Once they successfully began extracting oil, the fuel problem that had plagued the Science Kingdom's plans for a long voyage was finally resolved.
The Perseus's propulsion system finally had its most essential energy source.
With fuel secured, they were more than halfway there, but a new problem soon confronted everyone.
The voyage across the sea would be long. To sustain the entire crew throughout the journey, they needed ample food reserves that would keep well.
Li Xiang sat at the camp's stone table, tapping her fingertips against its surface.
First, the food needed an exceptionally long shelf life. It couldn't start growing mold or rotting after a short trip.
Second, it couldn't taste too coarse or bland. They needed to be able to eat it for a long time without getting sick of it.
Finally, the ingredients had to be things Ishigami Village could currently obtain and produce in bulk.
Instant noodles were the first thing that came to her mind.
But after giving it some thought, Li Xiang gently shook her head and rejected the idea.
For instant noodles to keep for a long time, they needed artificial preservatives.
On a lengthy ocean voyage, without suitable preservative additives, instant noodles would readily absorb moisture and spoil. Oxidation of their oils would also make them unsuitable as provisions for the journey.
Francois spoke up at just the right moment with a practical suggestion.
"Miss Li Xiang, if you're looking for something that keeps well and suits a long journey, yeast-leavened bread would be a good choice."
Li Xiang nodded in agreement. Francois's suggestion was certainly sound.
"We can stock up on bread, of course, but eating nothing but bread for the entire trip would be far too monotonous."
With so much time to be spent at sea, she wanted to