The Architect of Suffering

They laughed around tea before Zephyr joined them with heavy bags.

Lilia and Zane rolled their sleeves as they retrieved fresh vegetables and meat.

"Let me show you how great of a cook I became, big brother." Zane lunged behind the room's stove.

An inferno ignited in Lilia's eyes as she joined. "I've developed recipes for ten years. I'll definitely make you discover a wonderland of flavors!"

With those declarations, the stove's flames brightened their focused faces. The splashing of bubbling water and the sharp noise of slicing ingredients followed. Soon, the scent of garlic, salt, and pepper melded with the grilling meat and fresh vegetables.

Adam watched their precise movements before Muramasa uncorked a bottle of homemade sake and poured him a cup. The powerful smell and the soft traces of peach gripped his nose as he picked up the traditional porcelain cup and continued to talk with the others.