Rice Dilemma

In Laija's previous life, rice was the main food for every meal. But in this kingdom, it was considered as a very bland one.

It came as a great cultural shock to her that its great qualities were not discovered in the slightest.

The people did produced it to an average amount because it was still edible crop, mostly consumed by the poor, lower classes because it was very cheap. Porridge was the only dish they made with it, so it was very unpopular among the masses. It also had to do with the fact that breads, with its different shapes, sizes and delectable tastes go well with most of their dishes. Not to mention, bread was easy to eat and can be brought during travels.

Laija likes bread too but if she were to choose, it will always be rice for her.

Which brings us to the current situation, she was opening a food stall and serving a famous rice dish.

'What dish can you make from this other than porridge?' Francis asked, his brows furrowed in disapproval.

Laija did not say anything, she secured the headband over her hair and tightened the cream apron round her petite waist. She started heating up the stove and put a large pan over it. Then, she reached for the butter lying on the table, where Aniya and Domi were diligently cleaning the plates with a soft cloth.

Turning to Francis and the lady, who were looking even more puzzled, she said,

'Can you try the dish for me? I guarantee it will be good.' The duo nodded in unison. Laija also turned to Domi and Aniya, 'You both too.' The two children nodded with more vigor.

Laija put a piece of butter in the heated pan. She had already prepared everything beforehand, so the cooking will be done in a few minutes.

Laija tossed in chopped onions, garlic, bell peppers and carrots when the butter melted into the pan. They sizzled and she let them saute for a while in low heat. Next, she took out a bowl, quickly crack four eggs on it and whisked them with a fork. Then, she brought out some of the chilled rice and put them into the golden liquid. After coating them well, she put the egg rice onto the sizzling pan.

Following that, she added shredded chicken which had already been seasoned and roasted earlier. Then, she took out a cup of thick tomato sauce she had made just before and poured them in a circular motion until the last drop.

After sprinkling salt and chilli powder, she stirred the mixture over and over with the wooden spoon until everything was well cooked.

In a couple of minutes, it was done.

She divided the food on three plates and garnished it with chopped spring onions and cabbages. She served the dishes with the tomato sauce from before.

'What is this?' Francis remarked, eyes on the steaming plate.

'It smells wonderful!' The woman commented.

Domi and Aniya were already drooling in their little mouths.

'Have a taste.' Laija told them.

The four took a bite at the same time.

'Yummy!' Domi was the first to compliment the dish.

'It's so good!' Aniya was next, going for another bite.

The woman was also pleased. 'I didn't know rice could be so delicious!' She remarked.

Francis poured the tomato sauce on his plate and took one more bite. Soon after, looking satisfied, he uttered, 'I have to say this is the best rice I've had.'

This chicken and egg fried rice was a dish well-loved by many people back in her world. It could be made in different variations, accordingly to the preference of the customers and the ones cooking. Laija used to cook for her younger siblings in this way. She usually made them from leftover rice kept overnight.

With their support, Laija started selling the rice dish. The customers were drawn in by the irresistible smell that wafted from the hot pan. They came in good numbers and ordered. Many liked the tingling spicy taste that goes well with the sweet and sour tomato sauce. Lemonades with mint leaves and ice were also served and sold during afternoon.

The rice dish sold out on the first day.

It also apparently helped that the owners of the new shop were a very beautiful pair.

The following day, when business started, two rice farmers came rather early, before opening time. Laija did not mind, she prepared two plates.

After having the dish, they were ecstatic and reacted the same way as the other customers.

'Didn't know that our rice can taste so rich!' The tall one with the grey beard cried, putting down his spoon.

'As a rice farmer, this makes me very happy.' The older looking one with a thick moustache said with a toothy grin.

The other man spoke, 'Yes, people looked down on rice saying that it is the most flavorless food but this' he looked at his finished plate 'is a gourmet fit for royals!'

Francis had just finished counting the money, he turned to the old farmers and said, 'So, I take it that the town is mainly a producer of rice grain. That's why trade isn't good?'

'You are right. Because their price is cheaper compared to other grains, we don't get much. Our town hasn't been doing well getting materials from other towns.' The shorter man with the thick moustache replied with a sigh.

'The town head should be overseeing the matter and bringing some solutions.' Laija pointed out.

Both men laughed wryly. The tall farmer began saying with a frown, 'Our owner is quite busy going back and forth to the capital. You see, his daughter is getting married to some guy in the city.'

'It won't be long until we get a new head. But it will take a year or so.' The other joined in.

Laija and Francis quietly listened. No wonder this town was not thriving, it was being neglected by its own head.

'But that is not the problem at hand. I'm worried about our youth, they are not eating well.' The tall one continued, sounding grim.

'Most family can't afford to eat bread which is the staple food of our kingdom. But wheat grain is expensive here.' The man sighed.

Francis and Laija could not help but feel sorry. This poor management will lead them to a grave problem in the future.

The short middle aged man turned to face Laija and said in a lighter tone, 'Such a young lady you are! Where did you learn to cook rice like this?'

'It is a foreign cuisine.' She answered.

'Oh, that makes sense.' He nodded, rubbing the beard on his chin.

'Other than being such a wonderful cook, you are also very beautiful. Your husband is a fortunate man.' The tall man said with a teasing smile, glancing between her and Francis.

The blonde man did not respond, he just smirked proudly. Laija wanted to wipe it off his face. But she also did not affirm or deny it. She just learned that it saved a lot of breath letting people assumed that as a fact.

'Why don't you two settle here?' The short man asked.

'That's right. We have a lot of empty houses. We can loan it to you for cheap. Stay here and open shop, you will earn well.' His friend tried to interest them.

'Oh, thank you for the offer but we can't. We are going to Aurvina in a few days.' Francis replied.

'That is so? Pity for us.'

'We will miss your rice dish.'

Both the men were dejected.

That night, as Laija lay in bed she pondered about the matter. She was not one to meddle but seeing the people earnestly enjoying the rice dish and the farmers being proud of producting it, she wondered if she should help them.

The next day, back at the square, they had already made their handsome profit for the third day.

After putting the money safely into the pouch, Francis turned to Laija who was clearing the table.

'Hey, do you want to help them?' He asked her suddenly.

The question was abrupt and unexpected from him. Laija was caught off guard. 'What?'

'You know, you have this expression on your face ever since yesterday.' He told her.

Laija did not respond, stared at him, to see if he was joking.

'I'm serious. Tell me, what's on your mind?' He turned around in his chair to face her fully.

'I'm thinking I should teach them the recipe for the rice dish.' Laija gave in.

'Are you sure?' Francis asked.

'Yes. The townspeople like it very much, it's only fair I share it to them.' She told him. She genuinely felt so.

Francis rested his cheeks on his right hands, leaning his face on them and looked her way. 'You are really kind.' He says with a sweet smile, his deep violet eyes tenderly meeting her green ones.

Laija quickly averted her gaze, turning her attention on Domi and Aniya who were playing with a couple of kids in the corner. The two had manage to make friends so she allowed them to go have fun. It was already evening, they should be heading back.

Francis stood up. He reached for his lavender jacket lying hung on the chair and put it over his broad shoulders in a languid manner.

'I'm going to search for some cooks willing to learn it. Wait up for me.' Saying so, he left.

Laija could not decide if the man was being reliable or simply going well. Either way, was not so bad.

The fourth day, Laija closed shop and instead taught six ladies in one of the ladies' house.

Diligently, she explained the step one by one. It was not a complicated dish after all, but she had to make them know how to prepare the rice and sauce and in the best way. She also told them the various other ingredients that can be used. It was nice to see them sincerely interested in learning it.

To be honest, what she was doing is nothing much. It was not going to drastically upgrade the town. She was only moved by their genuine love of the dish. She could have taught many other recipes but she did not have the time to test them. They had already decided to leave tomorrow, having exceeded the amount of the money needed. They had enough money now to continue their travel to the next major town. So, Laija was glad she could do at least this much for them.

The fifth morning Laija and Francis, along with Domi and Aniya checked out of the inn. They headed for the marketplace where a few carriages were parked. When they arrived, they were amazed to see many familiar faces waiting for them.

'We heard you were leaving today, so we gathered some things to give it to you.' It was the tall rice farmer, he handed them over a basket filled to the brim.

Francis took it and looked down at the content inside, there were apples, breads and even some pastries.

'Thank you all!' Francis thanked them.

'It is really nothing.' Said one of the ladies. She was a customer who came frequently. 'Thanks to you, our town can brightened just a bit.' She added with a grateful smile.

Laija did not remember the names of all these people. She was bad with names and faces, a nasty habit from her previous life that got her in troubles. Francis on the other hand, knew everyone. He went on talking to all of them. Domi and Aniya also bade goodbye to their friends tearfully. They had only stayed for four days but it felt longer.

The young ladies huddled around Francis, complaining about how they were going to miss him. No matter where, he drew the women to him like moths to flame.

Laija thanked the two farmers and the vendor she was acquainted with these past days. Then, she ushered Domi and Aniya to climbed into the carriage. She was really not great with crowds, she easily get overwhelmed. She felt they were exaggerating over a simple favour, coming to see them off like this.

'Francis, that's enough. Don't keep your beautiful wife waiting!' It was the short farmer who pushed him away from the group of ladies. He got in the carriage and closed the door.

The vehicle finally moved. Francis along with Domi and Aniya shouted their goodbyes from the windows. Laija only wave at them. She really did not have the same enthusiasm as them.

However, as she looked at the townspeople who appreciated rice like she does, she hoped they will find prosperity.