Chapter 20: An Extraordinary Culinary Experience

With Edward and Max's departure, a heavy silence descended upon the room, and each person was lost in their own thoughts.

Baron Adlof had diligently worked for the past five years to elevate his standing and expand his lands within the complex web of the social hierarchy.

In discussions with his wife, who happened to be a cousin of Count Francisco, they had proposed a potential match between the Baron's youngest daughter and the Count's youngest son.

Count Francisco's visit presented a timely opportunity, and the Baron had plans in motion.

Today, Count Francisco arrived to finalize the marriage date, now scheduled for just two days.

During their conversation, Count Francisco had shared his desire to engage a mana chef for their children's wedding feast.

This idea had provided an opening for Baron Adlof, who had mentioned Edward as a trusted candidate for the task.

To his benefit, Count Francisco had responded positively to the suggestion, seeing the potential of having Edward cater the event.

However, the morning's culinary mishap had dampened Count Francisco's initial enthusiasm, putting Baron Adlof in a challenging position.

Yet, driven by his trust in Edward's character and abilities, he had extended a second chance. The recent turn of events appeared to be the result of his patients wait for a potential miracle.

As Baron Adlof let out a soft sigh, he recognized that Max was now his last hope.

Turning to Count Francisco, he inquired, "Count Francisco, what are your thoughts on the proposal made by Edward's disciple?"

[A/N - Baron Adlof and Count Francisco share a longstanding friendship and familial connection, allowing for a more informal address when they are in private.]

Count Francisco chuckled heartily in response. "Adlof, I cannot say for certain if the proposal is true or not, but that young man certainly knows how to handle a situation." His keen eyes had assessed Max's demeanor, and he possessed a shrewd ability to read people.

The atmosphere in the room seemed to shift, and an air of curiosity surrounded Max's proposal.

After another 5 minutes, the door to the VIP room swung open once more, and this time Chef Edward and Max entered, accompanied by two additional individuals dressed in chef attire, each carrying a bowl of dishes.

As the table was set and the dishes were presented, a hushed anticipation filled the room.

The aroma wafting from the plates was exquisite, filling the air with a tantalizing blend of herbs and spices.

Count Francisco, previously hesitant about the dish Max had mentioned, watched his skepticism vanish when the beautifully prepared food was presented before him.

The aroma alone was extraordinary, and it hinted at a culinary delight that promised not to disappoint. He realized that judging a dish solely based on initial expectations was a mistake.

At that moment, Count Francisco understood the wisdom in the saying: 'You should never judge a book by its cover.' The exquisite presentation and tantalizing aroma were compelling evidence that Max was capable of culinary excellence.

The true test, however, would be in the taste, and Count Francisco was eagerly anticipating that moment.

Adlof and Francisco exchanged an anticipatory glance, their taste buds already tingling in anticipation of the culinary spectacle that was about to unfold before them.

Except for Kronus, Max, and Edward, everyone else exited the room, leaving Baron and Count to enjoy their meal in private.

As Adlof and Francisco laid their eyes on the exquisitely prepared dishes, their faces beamed with admiration.

"It's beautifully prepared," Count Francisco remarked, breaking the room's silence. "And its aroma, Ahh ha ha ha, what a truly wonderful aroma, it is truly extraordinary, simply superb."

On the other side of the table, Adlof couldn't help but drool at the sight and aroma of the food.

He responded to Count Francisco's comment with eager anticipation, "Yes, Count, the food's aroma and texture are indeed amazing. But I sincerely hope that the taste lives up to the high standards that Edward and his disciple mentioned previously," Baron Adlof added, his taste buds tingling in anticipation.

As the Baron and his guests savored the soup, they couldn't help but be enchanted by its extraordinary flavor.

Max's mana-infused chicken soup had left an indelible mark on their palates.

Max knew that his culinary journey in the world of Aiden was just beginning.

The result was nothing short of extraordinary. The aroma that wafted from the pot was intoxicating, and the soup itself seemed to shimmer with a subtle, otherworldly glow.

Max couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment as he ladled the soup into a bowl.

As Baron Adlof and Count Francisco took their first sips of the food prepared by Max, their eyes widened in wonder, and their faces lit up with delight.

It was as if they had tasted a piece of heaven. The dish offered a perfect balance of contrasts that delighted their taste buds. It combined creamy and crispy elements, with a velvety smoothness complemented by delicate, satisfying crunches.

Moreover, the flavors were intricately layered, creating a symphony of taste that harmonized sweet, savory, and perhaps even hints of spiciness or acidity.

This complexity made every bite a multi-dimensional experience that evolved with each taste.

The seasoning was impeccably balanced, avoiding any excess saltiness, sourness, or sweetness, resulting in a nuanced and memorable taste profile.

Furthermore, the aroma was mouthwatering, drawing them in with its enticing scents, and providing a tantalizing preview of the culinary excellence that awaited them.

Overall, that initial sip left Baron Adlof and Count Francisco pleasantly surprised, deeply impressed, and eagerly anticipating the next culinary revelations, all of which showcased Max's exceptional culinary skill and Chef Edward's expert guidance.

What transpired next left both Baron Adlof and Count Francisco in a state of disbelief and wonder.

They exchanged astonished glances as if a bolt of lightning had just struck them.

Count Francisco was the first to voice his amazement, addressing Baron Adlof, "Adlof, did you experience what I just did?" He wore a look of confusion mixed with amazement.

Baron Adlof, equally perplexed, responded, "Yes, Count, I sensed it too. It's as if my mana capacity has increased slightly, and my affinity for fire magic feels more pronounced."

Their bewilderment was palpable as they tried to comprehend the inexplicable phenomenon that had occurred after consuming Max's culinary creation.

Unbeknownst to Max, the 'God of Cooking' skill had worked its magic. The soup had not only warmed their bodies but had also infused them with a newfound vitality and resilience. Their eyes sparkled with renewed energy, and they chatted animatedly about the delicious meal.