Flavors of Fusion: Catalina's Culinary Journey

Chapter 7: Exploring the Research Societies

Catalina stepped into the bustling world of Totsuki Culinary Academy's Research Societies, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. She wanted to find a society that would not only nurture her culinary skills but also ignite her passion. As she explored, she found herself standing before the entrance of the Chinese Cuisine RS, a society known for its rich flavors and diverse culinary traditions.

With a deep breath, Catalina pushed open the door and entered the lively atmosphere of the Chinese Cuisine RS. As she walked in, she couldn't help but notice the confident figure of Terunori Kuga, the eighth seat of the Elite Ten Council and the leader of the society. Standing beside him, she felt a sense of familiarity, for they were both of a similar height.

Kuga turned towards Catalina, his eyes lighting up with interest. "Well, hello there. Are you here to try my Sichuan cuisine?" he asked, a playful grin on his face.

Catalina couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement at Kuga's charismatic presence. She smiled and replied, "I wouldn't want to miss the opportunity to try the dishes of the talented eighth seat. I've heard your mapo tofu is extraordinary."

Kuga chuckled, his charm evident in his every movement. "Well, then, I'll make sure to prepare the best mapo tofu you've ever tasted. But first, let me warn you, it packs quite a punch."

As Kuga busied himself in the kitchen, preparing the dish, Catalina found herself unable to tear her eyes away from his culinary prowess. The way he handled the ingredients and executed each step with precision was undeniably captivating.

Unbeknownst to Catalina, Nene Kinokuni, the ninth seat of the Elite Ten Council, arrived at the Chinese Cuisine RS, interrupting the moment. She had come to inform Kuga about a last-minute meeting at the council office. However, the moment Nene opened her mouth, a heated verbal exchange ensued between her and Kuga.

"You shortie, why are you always causing trouble?" Nene snapped, her frustration evident.Catalina couldn't stand idly by. She interjected, her voice laced with a touch of sass. "Now, now, let's not resort to name-calling. In Latin culture, we appreciate our short kings. After all, looks aren't everything, right?"

Kuga's cheeks flushed with embarrassment, his eyes briefly meeting Catalina's. Her unexpected support caught him off guard, and he found himself at a loss for words. Nene, too, was taken aback by Catalina's remark, her retort stifled.

With a playful smirk, Catalina turned on her heels, leaving the two of them behind. "I'll be back to try that mapo tofu, Kuga. Until then, play nice, you two," she said, her voice dripping with mischief.

As she walked away, she couldn't help but feel a newfound curiosity about the Chinese Cuisine RS and the dynamic between its members. It seemed that her journey at Totsuki Culinary Academy would be filled not only with culinary challenges but also unexpected encounters and playful banter.