The scent of sizzling herbs, roasted root vegetables, and rich, smoky meat fills the inn's dining room. The wooden table groans beneath the weight of Sera's stewpot, surrounded by freshly baked bread, pickled garnishes, and little bowls of crunchy fried greens.
Vuvi groans in delight, spoon halfway to her mouth. "Sera… why didn't we recruit you sooner?"
Sera, blushing and flexing one arm shyly, stirs the pot with a massive ladle. "I always wanted to be a cook, really. But y'know…" She gestures at her muscular frame. "People see the shoulders, they hand you a sword."
"Tragedy," Vuvi mutters, shoving another bite in.
Across the table, Penelo twitches and shivers, both hands trembling around her bowl. "It's… it's happening…" she whispers.
"What?" Veena blinks.
Penelo's eyes roll back slightly. "F-F-Foodgasm…"
She tips backward in her chair, humming in euphoria.
