are at least dozens of them!" a middle-aged merchant shouted in terror, dropping his binoculars to the ground.

"Run! These damn beasts in heat will drain any man dry!"

Another passenger, clearly knowledgeable about harpies, shouted a warning and dragged his friend toward the cabin.

In an instant, the deck was in turmoil. Men scrambled to escape; some even fell in the panic and were trampled by those behind them.

The airship crew tried to maintain order but were quickly overwhelmed by the panicked crowd.

"Defense team! Assemble immediately!"

The airship's security chief—a tall, middle-aged man—shouted, waving his hand to signal the uniformed guards to gather.

Over a dozen guards quickly assembled from various locations, each holding an energy spear.

This specialized weapon could fire charged energy beams, designed specifically to repel flying creatures like harpies.

But judging by their pale faces and trembling fingers, they lacked confidence in the face of such a large number of harpies.

"Captain, the number... there are at least forty!"

A young guard reported nervously, his voice trembling: "With our equipment, we can only handle a dozen at most!"

"There are two official wizards on the airship!"

The security chief said loudly, a glimmer of hope flashing in his eyes:

"Send someone to find them immediately! Only wizards can handle an attack of this scale!"

"Execute immediately!"

An older guard responded at once, turning to the others: "Split up and find those two wizards! Move!"

The guards dispersed quickly, searching for the two wizards throughout the airship.

Meanwhile, the harpies had approached to within a hundred meters of the airship. Their aggressive, shrill shrieks pierced the sky, making one's skin crawl.

The ones in the lead had already extended their sharp talons, their eyes glowing with a scarlet light, ready to tear apart any prey in their path.

"Prepare emergency defense measures! All crew members capable of using energy weapons, enter combat status immediately!"

Several energy cannons on the airship began adjusting their angles, aiming at the rapidly approaching flock of harpies.

However, everyone knew that these weapons would likely be of little use against such a large number of targets.

"They're going to crash into us!" someone screamed, their voice filled with despair.

Just as the harpies were less than fifty meters from the airship, the situation on the field changed abruptly.

A peculiar melody suddenly rang out, as if some ancient instrument were being gently plucked in the void.

The sound was neither high-pitched nor sharp, yet it permeated the entire space in an incomprehensible way.

It seemed to come from all directions, yet also from a single point, spreading through the air in a way that defied conventional sound wave propagation.

Countless translucent chains suddenly appeared in the void, spreading out like ripples in water and rapidly extending toward the approaching harpies.

These chains looked as light as gauze, yet they contained incredible power.

With lightning speed, they wrapped around the bodies of the harpies, firmly binding the violent creatures in mid-air.

No matter how they struggled, they could not break free from this strange restraint.

"This is... the wizards have already made their move?"

An experienced old guard breathed a huge sigh of relief upon seeing this.

And as the first batch of harpies was bound, a sharp, slight vibration suddenly came from the air, like someone scratching glass with their fingernails.

This faint vibration spread rapidly through the air, forming a special echo effect.

Each echo was stronger and more penetrating than the last, creating an unsettling geometric growth effect.

The bound harpies let out sharp screams, their voices filled with pain and despair.

Their bodies trembled continuously under the impact of the invisible sound waves, feathers fell like rain, and some even began to bleed from their mouths and noses.

Even more bizarrely, while these sound waves were powerful enough to destroy the internal organs of these extraordinary creatures, they were precisely controlled to stun rather than kill.

Each sound wave vibration perfectly avoided vital points, yet was sufficient to completely strip the targets of their combat ability.

The entire process lasted less than half a minute, and the previously aggressive flock of harpies was almost completely wiped out, falling from the sky like kites with broken strings.

But strangely, although they had lost the ability to act, they all maintained faint vital signs, merely falling into a state of unconsciousness.

"Th-this... what kind of spell is this? Why didn't we sense it at all?"

The young guard asked, stuttering, his eyes full of confusion.

"Of course you couldn't feel it, and they didn't want us to feel it either." The old guard's voice trembled.

In a small corner at the stern of the ship, Luo En and Lei Lei Nuozi stood side by side, looking composed.

Lei Lei Nuozi's gaze was filled with astonishment as he looked at the young wizard beside him: "Wizard Ralph, your 'Sonic Oscillation' is breathtaking."

A faint smile appeared on the corner of Luo En's mouth:

"Wizard Lei Lei Nuozi is too kind. Your binding spell was the one that was perfectly timed. It was because of your precise control that I was able to apply the sonic impact so accurately."

The superficial humility could not hide the shock in Lei Lei Nuozi's heart.

As a Morning Star-level wizard who had been promoted many years ago, he was well-versed in various applications of spells.

But the "Sonic Oscillation" Luo En had just displayed was beyond his realm of cognition.

That was not merely a common sonic shockwave, but an application of a uniquely exquisite "echo effect."

By creating resonance at a specific frequency within the target's body, it achieved a geometric increase in power with minimal magic expenditure.

This level of fine energy conversion efficiency was rare even among veteran Morning Star-level wizards.

He imperceptibly adjusted his positioning and attitude.

Subconsciously, he had still viewed Luo En as a "junior" who needed guidance.

But now it seemed that this young wizard's attainments in certain fields were likely no less than his own.

Just as Lei Lei Nuozi was pondering, Luo En had already taken a small crystal bottle from his space bag.

This bottle was octagonal, crystal clear, and engraved with a complex network of runes inside, shimmering with brilliant colors in the sunlight.

"The bloodline essence of harpies is quite precious."

A glimmer of interest flashed in Luo En's eyes:

"Especially these individuals in heat; the energy activity in their bodies is nearly double the usual, which is perfect for one of my research projects."

He looked up at Lei Lei Nuozi: "I wonder if Wizard Lei Lei Nuozi also needs to collect some samples?"

Lei Lei Nuozi shook his head gently, a smile appearing on his face:

"I have no interest in harpies; you can have them all."

"Then I shall accept your offer." Luo En nodded in thanks and immediately activated the crystal bottle.

The runes on the top of the bottle began to glow, releasing a deep blue energy fluctuation.

This energy, like fine silk threads, extended toward the fallen harpies, precisely connecting to specific acupoints on each unconscious creature.

As the connection was established, a brilliant, colorful liquid began to be extracted from the harpies' bodies, flowing along the energy threads toward the crystal bottle.

This liquid looked exceptionally precious, presenting a rainbow-like luster, flowing like mercury at times and swirling like smoke at others.

Lei Lei Nuozi watched Luo En's alchemical apparatus with interest and was about to say something when he was interrupted by the arrival of the airship captain and a team of guards.

"Respected Wizard Lords."

The captain bowed deeply, his voice filled with gratitude:

"Thank you for your timely assistance! If you hadn't brought the situation under control so quickly, the consequences would have been unimaginable."

"It was just a small effort." Luo En responded calmly, his tone neither seeking credit nor being overly humble.

"The Airship Guild has regulations; wizards who successfully protect the safety of an airship are entitled to additional rewards."

The captain said eagerly: "I wonder what the two Wizard Lords require? We will certainly do our best to satisfy you."

Lei Lei Nuozi and Luo En exchanged a glance, and then Lei Lei Nuozi shook his head gently:

"No need, we were just fulfilling our duties. However..."

He turned to Luo En: "These harpy samples are helpful for your research, aren't they?"

Luo En nodded:

"Indeed. If possible, please arrange for personnel to move these unconscious harpies to a designated location; I need to extract further research materials."

"Of course!"

The captain agreed immediately and began arranging for the guards to carry out the task: "It is our honor!"

The crystal bottle had completed the initial extraction of bloodline essence, and about half a bottle of brilliant, colorful liquid had accumulated inside, shimmering with a subtle luster, the energy fluctuations stable and pure.

Luo En carefully put the crystal bottle into his space bag, a glimmer of satisfaction flashing in his eyes.

This essence was enough for his subsequent experiments, especially for the further modulation of Dai'er's bloodline.

Based on preliminary judgment, the harpy's genetic origin was the ancient Sea Sea Siren.

Perhaps it could produce some unexpected effects after merging with Dai'er's sea Sea Sea Siren bloodline.

The rest of the voyage was calm.

Through the porthole, Luo En could see the outline of the Glass Archipelago becoming clearer, with emerald vegetation covering the blue-gray rocks.

Under the sunlight, it presented a rainbow-like halo, truly living up to the name "Glass."

The airship slowly lowered its altitude, passing through a few wisps of thin clouds, and headed toward the towering mooring tower in the center of the main island.

As the distance closed, the scenery on the island became clearer.

The main island was crescent-shaped, with a bustling town in the center. The buildings were mostly blue and white, blending in with the azure sea and sky.

People came and went on the streets, including human merchants, mermen, and other aquatic races.

Ships of various sizes were moored at the port, including traditional wooden sailing ships and airships driven by special energy.

The "Dawn Walker" finally docked steadily on the platform at the top of the mooring tower.

Because they were almost at the Central Lands, the airship would replenish its fuel here and leave early tomorrow morning.

The gangway was lowered, and passengers began to disembark in an orderly fashion.

"Wizard Ralph." Lei Lei Nuozi stopped Luo En at the gangway:

"Is this your first time in the Glass Archipelago? Interested in having dinner together? I know a very famous monster cuisine restaurant on the island; their 'Monster Eye Soup' is renowned throughout the Endless Sea region."

Luo En thought for a moment and nodded in agreement:

"It would be an honor. I do want to learn more about the situation in the Central Lands, and Wizard Lei Lei Nuozi is undoubtedly one of the best guides."

"Excellent!" Lei Lei Nuozi smiled:

"Shall we meet at the Main Island Lighthouse Square at six in the evening?"

After agreeing, the two went their separate ways. Luo En returned to his cabin and gave brief instructions to Lady Lady Ailan and Dai'er regarding their short stay on the island.

Afterward, he took some necessary items and left the airship, stepping onto the land of the Glass Archipelago.

The air on Glass Island was more humid than on the airship, carrying a rich scent of sea salt and a hint of tropical fruit fragrance.

The sunlight was warm but not blinding, and the sea breeze brushed gently against his face, making him feel refreshed.

Residents on the island would bow and salute when they saw the wizard emblem, and some would even proactively offer guide services or recommend local specialties.

At this time, the setting sun was sinking, dyeing the entire sea surface golden-red. The lighthouse had already lit up with a warm yellow glow, illuminating the pedestrians coming and going in the square.

Lei Lei Nuozi was already waiting there, having changed into a deep blue casual robe, looking more relaxed and casual than he had on the airship.

"You're just in time!" Lei Lei Nuozi smiled and welcomed him:

"The restaurant I booked is not far away; it's a five-minute walk from here."

The two walked along a path paved with colorful pebbles. On both sides of the road were various uniquely styled shops, some selling coral ornaments, some providing special spices, and others specializing in purchasing deep-sea materials.

Every shop exuded a rich local character, attracting passing tourists and merchants.

"This is it, 'Deep Blue Bay'."

Lei Lei Nuozi pointed to a three-story building ahead.

This restaurant looked quite impressive, with outer walls built of some kind of translucent blue stone that emitted a soft halo under the lights.

Two merman waiters in sophisticated uniforms stood in front of the door, politely welcoming customers.

Walking into the restaurant, the interior decoration was even more breathtaking.

In the center was a huge aquarium, where various rare marine creatures swam; some glowed, some had strange shapes, and others seemed to be able to change color at will.

The ceiling was made of countless small pieces of crystal spliced together, simulating the light and shadow effects of the underwater world, making one feel as if they were in the deep sea.

"Wizard Lei Lei Nuozi!" A merman manager with a big belly hurried over, bowing with some difficulty:

"Huff, puff... Welcome back! Your private room is already prepared."

"Thank you, Arno."

Lei Lei Nuozi smiled and nodded, turning to Luo En:

"This is Wizard Ralph, also a highly talented bloodline expert."

"Wizard Ralph, welcome!"

The merman manager hurriedly bowed again, a glimmer of awe flashing in his eyes:

"It is our honor to host two noble wizards; please follow me."

He led the two through the main hall to a relatively secluded corner.

There was a translucent seashell door, and after pushing it open, it was a beautifully decorated private room.

The room was not large, but it was exquisitely designed.

In the center was a round dining table made of some rare deep-sea wood, emitting a faint blue light.

Glowing corals were embedded in the surrounding walls, providing soft lighting for the entire space.

Most eye-catching was the floor-to-ceiling window on one side of the room, directly overlooking the bay.

The sea surface in the night was reflected with countless starlight, like a flowing sea of stars.

"Please sit." The merman manager pulled out the chairs respectfully and then handed over the menu:

"We just received a batch of fresh 'Eye-Foot Octopus'. Also, the 'Thunderlight Fish' that arrived the day before yesterday is extremely fresh. I suggest you two try..."

Lei Lei Nuozi nodded to Luo En:

"The signature dishes of this restaurant are all worth trying, especially that Monster Eye Soup; it is said to be able to enhance the consumer's spiritual perception."

Luo En flipped through the menu, which recorded an extremely rich variety of monster cuisine.

From common sea-caught fish to rare Thunderlight Fish, from ordinary submarine ferns to precious soul-spirit algae, everything was available.

Each ingredient was accompanied by a brief description, introducing its source, cooking method, and possible peculiar effects.

"Let's order according to your recommendation." Luo En closed the menu: "It's clear that Wizard Lei Lei Nuozi is very familiar with this place."

Lei Lei Nuozi nodded with a smile and gave a series of instructions to the manager, including several main dishes and side dishes.

After the manager left, the two began to talk.

"As someone visiting the Glass Archipelago for the first time, how does it feel?"

Lei Lei Nuozi asked, pouring a cup of clear blue liquid for Luo En.

This was a refreshing drink unique to the island, extracted from a certain deep-sea plant.

"Quite unique."

Luo En took a sip of the blue liquid, feeling a cool and slightly salty sensation spreading on the tip of his tongue:

"Quite different from the oppressive and dull atmosphere of the Black Fog Jungle. The magic fluctuations in the air here are more active, yet not as chaotic as I imagined."

"This is exactly the uniqueness of the Glass Archipelago." Lei Lei Nuozi explained:

"This sea area is located at the intersection of three major magic currents, forming a special equilibrium state. Coupled with the regulating effect of the surrounding seawater, it has become one of the few areas where magic is stable and abundant."

While they were talking, the first dish was served.

It was a bowl of soup that looked ordinary but emitted a strange light.

Floating on the soup were a few fish fillets as thin as cicada wings, and in the middle was a complete octopus eyeball, crystal clear, with some kind of energy seemingly flowing inside.

"Monster Eye Soup." Lei Lei Nuozi signaled Luo En to taste it first: "Remember to eat the eyeball as well; that is where the essence lies."

Luo En picked up the spoon and scooped up some soup.

As soon as it touched his tongue, an unprecedented delicious taste bloomed in his mouth, accompanied by subtle energy fluctuations, as if tiny electric currents were coursing through his blood vessels.

This was not just a sensory enjoyment, but an experience at the energy level.

When he chewed the octopus eyeball and swallowed it, a sense of spiritual relaxation and relief emerged spontaneously.

At the same time, his thinking became clearer, and the panel also displayed a slight increase in his spiritual attributes at this moment.

"You felt it, right?" Lei Lei Nuozi looked at Luo En's slightly surprised expression and smiled:

"This kind of perception enhancement is only effective the first time; there's no feeling afterward."

The subsequent dishes were equally mouth-watering.

There was a main dish roasted with Thunderlight Fish, where the faint electric energy remaining in the fish meat perfectly blended with the special seasoning.

Each bite was accompanied by subtle electric current stimulation, which not only enhanced the taste experience but also improved his nerve reaction speed slightly.

There was also a "Star Sea Algae with Stem Grass," a cold dish made from rare glowing plants in the deep sea, which could enhance the efficiency of the magic circulation in the consumer's body to a certain extent.

The two exchanged their experiences and insights while enjoying the food.

"Speaking of the Central Lands."

Lei Lei Nuozi wiped the corner of his mouth after tasting a special sea beast meat:

"I don't know what you know about that place, but one thing is certain: it is definitely different from any place you have seen before."

A glimmer of reminiscence flashed in his eyes:

"For those who step into the Central Lands for the first time, the biggest shock is the highly concentrated magic that is everywhere.

In the air, in the rocks, in the flowing water, and even in the dust, it is full of pure magic.

Those who have just arrived often experience discomfort such as headaches and dizziness due to sudden magic 'overload'."

(End of chapter) ===== CHAPTER 255 =====