Chapter 11: Culinary Collaboration

Edward found himself impressed by Max's unwavering confidence. However, he also understood a crucial aspect of magic in this world – you didn't necessarily need to be a magician to prepare tier 0 mana-infused food, but Max was claiming to be capable of creating tier 1 mana food without the status of a tier 0 magician.

Intrigued and somewhat skeptical, Edward decided to confront Max. His voice, gruff and questioning, cut through the air as he addressed the young chef,

"Hey there, young boy, how are you able to cook tier-1 mana food without being a magician?"

Max, displaying a level of preparedness that matched his earlier confidence, responded promptly, "Sir, in reality, I am already a tier 0 magician. However, since it doesn't hold much significance to be a tier 0 magician, I didn't mention it earlier."

Max had proactively sought clarification from the system because he had no prior knowledge of magic. 

The system had informed him that he was indeed a tier 0 magician. In this world, magicians at the 0th and 1st tiers were referred to as magic apprentices. These novice magicians didn't immediately delve into casting spells or performing advanced magic.

Instead, they began by learning the fundamentals, such as how to harness and channel magic within their bodies.

As they gained knowledge and honed their skills, they progressed from the 0th tier to higher tiers by adding magic circles to their hearts. 

Each tier corresponded to the number of circles in a magician's heart, with a 1st tier magician having one circle, and the progression continuing up to the 9th tier, where a magician had nine circles. 

These circles served as guides for mana, allowing it to flow through their bodies and be stored for later use.

In the realm of Aiden, having the status of a tier 0 magician was the minimum requirement to prepare tier 1 mana-infused food. 

Max's revelation clarified the situation for Edward, who now understood how the young chef possessed the necessary qualifications.

Edward acknowledged this with a nod, accepting Max's explanation.

  "That explains it. No problem, Max, I will assist you," he declared, showing his willingness to collaborate on the culinary task ahead.

"Alright, before we continue, it's essential that you change your attire and ensure your hands and mouth are clean," Edward advised Max.

Edward's guidance ensured that Max would be appropriately attired and clean before engaging in any culinary tasks, aligning with the standards expected in a professional kitchen setting.

Edward provided clear instructions to Max, directing him to the changing room located on the right side of the establishment, adjacent to the restroom. 

He added a useful tip, instructing Max to respond to any inquiries with the explanation that Chef Edward had requested the attire change.

Max acknowledged the instructions with a simple nod, indicating his understanding and readiness to follow through with the necessary preparations.

This exchange served a practical purpose in maintaining hygiene and professionalism in the kitchen. 

Once Max had completed all the necessary changes and preparations, he returned to the kitchen with a newfound sense of readiness and determination.

With his attire changed and his hands and mouth clean, Max entered the kitchen once more. 

He sought out Chef Edward to signify his readiness to begin their culinary collaboration.

"Mr. Edward, I'm fully prepared now," Max declared, his tone reflecting his eagerness to embark on their culinary venture together.

In essence, this was a pivotal moment in their collaboration, as Max had transitioned from being a newcomer seeking an opportunity to a dedicated and well-prepared member of the kitchen team.

"Oii, kid" Max was entrusted with a crucial task as he listened attentively to the chef's instructions. "Could you gather all the ingredients and verify if we have everything we need?"

Max, displaying his commitment, responded promptly, "Certainly, let me take a look."

Acknowledging Max's dedication, Chef Edward encouraged him with a reassuring, "Take your time, young man."

With precision and thoroughness, Max dedicated the next five minutes to meticulously inspecting the array of ingredients. He ensured that every component required for their culinary endeavor was present and accounted for.

After completing his inspection, Max reported back to Edward with unwavering confidence. "Mr. Edward, I've double-checked, and I can confirm that we have all the necessary ingredients. I'm fully prepared to proceed."

Chef Edward expressed his gratitude and trust in Max's abilities, recognizing the significance of this collaboration. However, he also shared a personal challenge he was facing.

"Kid, I want you to know that you're my last hope in this situation," Edward admitted, his voice reflecting a hint of vulnerability. "I haven't been feeling well since yesterday, and my mana usage is limited. But I'll give it my all to assist you."

Max responded with unwavering support, ensuring Edward that his condition wouldn't be an issue. "No problem, Mr. Edward. We're in this together, and we'll make it work." 

Despite challenges and uncertainties, Max and Edward were ready to give their best efforts to create a memorable meal for the Baron and his guests.

Max gathered the ingredients and set to work, his hands moving with practiced grace. As he prepared the dish, he focused on infusing it with mana, following the instincts of his newly acquired skill.

'Max certainly doesn't appear to be inexperienced. He seems fully capable of backing up his words,' Edward contemplated silently, recognizing Max's culinary skills and determination.

Edward's internal reflection hinted at the chef's growing confidence in Max's abilities. Despite initial skepticism, he had come to appreciate Max's commitment and competence, setting the stage for a potentially successful culinary collaboration.

This shift in perception marked a turning point in their partnership as they prepared to create a memorable tier 1 mana-infused dish for the Baron and his esteemed guests.

[Author:-hy guys I hope you are doing well, I want to tell all my readers, that if you have any doubts or any exciting ideas feel free to add them in the comment box.

And I personally thank "Jason_Blanchette" for sending powerstones]