Chapter 219: Now That’s A Dumpling
Leo watched the stall owner cooking his meals. The man’s focus caught his attention as he took it seriously causing him to think. ’He’s panicking, haven’t they learned that I’m not gonna hurt them for a mistake?’
He shrugged before pulling out some strong ale and started drinking while waiting for his food, making his stomach rumble. Following that, he turned to the crowds and started people watching.
Demons, Humans, Demi-Humans, and Elves mingled freely in the bustling town. Leo’s eyes widened, struck by the harmony among them. He was lost in his thoughts as the man commented. ’’My Lord, the spicy dumplings are ready. Please tell me what you think.’
’’Thank you,’’ he replied while taking the first bowl.
Leo settled onto a worn wooden bench in the heart of the bustling town, the aroma of spicy dumplings wafting from the steaming bowl in his hands. He picked up a dumpling, its golden skin glistening with a hint of chili oil, and took a cautious bite.
The flavors exploded in his mouth, savory meat, a kick of spice, and a subtle sweetness that danced on his tongue. His eyes widened, a grin spreading across his face as he savored the warmth spreading through him.
’’Now that’s a dumpling,’’ he muttered with a smile.
When the stall owner heard this, he beamed before getting back to cooking while placing bowls in front of him once it was done. He enjoyed the food and continued eating and drinking the ale.
By the time the older man was done, he was exhausted and needed to sit down, prompting Leo to cast a healing and revitalizing spell on him. Moments later, a stack of bowls was piling up beside him as he dove into another batch of dumplings.
The first was a fiery chili pork, its heat sparking a grin across his face. Next came a delicate shrimp and herb, bursting with fresh zest that made him hum in delight. He tried a mushroom and spice blend, earthy and bold, then a sweet vegetable mix that melted in his mouth.
Each dumpling was a revelation, and he couldn’t help but laugh between bites, utterly lost in the flavors. The old vendor, watching with bright eyes, clapped his hands together, his weathered face glowing with renewed vigor.