Chapter 38: The Culinary Revival Plan

Magic meditation was simple yet tedious. Sean had to constantly communicate with water elements, guiding them into his brow's magic core. Any distraction risked collapsing his mental channel, forcing him to restart.

Initially clumsy, Sean steadied his focus. Success brought a rush of power—his core swelled, and overflowing elements strengthened his body. As his perception sharpened, red fire, earthy yellow, and other magic element flickered into view. He balanced absorption, prioritizing water for dominance.

At 6 a.m., a servant interrupted. "Breakfast is ready, Your Highness. Captain Windsor and Steward Henry await."

Sean rubbed his throbbing brow. EXP: 110/200—5 EXP for an hour's meditation, half the rate of reading. Still, he pushed onward.

In the dining hall, Windsor eyed him suspiciously. Henry bowed: "Good morning, Your Highness. The c is almost complete, but some prices need verification."

"Excellent. Henry, stay here to finalize it. I'll visit the bazaar with John and Windsor."

Henry protested: "commoner district is dangerous! Let me handle it—"

Sean cut him off. "I read A Traveler's Guide to Lane. Many seasonings require personal tasting."

Henry relented. "As you command."

After breakfast, Sean led Windsor and John to the bazaar. The trio navigated stalls selling Monster meat,spices, and herbs. Sean stocked up on oil, salt, and sugar while hunting for substitutes for chili peppers, cumin, and Sichuan pepper.

At a spice vendor, he tasted a fiery red powder. "This is perfect! How much for a pouch?"

The vendor bowed. "For you, Lord Sean—free! Your generosity to refugees inspires us."

Sean insisted on paying, but the vendor refused. "Your Highness, take it as a gift."

By noon, Sean's satchel bulged with ingredients. "We'll make kebabs tonight," he announced. "Windsor, you're in charge of skewering."

Windsor groaned. "First music, now cooking? What's next—dancing?"

John laughed. "Careful, Windsor. His Highness might promote you to court jester!"

Back at the residence, Henry presented the purchase list. Sean reviewed it:

100 bulls;50 cows;200 chickens;Farming tools

- building materials And more.

"Perfect. We leave for Riverside tomorrow."

Henry paled. "So soon? But the mercenaries—"

"Flame Cross will meet us en route. Trust me, Henry."

That evening, Sean grilled kebabs with his new spices. The aroma drew servants and guards. Even Henry sampled one, eyes widening.

"Your Highness… this is incredible! What is this flavor?"

Sean smiled. "It's called 'hope.'"