This Life, I Will Save The Duke (20 Chapters Left to Complete) - Chapter 53

“The judges are those of you who currently have a circled mark on your paper. Please come forward.”

Fifteen gentlemen stepped forward. They were all men because the qualification itself was granted exclusively to men. In the Empire, matters of this sort were entirely the right and responsibility of men.

Looking at those who had come forward, five of them were clearly supporting Kaius, and another five were backing Lantiano. Four others were impossible to read, and the last one wore his hat pulled so low that his face couldn’t be made out.

“All judges, please take your seats. We will now begin the competition.”

As the bell signaling the start rang out, Kaius called over Lemon and instructed him to go check on Ariel.

Damian took out his ingredients and repeatedly glanced behind him. Just as he was pulling out meat and vegetables, Ariel appeared.

“I’m his assistant chef. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I’m late—please let me through.”

Damian hurried over to Ariel, who was being blocked by a knight, and quickly spoke up. The knight, eyeing her suspiciously, finally stepped aside.

“Haa…h…”

Ariel calmed her breath, quickened from running, with several deep inhales.

“Shall we begin now?”

Ariel, who had been hiding behind Damian, climbed onto a footrest as long as the table he had prepared in advance.

***

Kaius paid little attention to dishes that appeared relatively flawless.

His gaze had drifted absently toward the cooking stations when his eyes caught a judge whose face was hidden beneath a deep hat. Next to Damian stood a woman.

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