Flavors of Fusion: Catalina's Culinary Journey

Chapter 3: The Transfer Exam and Unexpected Bonds

On Catalina's fifteenth birthday, a special invitation arrived, beckoning her to participate in the transfer exam at Totsuki Culinary Academy. Filled with a mix of excitement and nerves, she prepared herself for the challenges that awaited her. But before she embarked on this new chapter of her culinary journey, there was someone important she needed to meet.

A few days before the exam, Catalina's parents and Joichiro Yukihira orchestrated a meeting between her and Soma. As soon as they laid eyes on each other, there was an instant connection, a sibling-like bond that transcended words. They decided to celebrate their meeting in their usual way—with a food war battle.

In a makeshift kitchen, Catalina and Soma faced off, each showcasing their unique cooking styles. They danced around each other, their knives clashing with precision and passion. The battle raged on, with each of them claiming victories in different rounds, laughter filling the air.Between battles, Soma eagerly taught Catalina more Japanese, helping her expand her language skills beyond just greetings. In return, she shared her knowledge of Latin cuisine and Spanish language, teaching him the vibrant flavors of her culture. They stumbled through Spanish lessons, laughter erupting as Soma attempted to mimic her salsa dance moves.

In another scene, they found themselves sitting cross-legged on the floor, engrossed in their anime fandom. Catalina fangirled over Naruto, while Soma passionately raved about Jujutsu Kaisen. They exchanged recommendations and theories, their enthusiasm infectious.

The day of the transfer exam arrived, and Catalina and Soma found themselves momentarily separated amidst the bustling crowd. As she searched for her newfound friend, she caught glimpses of other familiar faces. Akira sniffed cinnamon under a tree, his senses sharp as ever. Ryo and Alice stood together, with Ryo's gaze fixated on Catalina, intrigued by her presence. The Aldini brothers walked by, Isami's smile warming her heart, while Takumi's bashful reaction made her chuckle. And there was Megumi, offering a comforting smile to the new potential student.

Later on, as they conversed with a male student about Erina, they discovered her reputation as the "God's Tongue" from the prestigious Nakiri family. The student's descriptions left them both intrigued. But Catalina couldn't resist interjecting, "Well, Soma and I are always up for a challenge. Let's see if we can surprise her taste buds with our creations."

Catalina decided to showcase her specialty and her newfound love for Japanese cuisine in her dish for the exam. Drawing inspiration from Colombia, she prepared an "arepa con huevos," a traditional dish that featured a crispy cornmeal pancake filled with a perfectly cooked egg. But she added her own twist, fusing it with Japanese ingredients, infusing the dish with unique flavors and textures.

In the kitchen, she moved with grace and confidence, her knife skills impeccable. She seasoned the dough with a blend of Latin spices, mixed in Japanese ingredients like soy sauce and bonito flakes, and expertly fried the arepa until it turned golden and crisp. As she cracked the egg onto the sizzling hot surface, the yolk oozed, creating a rich and velvety center. The aroma of the dish filled the air, blending the essence of both cultures.

At the same time, Erina Nakiri, the ever-discerning judge, observed Catalina's preparations with skepticism. Erina couldn't understand how someone from a humble background could create such a dish that defied traditional culinary boundaries. Catalina's determination to challenge Erina's preconceived notions fueled her, and she approached Erina with a fiery resolve.

With her dish ready, Catalina stood before Erina Nakiri, her fiery determination burning in her eyes. She couldn't help but notice the disdainful expression on Erina's face, which only fueled her resolve to prove her wrong.

The tension between Catalina and Erina remained, with Erina making snide remarks about Catalina's accent in Japanese. Catalina, unyielding, replied, "My accent may not be perfect, but my passion for food speaks louder than any language barrier."

Erina's initial sneer turned into a curious look as Catalina unveiled her dish—an exquisite fusion of Latin and Japanese flavors. As she presented her "arepa con huevos" with confidence, the fragrant aroma filled the room, enticing even the most discerning palates.

Erina took a bite, and her face transformed. Her eyes widened, and her body shivered in delight. A momentary foodgasm took hold of her, confirming the undeniable deliciousness of Catalina's creation. However, her pride and arrogance couldn't allow her to admit her admiration.
Catalina's eyes narrowed, her spirit undeterred. She responded with a sassy smile, "Well, Chef Erina, not everyone can appreciate the diverse flavors that come from embracing different culinary traditions. It's a shame you can't see beyond your own limited perspective."

Hisako, interjected with indignation, chastising Catalina for her lack of respect and using the wrong honorifics to address Erina so casually. 

Undeterred, Catalina retorted with a hint of sass, "Well, sorry for not using the proper honorifics, 'Ms. Erina.' But I believe respect is earned, not demanded, based on birthright or title alone."

However, before the tension escalated further, Soma intervened with his carefree yet caring demeanor.

"Hey guys, Let's not get all serious and intense. So what do you think Erina, they're delicious right?" Soma's words diffused the tension.

With a cold voice, Erina remarked, "Your dish is disgusting! You both fail. They lack the refinement befitting Totsuki Academy."

Before the situation escalated further, Hisako quickly guided her away, leaving Catalina and Soma.