"Cheers!"
Clinking glasses, smiling, after serving the guests, the chefs began to serve themselves. After all the guests had dispersed, they gathered in the dining room, each required to prepare one or two of their signature dishes, which then formed a banquet.
"Hundred Flower Crisps are here~"
He held a huge platter in his hands, filled with flower crisps of various shapes. This was also the main content Hoshino Sora and Yumeko Jabami had been studying during this period.
Why is it called a niche and unconventional dish?
Because every dish used flowers, and the taste was quite novel, not necessarily accepted by everyone.
It's like stinky tofu; those who love it cherish it like a treasure, while those who hate it avoid it, fearing even a speck.
"So beautiful!"
"It smells good too, let me try~"
"Hmph, the appearance is well done, but if it were me, I could definitely do better."
However, no one present disliked these pastries made from flowers. In fact, seeing the beautiful flower-shaped desserts, joy appeared on their faces.
Compared to boys who prioritize practicality, most girls like beautiful things, and they were no exception.
"Did you make all of these?"
"Yumeko also helped, so it can't be considered my sole credit."
Hearing the surprised words of Shinomiya Kaguya, who was sitting next to him, Hoshino Sora turned his head, shrugged, and answered matter-of-factly.
"So impressive."
Looking at the Chrysanthemum Cake in her hand, Shinomiya Kaguya's voice was filled with emotion. She had to stay overnight because she had final finishing work to do, so she would leave with the chefs tomorrow.
"So crispy, is the filling hawthorn? And there's a strong chrysanthemum fragrance, did you add chrysanthemums inside? The sweet and sour taste is wonderful!"
"Yes, because we're about to eat, so a bit of hawthorn to whet the appetite. As for the so-called chrysanthemum fragrance, it doesn't use chrysanthemums, but chrysanthemum honey collected by bees."
"I see, what a clever idea. No wonder this dish has such an elegant taste."
Looking at Shinomiya Kaguya's adorable expression of pure happiness after eating the dish, Hoshino Sora explained softly, then also picked up the Chrysanthemum Cake in front of him and began to eat.
At the same time, plate after plate of dishes were continuously brought to the dining table. The variety was more abundant than the Chrysanthemum Banquet during the day, and the taste was even better.
As for the reason, it was probably because what was being made now wasn't standard fare, but each person's signature dish.
This also made Shinomiya Kaguya unable to stop eating. Although her family also had amazing chefs, even the most amazing chef couldn't present so many different types of dishes at once!
While chefs learn many types of cuisine, they often specialize in one, using other knowledge as a foundation to strengthen that one. Trying to master everything often leads to mastering nothing.
Being a chef is great! If you want to eat something, you can make it yourself, and you can also enjoy delicious dishes meticulously prepared by your colleagues.
The happiness index just shot up!
Savoring Tadokoro Megumi's Claypot Chrysanthemum Chicken, Hisako Arato's Chrysanthemum Health Soft-shelled Turtle, Mito Ikumi's...
Hoshino Sora's face showed an expression of enjoyment. Putting aside other things, just talking about the taste and portion, he ate very satisfyingly, feeling strangely like an ancient emperor eating imperial cuisine.
"Ding ding ding."
"Hello, mm, okay, I understand."
His phone suddenly rang, and Alice Nakiri got up to answer a call. Due to Azami Nakiri's return, Erina Nakiri's entire network was cut off by him, but Alice remained unaffected.
Therefore, Hoshino Sora and his group had been relying on Alice to confirm matters with the outside world during this time, ensuring they could make it to the New Elite Ten selection competition.
"Everyone, please pause and listen to me. The day after tomorrow, the day after tomorrow is the opening day of the New Elite Ten selection. Business magnates will be invited to observe, and culinary world experts will judge.
I've already had someone pre-register us, but we must return tomorrow, otherwise we might lose our eligibility to compete."
She briefly reiterated the information from the phone call. Simply put, they had to return before tomorrow.
"Understood, let's eat first."
Hoshino Sora nodded in response. He was full of confidence in himself now. After this period of training, both his technique and ideas were several times stronger than during the Autumn Elections.
With his current strength, securing one of the top five elite ten seats should not be a problem. However, in this competition, showing off alone was useless; they needed to ensure at least five of their own could secure seats.
Senior Isshiki, without accident, was on their side. Soma Yukihira also had a certain probability of obtaining a seat, but the focus was still on them. Now it depended on Tadokoro Megumi and Yumeko Jabami's performance.
Among so many people, besides Erina Nakiri, the ones Hoshino Sora was most optimistic about were Tadokoro Megumi and Yumeko Jabami. The former gained confidence and technique during the practical training, while the latter showed extraordinary strength in this special training and also received some technical enhancement.
As for the remaining few, Alice Nakiri, Hisako Arato, and Shiina Mashiro were provisionally ranked as third-tier. The strength of the others was another tier weaker. Unless Far Moon's third-year students graduated now, it would be difficult for them to obtain elite ten seats.
After all, besides them, Soma Yukihira, Kurokiba Ryo, and Hayama Akira were also participating in this competition.
These three were the peak of the first year in the original Food Wars world. Although they could only be considered first-class now, they were still important combat forces.
Moreover, with the growth ability of the 'Drug King,' reaching the peak again was only a matter of time.
Quickly analyzing their own combat strength, Hoshino Sora made a simple judgment: it was not impossible for them to obtain five of the elite ten seats, provided that Azami Nakiri's side only had the combat strength they had shown.
Thinking of the three people behind Azami Nakiri that day, Hoshino Sora felt a chill, but he could do nothing. He had already done what he could, and could only hope that things would work out in the end.
As he picked up dishes and ate, Hoshino Tani Ren also noticed his son's preoccupation. He nudged him with his elbow, then gestured with his eyes for him to go outside with him.
Being father and son, Hoshino Sora understood Hoshino Tani Ren's meaning with just a glance. He immediately got up and followed him. Soon, the two arrived in the yard.
"Dad, is something wrong?"
Standing outside the yard, feeling the cool breeze, and looking at Hoshino Tani Ren, who lit a cigarette and remained silent, Hoshino Sora asked curiously.
"For the next six months, I'll be taking your mother to live in China for a while. I have a set of villa keys here, and a jade pendant. I'll give them all to you while I have the chance."
"Villa?" Hoshino Sora was puzzled. When did his family get a villa?
"Yes, it's also a fallback for you. Even if your plan ultimately fails and you're embarrassingly kicked out of Far Moon, you'll still have a place to settle down. But I hope you never have to use it."
He placed the keys in Hoshino Sora's hand, then took out a dragon-shaped jade pendant, hung on a red string, from his jacket pocket. However, the jade pendant looked somewhat like plastic and felt like stone.
"Is this a jade pendant?"
"Cough cough! This is a jade pendant, what's there to doubt?
Go for it. Far Moon is merely a stepping stone. If you secure an Elite Ten seat in your first year, you'll gain exemption from the entrance exam for Oriental Academy.
Now, let's go back and eat."
Hearing Hoshino Sora's questioning words, Hoshino Tani Ren's mouth twitched slightly, then he said in a deep voice. After speaking, he forcefully pushed the jade pendant into his hand.
Looking at the jade pendant in his hand, Hoshino Sora was silent for a few seconds, then returned to the restaurant with Hoshino Tani Ren.
At this time, the restaurant was still filled with laughter. Hoshino Sora seized the opportunity and quickly joined in, making merry with everyone.
Hoshino Tani Ren watched the playful group, drinking his wine alone, with a hint of nostalgia in his eyes. When he was a youth, he seemed to have played and joked with his friends just like this, how carefree.
——————
Crossing on a cruise ship, getting into a stretched limousine, and then another bumpy ride, after bidding farewell to Shinomiya Kaguya and Hoshino Tani Ren, the group returned to Yōbi Dormitory. As soon as they entered, they saw a pair of shoes at the entrance.
They were men's leather shoes.
"Long time no see, Erina and Alice."
His eyes were long and narrow, seemingly smiling. Sitting on the sofa in the living room, holding the tea that Hiratsuka Shizuka had just brewed for him, Azami Nakiri greeted the lively returning group with feigned gentleness.
"Father..."
Hearing his voice, Erina Nakiri, who had been laughing and chatting with Hisako, suddenly froze as if struck by lightning, then stiffly turned her head to see Azami Nakiri sitting on the sofa.
And with Azami Nakiri's appearance, the atmosphere on the scene immediately became tense, and the previous laughter and joy vanished in an instant.
Erina Nakiri's eyes trembled slightly, and she looked completely uncomfortable, instinctively hiding behind Hoshino Sora.
It was as if as long as he was in front of her, all difficulties could be easily resolved.
Azami Nakiri naturally noticed this detail and felt a surge of displeasure, but he still maintained the appearance of a smiling tiger. Seeing this, Hoshino Sora generously stepped forward.
"Father, is there something you need?"
Sitting on the opposite sofa, Hoshino Sora naturally poured himself a cup of tea, then looked at Azami Nakiri, his aura strong, and his single word "Father" stunned the other party.
"Hoshino-kun, even if you might be dating Erina now, you can't just call me 'Father'. After all, it's highly unlikely you two will get married in the future."
"It shouldn't be a big problem. After all, Far Moon's old man has agreed. In the future, I should be marrying both Erina and Alice."
Facing Azami Nakiri's questioning, Hoshino Sora spoke eloquently, and as he spoke, Alice forcibly pulled Erina to sit beside him, one on each side, looking like he was embracing both of them.
For a moment, Hoshino Sora seemed to have become the wicked son-in-law, while Azami Nakiri became the aggrieved father of the bride.
"What does Erina think? Is it really as Hoshino-kun says? To marry him along with Alice? Although the law allows it, is such a relationship truly suitable for you? Don't regret it later."
Azami Nakiri's voice carried a faint pressure, his gaze fixed directly on Erina Nakiri's eyes, seemingly wanting to continue to oppress her through this, to exercise mental control.
In fact, it did succeed. Erina Nakiri placed her hands on her lap, unable to speak, and lowered her head, her expression somewhat nervous.
However, at this moment, Hoshino Sora suddenly reached out and held her hand. The faint warmth gave her strength and courage. Erina Nakiri gritted her teeth and nodded heavily: "Father, Hoshino-kun and I have been dating for a long time, and our relationship has always been very strong."
"Erina-sama?!"
Hearing Erina Nakiri's words, Hisako Arato, who was standing behind the sofa, was full of shock. How did they suddenly start dating?! She had never heard such news before!
"Is that so? I respect your decision, but don't fall for the wrong person."
The voice was gentle but full of confrontation. Azami Nakiri picked up his bag and prepared to leave. He had only come today to test Erina's attitude, and he hadn't expected her to be so resolute.
He had truly underestimated Hoshino Sora, this cunning man.
"Don't worry, Father, I won't let Erina get involved with 'that kind of person'. I will do my best to protect her."
Clenching his fists slightly, Hoshino Sora pretended not to know that the other party was talking about him, speaking with a passionate expression, and his performance truly infuriated Azami Nakiri.
"That's good!"
The last sentence was almost gritted out, and then Azami Nakiri left Yōbi Dormitory. Clearly, he had heard the sarcasm directed at him in the other party's last words.
What a sharp-tongued brat!
"Erina-sama! When did you start dating this guy? Why have you never told me?! You're treating me too much like an outsider."
As soon as Azami Nakiri left, Hisako Arato immediately spoke in a wronged tone, seemingly complaining that Erina Nakiri hadn't told her such an important matter in advance.
This was also the first time she had spoken loudly to Erina Nakiri, and it was mixed with many unusual emotions.
Even Hisako Arato herself didn't notice this point.
"Because I only truly made up my mind just now, I didn't have time to tell you. I'm sorry, Hisako."
Hearing Hisako's somewhat emotional voice, Erina Nakiri couldn't help but feel puzzled, but she still patiently explained. She had indeed only just now confirmed this idea.
It wasn't just to deal with her father; if it were someone she disliked, she would never have said such words.
Realizing this, Erina instantly understood that she might truly have fallen in love with Hoshino Sora. She didn't know when it started, but her heart was already tied to him.
Before there was another suitable candidate, Hoshino Sora was currently the most suitable choice. The regrettable thing was that he was too much of a playboy, surrounded by many girls.
"Erina-sama..."
Realizing her misunderstanding, Hisako Arato's voice instantly became much softer, her face flushed slightly, and her eyes revealed a faint complexity. Her heart was also in a mess because of this matter.
She also didn't know why she reacted so strongly. Was it really because Erina Nakiri and Hoshino Sora were dating and she hadn't been told? Or was it because of something else...
In her mind, she couldn't help but recall the scene during her outdoor training when she asked Hoshino Sora to take care of Erina-sama, and he took advantage of her like crazy.
This should have been a very disgusting thing, but she couldn't feel any dislike for Hoshino Sora. Sometimes, when she couldn't sleep at night, these thoughts would appear in her mind, and then she would generate her own power...
These were Hisako Arato's hidden secrets, kept bottled up because she was afraid Erina-sama would be angry, but now it seemed Erina-sama had fallen first.
Then she would just bless her from where she was. Being able to watch Erina Nakiri from behind her, seeing her find happiness, she already felt very happy!
"Hoshino Sora." Rarely, Hisako Arato directly called Hoshino Sora by his name, her eyes serious.
"I hope you can take good care of Erina-sama! If she is wronged by you, I will never let you off! Remember that!"
Clenching her small fists, her voice trembling slightly, Hisako Arato forced herself to step forward, her heart a mix of emotions, her mind filled with all sorts of thoughts.
Such as, would Erina-sama no longer need her after being with Hoshino Sora? Would Erina-sama lose interest in her after getting a boyfriend?
"What are you talking about? I can't serve this tsundere young lady. You know my personality. This job should be left to you. You'll definitely be marrying in as part of the dowry!"
Hearing Hisako Arato's words, Hoshino Sora looked at her dodging eyes, thought for a moment, then patted her shoulder and said with a smile.
And after Hisako Arato heard his words, her cheeks visibly flushed.
"You... what are you saying? Marrying together, do you think this is buying vegetables at a market?! And buy one get one free..."
Hisako Arato said anxiously, looking at Erina Nakiri beside her, only to find that the other party seemed to be seriously considering it. She couldn't help but feel a surge of joy, but still felt that this wouldn't do.
"Emmm, actually, I said this after careful consideration. After all, I also really like Hisako. After all, we've been through so much together.
Besides, Hisako herself is very cute, and her cooking is great. I have no reason to dislike her at all, or rather, do you dislike me so much that you can't date me for Erina's sake?!"
"I'm not, I just..."
As he spoke, Hoshino Sora's face showed a hint of disappointment. He was definitely going to conquer Hisako, but he hadn't expected it to happen so quickly, and in front of so many people.
But he had no choice! If he didn't seize the moment to say these words now, he might never be able to say them again. Later, neither the timing nor the emotion would be right.
"What a playboy."
"He's starting to trick young girls again."
Hisako Arato was still in a mess, but the girls next to her started to jeer first, because Hoshino Sora had too many girlfriends; there were three just at the scene.
Outside, there were four more, and the number of girls with ambiguous relationships was countless.
Playboy!
Listening to Hoshino Sora's confession, Shiina Mahiru's expression, among the group of girls, was somewhat complex. Her hand slightly clutched the corner of her clothes, looking tense and hesitant. Her mouth opened a few times, but in the end, she didn't speak.
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