After returning the horse, Li Huowang entered an inn, as he needed a good rest to recover his strength before boarding the ship due to the exhausting ride on roads and waves.
"Your dishes are ready, sir," said the waiter as he finished serving the dishes. Just as he turned to leave, Li Huowang stopped him.
"Wait, the fish and shrimp are still alive? How am I supposed to eat these?"
"Hehe, is this your first time in Huating City? They're not alive; this is called 'raw pickled.' Look, the other guests are eating like this too. You should try it—if it's not to your liking, it's on the house."
Li Huowang looked at the other tables' food and then waved the waiter away with his right hand wrapped in gauze.
Perhaps because of its proximity to the sea, the local cuisine differed greatly from other places, with a focus on seafood.
Although it was a bit uncomfortable at first, he had to admit the fresh, sweet taste of the raw pickled meat was quite unique.
