Chapter 34: Elizabeth's Vow

After being called by Max twice, Elizabeth snapped back to her senses. She replied enthusiastically, "Yes, yes, I'm coming!" With that, she took her seat at the table where the enticing dishes had been placed. The aroma wafting from the food was utterly captivating, and she couldn't wait to savor each delightful bite.

The dish prepared by Max looked incredibly enticing, and Elizabeth couldn't help but be captivated by its visual appeal. She asked, "May I inquire about the name of this delightful creation?"

Max let out a chuckle before answering, "Of course, this is a classic  dish in my hometown called 'Coq au Vin.'"

What Elizabeth didn't know this was a French dish. It's traditionally made with chicken cooked in red wine, complemented by mushrooms, onions, and bacon. The slow-cooking process in wine infuses the dish with a rich and hearty flavor. It's commonly served with crusty bread or a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. Coq au Vin is renowned for its delicious combination of ingredients and its deeply savory profile.

However, Max had added his own unique twist by using 1st-tier Ice Argonos Bear meat instead of the usual chicken, resulting in a mesmerizing cold vapor emanating from the dish.

Elizabeth was intrigued by the adaptation of the classic dish. She expressed her curiosity, saying, "The name may be peculiar, but the presentation and aroma are certainly enticing. Allow me to taste this exquisite creation." She was captivated by the dish's stunning appearance and perfect texture, reflecting the culinary artistry that Max had poured into it.

With her first bite, a burst of exquisite flavors enveloped her taste buds. The meat, so succulent and tender, seemed to melt in her mouth, and the dish's rich, complex aroma tantalized her senses. It was an experience like no other as if she had been transported to a realm of culinary perfection. Elizabeth's initial reaction was a soft moan of pleasure, an instinctual response to the sheer delight coursing through her.

She was captivated by the combination of tastes, unable to contain her joy. The dish was nothing short of a masterpiece, and she felt an overwhelming urge to savor every bite. As she continued to eat, her words failed her, and she couldn't help but express her delight through satisfied sounds and delighted nods.

Max watched her reaction with a sense of pride and fulfillment. Seeing Elizabeth, a princess and a royal, relishing his creation was a moment he would always treasure.

Her enjoyment of his culinary prowess was the greatest compliment he could receive.

As Elizabeth savored the last few bites, a remarkable sensation washed over her. She could feel a subtle yet distinct increase in her mana, and her connection to the ice element, in particular, felt significantly stronger. It was as if the dish had awakened something within her.

The princess was taken aback by this unexpected development. She had never encountered a food that could have such a profound impact on her magical abilities. Gazing at Max with a mixture of astonishment and intrigue, she wondered if he was aware of the unique qualities of his dishes.

"Max, this dish... it's incredible," Elizabeth began, her voice laced with both surprise and curiosity. "I can feel a noticeable enhancement in my mana. Is this a common effect of your cooking, or is it something special you do?"

Her inquiry was genuine, as she tried to understand the enchanting connection between the food Max prepared and its influence on her magical abilities.

"Umm, that's one way to put it," Max chuckled softly.

Max's chuckle was a bit evasive, and he skillfully sidestepped the topic. He had no intention of revealing his unique abilities or the secret behind his cooking.

It was a closely guarded secret that he intended to keep hidden from others. The last thing he wanted was to attract unwanted attention or scrutiny, especially considering the potential ramifications of his extraordinary skills.

Elizabeth couldn't help but respect Max's decision to keep his culinary talents under wraps. She understood the importance of discretion and recognized that she had stumbled upon something remarkable today. Instead of pressing further, she returned to savoring the delectable meal.

As she continued to eat, her thoughts raced with the possibilities of what this newfound ability might mean. The taste and effects of Max's cooking left a lasting impression on her, and she silently marveled at the mysterious world of mana-infused cuisine.

Elizabeth savored every bite of the exquisite meal Max had prepared. The warmth and flavor-filled her with indescribable joy.

It was a unique experience for her, as she was accustomed to having her food carefully tested and prepared by her maids before she could eat. This unadulterated enjoyment of a meal, free from the constraints of royal protocol, was a refreshing change.

However, she couldn't let her elation take control. Responsibility and her royal role weighed heavily on her, and they were quick to remind her that she couldn't simply fly with happiness. Elizabeth composed herself and offered Max a gracious smile.

"Thank you, Max. That was truly an amazing dish. I appreciate your kindness and the opportunity to experience something extraordinary today," Elizabeth expressed her gratitude.

Max nodded in response, humbly acknowledging her appreciation. While Elizabeth was grateful for the unique experience, she couldn't escape the reality of her royal duties, even when enjoying an exceptional meal.

"Though I don't have any material payment to offer, I extend my friendship to you. I am Elizabeth Von Lionheart, the princess of the Lionheart kingdom, and I solemnly swear upon the world's energy, 'Mana', that I will assist you whenever you need help." This vow, sworn upon Mana, is unbreakable and carries significant weight, signifying a strong bond of trust and support.

With these words, Elizabeth took her leave, leaving Max in a state of shock. He was dumbfounded by the revelation that he had served his food to a royal, the princess of the Lionheart kingdom no less.

The promise she made to Mana was an honor he never expected. As he watched her graceful departure, Max couldn't help but break into a warm grin.

The experience of serving a royal and the promise of friendship left him with a sense of wonder and excitement about the adventures that lay ahead in this new world.

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[Author Here: My health is in very poor condition, and I'm suffering from a severe migraine. Unfortunately, I won't be able to write a chapter tomorrow, so I hope you can understand and forgive me.]