The CrestWorld I : Stuck

Flavours

Vaneth, the name itself had a charm. I wonder what it means? His face, dimly lit by the fire showed dark red hair that covered most of his forehead and his right eye. But his left, glowed in the colour of bright green. He had a devilish grin, so charming that you would want to sell your soul for free. But even so, I felt something amiss that led me to keep my composure. 

"Thank you so much for saving my life. I am Luke", I said with a bow. I definitely don't remember my name, but I ain't sure yet that he will believe my stories. The word "Luke" is always written in the 'self' vision. Hence, I decided it will be a safe choice to use as my name.

"Well Luke. No need to be so humble. But if you really need to thank someone, then save it for the sleeping beauty in the corner."
In an instant, I turned my gaze to where his eyes pointed.

Laying there with her back to the wall, was a woman, sound asleep. I couldn't get a proper look in the dark, but she had long hair, and wore light clothes.

"She found you unconscious and badly infected with grawler poison. Then we brought you to our research base and treated you."

"Understood! But isn't this just a normal cave? What sort of research are you doing?"
"We both have come to this island for the purpose of gathering information. We just keep our luggage in this cave. It will be better if you don't pry anymore"
"I see", they seem to be good people. I don't have any memories. So, I need gather as much info as possible from them but I shouldn't pry into their work.
"Actually.." " Here, first comes food." I was interrupted with a bowl moving towards me. It was a wooden bowl, not that hot to hold. But the aroma it spread, just melted my soul. I sat down on the cave's floor and started devouring the meal. It was hot. I had to eat slowly. Hence, I properly savoured the different tastes and flavours in the food. The meat felt so soft and tender. The veggies had a rough texture and a different flavour. The nuts in the food brought in a mild sweetness and when I took a sip, the flavour in the broth, melted my face with ecstasy. I guess, this is the best cooking I have ever tasted, as I don't have any memories of having any cooked meals earlier.

I enjoyed the food for as long as it lasted, even took seconds. Mr. Vaneth also ate at the same time. He seemed to be glad seeing me eat so wholeheartedly. After I put my bowl down, I asked. "Mr. Vaneth, can you please tell me the name of this delicacy?" "There's no name for it. I just cooked random ingredients together." "That can't be possible Mr. Vaneth. It was so tasty, it must have some name!" "Maybe it has, but it's not within my knowledge. Anyways, can you not call me "Mr". We look about the same age." "Okay Vaneth, Thanks for the meal!"

Suddenly, I felt a change in the vibe of the place. Vaneth's face had a different look now. His left eye had stopped glowing and his face depicted the absolute absence of emotions. He spoke in a firm voice, "Good, now I have some questions for you. " I understood at once that it's time to get serious. "Go ahead", I replied.

"What horrible crime did you commit to have been exiled to 'The Forsaken Isle'?"