ZeroVeil's surprise

The smell of roasted meats and baked bread filled the air as ZeroVeil walked into the courtyard, where long tables were lined with dishes of all kinds. Rani, the host of the competition, stood proudly by the table, her dark hair tied back as she gestured to the food she had spent all morning preparing. The crowd buzzed with excitement, eager to see what the ZeroVeil would think of their local cuisine compared to his own food.

"Come, Lord ZeroVeil! Taste and tell us your thoughts," Rani said with a wide smile, waving him over.

ZeroVeil gave her a polite nod. "Of course," he replied, his tone calm but kind. He approached the table, taking a moment to scan the various dishes. Roasted chicken glazed with honey, thick stews with chunks of meat and vegetables, fresh loaves of bread, and a few bowls of corn. Everything looked hearty and well-prepared, but as he picked up the first piece of roasted chicken and took a bite, his internal monologue kicked in.