Chapter 416 - 415: Discerning Levels… From Taste?
Dozens of dishes were brought in by the orc chefs, the long table quickly filling with the bounty from the Grand Hunt. Each dish had been crafted with care, not only to showcase the flavor of the beasts they were made from, but also to highlight the skill of the chefs who put their hearts into these dishes.
While meat dominated the table— either roasted, grilled, stewed, or smoked—it wasn’t the only thing present. Vegetables both native and imported, fragrant fruits, and a dazzling array of spices and garnishes added vibrant color and aroma to every plate. Platters shimmered with expertly glazed meats, skewers sizzled atop stones, and thick soups simmered in heated cauldrons at the ends of the table.
But despite the feast laid before them, no one moved to eat.
Sol, Reena, Thorwyn, and Amber glanced around, noticing that not a single orc had reached for the food. Though tempting smells wafted in the air, even the younger orcs remained seated, their gazes subtly shifting toward the head of the table.
Kuruck finally stood, scanning the dishes before him. He then glanced at Sol and the other guests, who appeared unsure of what to do, and explained, not wanting to leave them in the dark.
"Because this isn’t a normal dinner, but a Grand Hunt, it’s time to assess what my children have brought back. Once I am done, we can then eat."
He stepped forward and served himself a small cut from the plate nearest to him, a white slice of meat with a crisp, browned exterior and subtle steam still rising from its center. The aroma was mild but rich, with hints of pepper and wild herbs.
"A Large Winter Rabbit. Whose prize is this?"
It was simple for Kuruck to tell at a glance what meat he was looking at and he asked for the one who brought it.