Pillars of Age

A Tengu's Craving

SOKU

"This one is just right, the salt and spices blend perfectly with the other ingredients," praised Soku, wiping the soup broth from his mouth. Gurmas, supervising the cauldron of boiling water, chuckled with satisfaction.

"Only three attempts, and the taste is already perfect. Master Gurmas, you are indeed a skilled chef," Soku complimented again.

"Thanks to your sharp nose for guessing those elite chefs' recipes!" Gurmas replied with a grin.

Soku glanced around the spacious kitchen, noting the large jars in the corners and the Tengu assistants standing ready near Gurmas. The kitchen buzzed with organized activity, an impressive display of culinary precision.

"Master Gurmas, it looks like you have everything you need here. A big kitchen, a supply of Forest Elf meat, and cooking assistants. You could open your own tavern!" Soku joked.

"It's true; it feels good when a group of Tengu officer joins in and acknowledges the quality of my dishes. Being appointed as a military chef at my age is an honour," Gurmas said, while casting a critical eye around the room.

"But?" Soku asked.

"As you can see, this kitchen is a former public kitchen, while other elite chefs are given the former kitchens of the city's leaders," Gurmas explained, still focused on his cauldron.

Soku laughed. "Just focus on improving your dishes, Master. The more people enjoy them, the less you'll worry about such trivialities!"

Gurmas did not smile; he was intently pouring soup into a wooden bowl, which he handed to Soku. "Try this one!"

Soku tasted it immediately, and his eyes lit up. "This is even better. Extraordinary, Master, I thought the previous one was already perfect," he praised, his eyes sparkling.

Gurmas laughed heartily. "For a Tengu who isn't allowed to eat meat, you are very enthusiastic!"

Soku joined in the laughter until he coughed. Gurmas then stopped laughing and stared at his fellow Tengu from another continent, who was drinking water.

"You are right; what I truly enjoy is cooking. Other matters should not cloud my mind," said the old Tengu.

Soku nodded, swallowing his water, then turned as a hooded and masked mortal entered the kitchen.

"Greetings..." Gurmas began, unsure how to address the figure.

"Master Soku. Follow me!" the figure ordered, ignoring Gurmas.

Soku stood and followed the figure out of the building until they were far enough from the mortals occupying the ruins of the former Forest Elf city.

"There are reports that some scouts and pathfinders have neither reported nor returned," the masked mortal said.

Soku nodded. "Finally!"

"Yes, finally, our target begin to act. The troops that prepared to ambush them already have been informed. Be prepared, Master Soku. Tomorrow morning, we set out to hunt!" the figure ordered.

"Alright, I will return to your camp before midnight," Soku replied.

The hooded and masked mortal nodded and walked away, leaving Soku. The red hand of Tengu ValMyra scratched his chin as he smiled, then he walked back into Gurmas' kitchen.

"It seems Master Soku finally received his task," greeted the old Tengu.

"How did you know?" asked Soku, somewhat surprised.

"Although you always look enthusiastic, I can see the boredom on your face," Gurmas answered.

"Ah, yes, indeed I was bored."