The trio soon arrived at an upscale restaurant, where Lirael ordered an array of pricey dishes—all new to Eldric's palate.
As he sampled each creation, he thought to himself, "Top-tier chefs indeed. Every bite's a masterpiece."
The same basic ingredients, the same seasonings—yet each chef's touch created entirely different flavors.
Though unfamiliar with the dishes, Eldric recognized most components—some surprisingly humble.
Yet the chef's skill transformed even simple vegetables into culinary magic, outshining clumsy meat dishes effortlessly.
By meal's end, Eldric's taste buds were thoroughly satisfied.
But as they rose to leave, they bumped into their worst nightmare.
There he stood—Demontae. Few people made Eldric's skin crawl like this man.
The loathing was mutual. When Demonta
