Chapter 769

Lisa's hostile attitude stunned Noah. He hadn't offended her, yet she seemed to resent him. After a moment's hesitation, he peeked inside and saw Lily, who was also looking in. Their eyes met. Noah smiled and said, "I'm looking for her," then walked past Lisa toward Lily.

Lisa, shocked, quickly turned and followed.

Noah looked around the studio, smiling. "You seem so relaxed. Have you completed the paperwork and licensing?"

Lily stood up, her attitude equally unfriendly. "You don't need to worry about that."

"It's my job to be concerned," Noah replied. "All perfumers are under the Perfumers' Society's control. You're unlicensed yet operating in this industry. Producing and selling perfumes without a license is illegal. So, how can I ignore this?"

He spoke casually, noticing the herbs planted around the studio. Its style resembled his own in Kingsland, though Lily's was more refined and meticulous. "This studio imitates my style," he stated.

Lily sneered. "Is there a problem, Mr. Richards? This is a classic style, not unique to you. Don't claim everything as your own and accuse others of copying you. Think before you speak. Do you deserve the credit?"

Lily's mockery was a pointed response to Noah's earlier impoliteness in Kingsland, an equally impolite exchange.

Noah's eyes widened. He rubbed his nose. "All right, I didn't expect you to be so quick-witted. I won't argue, Lily. The Perfumers' Society confirms you're unqualified. The record shows you took the exam once and failed."

His voice hardened, his eyes sharp. "Given your performance, you have two options: obtain a practicing certificate within two months, and we'll overlook your previous illegal activities; or you're barred from this industry permanently."

Lisa, observing from the sidelines, was largely lost. Recently arrived in Hyderland, her language skills were limited, and Noah spoke too quickly. However, she understood the final sentences. She interrupted, "Excuse me. What is a perfumer's certificate?"

An unknown man was trying to stop Lily from working; Lisa wondered what gave him the right. His repeated mention of the certificate puzzled her.

Noah, looking at Lily as he spoke to Lisa, explained, "A perfumer's certificate is required to work in this industry. Without it, you're not a qualified perfumer."

Lily found the situation amusing.