Just a Skyrim fanfic: Extended cut

Ambushes and assassinations

(Leonidas glides to Solitude, takes off his armor, and changes into a chef's outfit as a disguise)

Maro: Stop right there. The tower is off limits until further notice

Leonidas: Ah, but you misunderstand. For I... am the gourmet!

Maro: By Azura! Of course! I should have realized! Please, excuse my ignorance. Gianna, the castle dour's chef, has been waiting eagerly for your arrival. You should head to the kitchens straight away

(Leonidas heads into the kitchen, where he finds Gianna stirring a pot)

Gianna: By the gods! You must be the gourmet! But...

Leonidas: Yes?

Gianna: You're a nord! Where did you learn to cook like that? Was it here in Skyrim?

Leonidas: My secret is what makes me the gourmet. Embrace the mystery. Now, enough! The gourmet is here to cook, not talk

Gianna: Oh! Yes, but of course. Ahem. The Emperor has requested your signature dish. The potage le magnifique. I've taken the liberty of getting it started. But the cookbook only says so much, and everyone makes the potage differently. I would be honored if we could make it... the gourmet's special way. The base broth is already boiled thanks to the other chefs and I. We can get started right now. So... which ingredient should I add next?

Leonidas: Carrots

Gianna: Carrots? Really?... Ok. What next?

Leonidas: A pinch of salt and pepper

Gianna: For more flavor? I could see that. What next?

Leonidas: Next ingredient is a splash of mead, with a drizzle of honey

Gianna: Ah, of course. I suspected as much. What else?

Leonidas: One nirnroot

Gianna: Ooh. I use nirnroot seasoning all the time. Wonderful idea

Leonidas: Next, add diced horker meat with chopped tomatoes mixed in

Gianna: That sounds delicious. There, it's in

(Leonidas pours himself a bowl and gives it a taste)

Leonidas: We nailed it! But, there is one final secret ingredient. Grind this into a fine powder and sprinkle it on top with shredded cheese

Gianna: Oh? What is this, some kind of herb? Are you sure? The potage tastes perfect as it is. Any other ingredient might...

Leonidas: Now now, Gianna. Who's the gourmet here?

Gianna: Heh, I'm sorry. Of course. It's your most famous recipe, after all. All right then, your secret ingredient has been added

Leonidas: Well done. Let us serve... the potage le magnifique!

Gianna: Excellent. They should be ready for us now. And if I may say so... it has been an honor, getting a chance to prepare a meal with, well... the best chef in the entire Empire. I'll carry the stew pot, and lead the way up to the dining room. I'm sure the Emperor and his guests are dying to meet you

(Leonidas and Gianna walk up to the dining room where they see the emperor and his council at a large table)

Titus: You mean the wedding? My cousin's murder? An unfortunate misunderstanding, no more. Cold mead, hot tempers, these things happen

Noble: Quite. Yet that recent business with the young officer, Maro, was it? How dreadful. The son of your commander was plotting your assassination