episode_0059

Returning to the lodging after barely calming down the unknown fervor left behind by the sword fellow, Kotas warmly greeted me in the inn lobby.

After building a rapport with Alain, it seemed unusual that Kotas initiated the conversation first, but I soon realized why this orc gourmet had come looking for me.

“It seems your patience has run out.”

“That’s correct.”

It was time to fulfill the promise.

Kotas urged me to prepare a ‘delicacy’ that would satisfy him, stating that all the ingredients I mentioned were ready.

“In two months, considering it’s an orc, he has been quite patient. Since all the essential and detailed ingredients are prepared, it’s time to create the dish that will please him.”

“Alright, I’ll make it. But you’ll have to wait until dinner to eat it. It takes a while to prepare.”

“Oh, I can be patient for that long. Even enjoying the process of creation is part of true gastronomy.”

After wiping away the drool at the corner of his mouth, he handed me his cooking utensils and spoke up.

“Shall I hand over the ingredients and tools now?”

“No, wait a bit. Once the cooking place is decided, then you can give them to me.”

“Well… isn’t that something to ask the innkeeper?”

“The pot, although large, may not accommodate all the ingredients. I plan to request ample space from the chieftain and use the large pot received from Stroheim to cook.”

If the ingredients were of a reasonable amount, it might have worked with just the inn’s pot. However, given the surplus of ingredients prepared as much as the bones left by the original dragon, was it too much?

Nevertheless, it was fine in its own way. After all, in cooking, the more ingredients used, the deeper the flavor.

Where did I hear that? Spending a year and a half in the military due to dysentery naturally brings such insights.

Think about the samgyetang served in the army; that should explain it, right? Of course, it varies from unit to unit.

Anyway, to use the enormous pot requested from Stroheim, a considerable open space is required, making the chieftain’s approval indispensable.

Well, it should be granted since it’s just for a day, akin to a free soup kitchen concept.

At least getting permission and proceeding is necessary, even though he’s the ruler of these lands.

As I explained my plan, Kotas gazed at me with a mysterious look in his eyes.

“If the food you make is truly excellent, passersby might gather like scavengers.”

“So what? Sharing happiness leads to abundance, doesn’t it? Enjoying gourmet food together is what true gastronomy is about.”

“I underestimated you. I didn’t expect you to think that far.”

“How did you usually perceive me?”

“Well…”

The awkward orc hesitated to speak, but given his rather illustrious record of not causing trouble, I didn’t reprimand him.

…I just gave him a light glare, that’s all.

Was it because of the awkward atmosphere?

Kotas, with a crestfallen expression, quickly excused himself to help with the preparations and left in a hurry.

Feeling pressed for time to get ready, I enhanced my body with magic and started running towards the chieftain’s residence.

*Panting*

After a while of running, I arrived at the chieftain’s residence.

War tends to be busier after it ends than during its course, judging by the sounds coming from there, but unfortunately, that wasn’t my concern.

This side also needed to focus now.

If I fail to treat the orc tonight, who wreaked havoc on the Southern Forest of Erof for not keeping the promise of providing him with a delicacy, I don’t know what might happen.

Back then, it seemed like there was still a bit of patience left.

Now, the patience has truly reached its limit. If I don’t give that guy some delicious food today, it might lead to a catastrophe.

So, even if I’m busy, I should ask for understanding, what can I do?

I spoke to the guard standing in front of the Duke’s residence.

“I’ve come to meet the Duke.”

“Who are you to be so rude? Identify yourself…”

“Could you inform him that a witch has arrived? I have something to say.”

“A witch…? Ah, you’re the witch! I will escort you right away. There was an urgent order to treat you with utmost respect when you arrive.”

“Oh.”

I thought there would be a struggle, but thanks to the Duke’s efficient handling of matters, I could quickly enter the mansion.

This way, it seems a bit more relaxed. No need to rush back when leaving.

Having visited the mansion once before for negotiations, I could find my way to the study without needing guidance.

Meeting the Duke again within a day, I informed her of the plan amidst the overwhelming pile of work she was drowning in.

Then.

“I also want to taste that food.”

“Your Grace, but the work…!”

“If the iron-willed Duke who conquered even winter were to perish under a mere stack of documents, wouldn’t that be a comedy in itself? Don’t you think so?”

“…”

Having been buried in paperwork, the Duke expressed her willingness to participate in the event as well.

The preparations ended much faster than expected.

Without a moment to rest, I called for Cortas and hurried to the assigned field with the excited orc.

We began creating a unique and delicious dish that would never be found elsewhere.

—–

…It was truly a day that could be called the worst of the worst.

Do you know how it feels to be caught masturbating in front of your crush?

It’s so miserable that words fall short of describing it.

And if they even give you a look of ‘I understand’… at that moment, you feel like hanging yourself out of shame.

I usually refrain from swearing, but this time was really damn awful.

I clearly locked the door, so why was the lock malfunctioning?

Why did Beatrice have to open the door and appear at that very moment?

It was so embarrassing and shocking.

Unintentionally, I ended up blaming Beatrice.

“You crazy bastard.”

What if I blurt out my true feelings?

‘I really want to rape you.’ Who likes hearing that?

My score must have plummeted due to this incident.

Perhaps Beatrice might leave just like this…

“Sigh…”

Until dinner time, I aimlessly walked around with a heavy heart.

Returning to the lodging felt terrifying. I was afraid that she might leave after breaking up with me.

…What should I do?

No matter how I think about it, it seems difficult to salvage the situation. Should I kneel down and apologize?

Gnash! Gnaw!

As I nervously bit my nails and took a few more steps, I overheard an interesting piece of information from passersby.

“Have you heard the rumor? They’re giving out free food near the bustling square today!”

“Oh, I heard about it. The witch and the orc are preparing it, right? But how can we trust that food? It might turn us into frogs after eating it!”

“Is that so? I heard the witch is extremely wicked, and even the orc is assisting in cooking, so it should be trustworthy!”

“Well, aren’t they the heroes who drove away winter alongside His Grace? I think it’s worth believing them at least once!”

“Then, enjoy your meal. We’ll stick to the delicious food our foxy wife prepares for us.”

“Witch and orc… Beatrice and Cortas, perhaps.”

An unusual combination.

But after hearing the content, I had a rough idea of what was going on.

It seemed like Cortas was trying to keep the promise he made with that guy from Dasurim.

Shall we take a look around?

Standing in front of Beatrice, I was scared, but as long as I hid well and didn’t get caught, the fear subsided.

Alright, let’s just sneak a peek and come back. We’ll just gauge how our witch is feeling and then make a run for it.

With that determination in mind, I headed towards the square near the bustling street, but as soon as I arrived at the square, I had no choice but to retract my resolution.

An enchanting aroma emanated from the surroundings of the square.

It was a scent so enticing that the dinner prepared with great effort by the chef before leaving seemed like ordinary food.

“…It feels like we’re being lured in by some scent.”

However, resistance was futile. How could one resist tasting food with such a fragrance?

After letting out a long sigh, I quickly got in line to taste the food.

“You look lovely with your apron on.”

While waiting for my meal, I quietly observed Beatrice.

Watching her kindly smile as she shared the food, I couldn’t help but… drift into fantasies.

If she looks this beautiful with an apron on, how stunning would she be in a wedding dress at a wedding?

Imagining her holding hands, blushing with a shy, gentle smile –

“…Karl? What are you doing here…?”

“Ah.”

Beatrice’s soft voice snapped me out of my reverie.

…I’ve been daydreaming way too much, damn it.

I awkwardly chuckled and picked up the plate in front of me.

“The delicious smell made me…”

“Right?! Even I think it turned out really well, don’t you think? You came at the perfect time! Enjoy your meal!”

With a bright smile, she generously ladled stew onto my plate.

Seeing her lovely gesture that warmed my heart, I once again strongly vowed.

I will marry this wicked witch who has stolen my heart.