Chapter 13

In the blue bar, Muffy leads the discussion among the wives of Forget-Me-Not Valley, updating them on the latest news around the village. With cups of tea and plates of sweets scattered across the table, the women lean in attentively, their voices mingling in animated conversation. Celia nods thoughtfully at Muffy's updates, while Naomi scribbles notes in her journal, her brow furrowed in concentration. Leila listens intently, her eyes sparkling with interest. Flora trying her best to stay awake, her job in the mines draining her stamina. Keira listening with interest as she learns more about married life in modern times.

Just as the meeting is about to wrap up, Muffy clears her throat, capturing the attention of the group. With a mischievous glint in her eye, she announces, "Guess what, girls! Thanks to our generous husbands, we have enough money to pay for cooking lessons from Ruby starting tomorrow. So, get ready, because we're going to start meeting to the inn and take cooking lessons together tomorrow afternoon!"

The women in the bar exchange a myriad of reactions to Muffy's announcement, their faces reflecting a range of emotions from excitement to skepticism. Some eagerly anticipate the opportunity to expand their culinary repertoire, while others dread the thought of spending more time in the kitchen. Amidst the conflicting sentiments, there's a palpable sense of curiosity about what the cooking classes will entail.

Celia raises her hand tentatively, her brow furrowed in confusion. "Um, Muffy, I already know how to cook. Why do I need to take cooking classes?" she queries, voicing the concern that lingers in the minds of several others.

Muffy's cheerful smile doesn't waver as she responds, "There's nothing wrong with getting better at using a knife, Celia. You know what they say, a happy home makes for a happy life."

Nami, however, casts a skeptical glare at Muffy, her tone laced with sarcasm. "Let me guess, Muffy. This whole cooking class idea is secretly meant for you, isn't it? You're just too embarrassed to admit that you can't cook, and you want us to keep you company."

Muffy laughs nervously, attempting to deflect Nami's accusation. "Don't be silly Nami. I would never do something like that. But honestly, we're going to be doing this for the good of our families and the village. Just imagine us competing in the next cooking festival, and one of us actually wins! It could put Forget-Me-Not Valley on the map!"

Despite the groans and eye rolls that follow Muffy's words, the women ultimately decide to go along with her plan. While they may have reservations about the true intentions behind the cooking classes, they can't deny that the prospect of learning together promises an enjoyable and bonding experience. With a collective shrug and a shared sense of camaraderie, they agree to embark on this culinary adventure, eager to see where it will lead.

Keira's mind whirls with uncertainty as she contemplates the prospect of learning to cook. Raised in the opulence of the Hanabishi kingdom, she was shielded from the mundane tasks of daily life, her every need attended to by a small collection of servants. The idea of cooking, let alone performing any household chores, is entirely foreign to her.

Her thoughts drift back to her parents, the king and queen of the Hanabishi clan, and she can almost hear their disapproving voices echoing in her mind. Would they scoff at the notion of their daughter stooping to such menial tasks? Would they see it as a betrayal of her royal heritage?

Yet, as she looks around at the other wives in the bar, chatting animatedly about the upcoming cooking classes, a pang of longing tugs at her heart. She envies their camaraderie, their easy laughter, and their shared experiences. Is this sense of belonging worth sacrificing her pride and status?

Back at the farm, the thoughts of the cooking class continues to haunt her as she eats her meal with Mark. Lost in her thoughts, Keira's gaze drifts to the framed picture of her parents hanging above the television in her home. For a fleeting moment, she imagines their stern expressions softening with pride, their eyes twinkling with approval. Perhaps, in their hearts, they would understand her desire to embrace the customs of her new community, to forge connections and build a life alongside her fellow villagers.

As Mark notices Keira's wandering gaze, curiosity piques his interest. "Is everything alright, Keira? You seem distracted," he inquires, concern lacing his voice.

Returning her attention to Mark, Keira hesitates before answering, her thoughts still lingering on the upcoming cooking class with Muffy's club. "I was just thinking about the cooking class," she admits, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "How do you feel about me learning how to cook? Do you believe that royalty should do common housework?"

Mark's brow furrows in thoughtful contemplation. "Oh, I remember Muffy mentioning that the other day," he recalls. "As for learning to cook, it's entirely up to you. But personally, I think it could be a good thing for you. Cooking can be fun, and who knows? You might even discover some new favorite dishes, maybe even learn to make those Konohana specialties."

Keira taps her chin with her chopsticks, lost in a swirl of imagination. She envisions herself mastering various recipes, exploring new flavors, and broadening her culinary repertoire. The idea of diversifying her diet beyond her usual instant curry dishes excites her, sparking a newfound sense of curiosity and adventure.

Perhaps, she thinks to herself, she could even ask Nori for some of her family's recipes, forging a deeper connection with her Hanabishi heritage. And as she considers the prospect of fitting in with the other wives in the valley, she sees the cooking class as an opportunity to break free from her role as a passive observer and actively engage in conversations and activities.

With a determined nod, Keira resolves to give the cooking class a try, embracing the challenge with newfound enthusiasm. As she looks to Mark, she sees a glimmer of pride in his eyes, and she knows that, together, they can navigate this new adventure and emerge stronger than ever.

The next afternoon, excitement fills the air as the six women gather in the inn's kitchen, eager to embark on their culinary journey under Ruby's guidance. With aprons tied securely around their waists and sleeves rolled up, they stand ready to test their skills and learn something new.

As Keira gazes at the apron laid out before her, a perplexed expression crosses her features. The concept of this simple garment eludes her—what purpose could it possibly serve? It's merely a swath of fabric, designed to be looped around her neck and secured at her back. Despite her bewilderment, she watches the other women with keen interest, noting their practiced movements as they effortlessly don their own aprons.

With a hesitant hand, she reaches for the apron, fingers tracing the smooth material as she tentatively maneuvers it into place. As the fabric settles against her frame, she can't help but feel a sense of camaraderie with the other women, united by this small but symbolic gesture. Though she may not fully grasp the utility of the apron, she is determined to embrace this new experience with an open mind and a willing spirit.

Ruby's cheerful voice cuts through the anticipation as she addresses the group. "Alright, ladies, I'll be tending to some guests for a bit," she begins, her tone brimming with enthusiasm. "In the meantime, I want each of you to showcase your best dish. This will help me learn your cooking abilities and customize our lessons accordingly. The kitchen is yours, so get creative and have fun with it. I'll be back to judge your creations later on!"

With a nod of encouragement from Ruby, the women disperse throughout the kitchen, each claiming their own workstation and gathering ingredients for their chosen recipes. Muffy does her best at gathering whatever she can find to try to make something that could mask her lack of culinary skills. Meanwhile, Celia decides to prepare a hearty chicken noodle soup, infused with love and warmth, reminiscent of the comforting embrace of a wife and mother. Naomi, known for her adventurous spirit, selects a vibrant array of fresh produce to whip up a mouthwatering and crisp salad, a dish bursting with healthy flavors. Flora gathers the ingredients to make curried rice, a dish she regularly makes and serves her husband. Leila rushes out the inn and jumps into the ocean, only returning to the inn with an armful of fish that she had caught.

And then there's Keira, the newcomer to the world of cooking, her mind buzzing with uncertainty and anticipation. Unsure of where to begin, she hesitates before settling on a box of instant curry. Copying how Mark would prepare the curry, she boils some water and dumps the mix into the pot until the mixture is thick enough to serve on a plate.

After several hours of culinary exploration, Ruby returns to the kitchen to assess the fruits of the women's labor. Her eyes light up as she sees their plates arranged neatly on the counter, each dish an example of their efforts at home. With a warm smile, she begins her evaluations, starting with Celia's aromatic chicken noodle soup.

The scent of simmering broth fills the air as Ruby takes a delicate sip, allowing the flavors to dance on her palate. She nods appreciatively, impressed by the depth of flavor and the thoughtful addition of fish paste—a surprising twist that elevates the humble dish. "Very good, Celia," Ruby remarks, her tone sincere. "Your attention to detail is amazing, and the fish paste adds a delightful richness to the soup. I believe you're more than ready for the advanced lesson."

Celia's face lights up with a mixture of pride and excitement at Ruby's words. "Thank you, Ruby. I'm eager to learn more recipes for my family."

Ruby's attention then turns to Nami, who proudly presents her vibrant salad—a mosaic of colors and textures that beckons with freshness. Ruby's discerning gaze scans the bowl, noting the pristine condition of each meticulously cleaned and prepared vegetable.

With a thoughtful nod, Ruby delicately plucks a forkful of the salad, savoring the crispness of the greens and the burst of flavor from the assorted vegetables. "Very nice, Nami," she commends, a smile playing on her lips. "The vegetables are crunchy and fresh, your attention to detail is on point."

Nami beams with pride at Ruby's praise, her eyes sparkling with satisfaction. "Thank you," she responds, her voice tinged with enthusiasm. "Gustafa is a vegetarian, so it's important for me to make sure his salads are perfect after his performances."

Ruby nods in understanding, impressed by Nami's dedication to her partner's dietary preferences. "I see," she acknowledges. "Your cooking skills are certainly impressive. However, I believe there's room for growth. I'll have to give you some intermediate lessons. Working on crafting a delicious, healthy vegan dressing will send your salads to the moon."

Nami's expression brightens at the prospect of further honing her skills, eager to embark on the next stage of her culinary skills. As Muffy steps forward to present her dish, the air thickens with anticipation, only to dissipate into awkward silence as Ruby's eyes fall upon the charred lump before her. It's a far cry from anything resembling a culinary creation; instead, it looks like a relic salvaged from the depths of a long-forgotten barbecue pit.

Ruby's brow furrows in bemusement as she gingerly picks up a piece of the charcoal-like substance, her expression; a mix of curiosity and disgust. "What happened here?" she inquires, her tone laced with gentle incredulity.

Muffy's laughter rings out nervously as she attempts to explain, "Well, this was supposed to be vegetable stew, but it didn't quite turn out as planned. Nevertheless, give it a try. I'm sure it doesn't taste as bad as it looks."

Ruby musters a sympathetic smile, though her awkward chuckle betray her hints of amusement. "Perhaps another time. Looks like we're going to need to go over the basics," she responds diplomatically, already mentally making plans to discreetly dispose of the culinary catastrophe. With quick and discreet steps, she retreats to the safety of the kitchen's depths, where the failed dish finds its final resting place in the trash bin.

Nami's laughter bubbles forth irrepressibly at Muffy's culinary misadventure, her teasing lighthearted yet tinged with playful mockery. "I knew you can't cook!" she quips, unable to resist the opportunity to tease her friend.

Muffy rolls her eyes in mock exasperation, "Oh, shut up Nami," she retorts. "I'm doing my best here, you know." Despite the setback, Muffy's spirits remain undaunted, her determination to improve her cooking skills for her husband and newborn daughter.

"Okay, who's next?" asks Ruby once she joins the rest of the ladies. As Ruby's gaze shifts to Flora, the anticipation in the room palpable, Flora steps forward, her heart aflutter with a mix of nerves and excitement. With a confident flourish, she presents her dish: a fragrant, steaming bowl of curried rice, each grain glistening with the promise of flavorful spices and tender, cooked vegetables. As the aroma wafts through the air, Flora can't help but feel a surge of pride in her culinary creation. Eagerly, Flora watches as Ruby takes a spoonful of the rice and curry, her senses tingling with anticipation as she awaits the verdict. With each passing moment, Flora's anticipation grows, her heart pounding in her chest.

"It's quite good," Ruby pronounces, her tone measured yet encouraging. "But the spices need a bit more balance. You've certainly grasped the basics, though."

Flora's spirits soar at Ruby's words, a sense of relief washing over her as she absorbs the feedback. Though there's room for improvement, she takes solace in the knowledge that she's on the right track. Ruby continues, "I'll pair you up with Nami. Since you two are around the same level, you two can work together to get better."

Flora approaches Nami, sharing a celebratory high five, their shared enthusiasm for improving their cooking skills serving as a bond that will unite them further. As they prepare to embark on this culinary journey together, Flora can't help but feel a sense of excitement for the adventures that lie ahead.

Next, Ruby approaches Leia curious as to what culinary dishes a mermaid can present. As Ruby gets close, her senses get assaulted by the pungent odor of raw fish emanating from the bowl before Leia. With a furrowed brow, she peers inside, only to be met with the sight of several fish, their scales glinting in the light as they wriggle and squirm, desperate to escape their fate.

Her eyes twitch in disbelief, Ruby can't help but recoil slightly, her astonishment evident as she turns to Leia. "Um, Leia? You forgot to cook these," she remarks, her voice tinged with incredulity.

Leia, however, seems unfazed by Ruby's reaction as she explains, "Don't be silly, mermaids can't cook! We normally live underwater, and there are no stoves, let alone fire down there. My son and I just eat fish raw."

Ruby's eyebrows shoot up in surprise at Leia's revelation, her mind struggling to comprehend the unconventional dietary habits of a mermaid. "But what about your husband?" she inquires, her curiosity piqued.

"Oh, Daryl cooks for himself. He's quite good at it too," she assures Ruby, her tone matter-of-fact.

"I see," Ruby murmurs, her expression still tinged with disbelief. "Well, I don't think I have any other choice but to pair you up with Muffy. Perhaps you two can learn to cook together."

Leia nods in agreement, her smile unfazed as she joins Muffy, who lets out a defeated groan at the prospect of having to navigate the culinary world alongside Leia. As they prepare to embark on this unlikely culinary journey together, Muffy can't help but resign herself to the fact that her cooking skills may be as limited as a mermaid's ability to prepare a meal.

As Ruby approaches Keira's station, she can't help but notice the simplicity of the dish before her—a lone glob of curry resting on a plain white plate, devoid of any accompanying rice, noodles, or vegetables. Her brow furrows in confusion as she gestures toward the dish and asks, "What am I looking at here?"

Keira's response is hesitant, her voice tinged with a hint of embarrassment. "It's instant curry. My husband makes it for me every day. It's the only thing I enjoy eating other than Hanabishi cuisine."

Ruby's expression softens as she listens to Keira's explanation, understanding dawning in her eyes. "But where's the rice? It's just curry, nothing else," she observes gently.

Keira's gaze drops to her fidgeting fingers, a shadow crossing her features as she admits, "Well, I don't know how to cook anything else. I just copy what my husband does, but rice is too hard for me. I'm sorry."

Ruby lets out a sympathetic sigh, her heart going out to Keira as she realizes the extent of her culinary inexperience. She should have anticipated that a princess, raised in the lap of a castle filled with servants, Keira would not possess the same domestic skills as the other people. Nevertheless, she resolves to give Keira's dish a fair chance, scooping up a spoonful of curry and bringing it to her lips.

As the first spoonful of curry touches her palate, Ruby braces herself for disappointment, expecting nothing more than a bland and uninspired taste. However, as the curry unfold across her taste buds, she's taken aback by the surprising depth of the dish. While it may not boast the complex medley of spices found in homemade curry, there's a certain finesse to the preparation that catches Ruby off guard.

The texture is thick but smooth, and there's no hint of burning or undercooking —just a perfectly executed instant curry that's entirely edible on its own. Despite the absence of accompanying sides, the dish stands confidently on its own, a surprising nod to Keira's innate talent behind her lack of experience.

As Ruby sets down her spoon, a sense of admiration washes over her. While Keira may lack formal cooking experience, her ability to boil water and follow directions with ease speaks volumes about her natural aptitude—a skill that sets her apart from the likes of Muffy and Leia. With the proper guidance and training, Ruby feels that there's no telling how well Keira's cooking skills could develop in the kitchen. She only needs to think of a recipe that could unlock this hidden talent. It doesn't take long before she comes up with an idea.

Ruby's smile radiates warmth as she addresses Keira, her tone brimming with encouragement. "Keira, would you like to learn how to make homemade curry?"

Keira's eyes widen with a glimmer of hope, her voice tinged with anticipation. "You think I can?"

"Of course!" Ruby responds, her cheerfulness infectious. "In fact, I think you will be able to eventually learn some advanced curry recipes such as rainbow curry, finest curry, and even ultimate curry!"

Keira's heart skips a beat at the mention of such exquisite dishes. The monotony of instant curry has left her longing for culinary diversity, and the prospect of learning how to make these refined recipes herself fills her with a sense of exhilaration. With a graceful bow, she expresses her gratitude to Ruby. "Thank you, Lady Ruby. I will work hard learning how to make real curry."

As the cooking class comes to an end, Ruby dismisses the women, allowing them to return home rest for the next class coming tomorrow. With smiles on their faces, the six women step out of the inn, chatting animatedly about their results and plans for the upcoming classes.

Keira joins in the conversation, her excitement palpable as she eagerly anticipates learning the art of cooking from Ruby. The prospect of mastering different variations of curry fills her with a sense of anticipation and newfound enthusiasm. As they walk home together, Keira feels a sense of camaraderie for the first time with her fellow villagers, grateful for the opportunity to embark on this journey alongside them.

The following day arrives, and the women gather once again at the inn, ready for their first day of instruction in the art of cooking. Ruby welcomes them warmly and begins to assign each woman a recipe to learn, taking into account their individual skill levels and interests.

Muffy and Leia are paired together and tasked with the basic yet essential skill of making rice. However, both women find themselves struggling with this seemingly simple task. Muffy's lack of cooking prowess becomes evident as she battles with controlling the temperature of the boiling water, causing it to repeatedly overflow. Leia, on the other hand, finds amusement in Muffy's struggles, unable to contain her laughter at the sight. Muffy grunts at her, complaining that she is not helping her situation.

Meanwhile, Flora and Nami are assigned the challenge of making stir-fried rice, a recipe that requires a delicate balance of sauces and spices. Despite working independently, the two women exchange tips and advice, each helping the other to refine their culinary skills and grow in confidence.

Celia is given the opportunity to tackle a more advanced recipe: risotto. With its complex flavors and techniques, risotto proves to be a formidable challenge. However, Celia rises to the occasion, demonstrating a mastery of the recipe that impresses Ruby. Her skill and dedication leave Ruby hopeful that Celia will continue to excel and expand her culinary repertoire in the days to come.

Meanwhile at Keira's station, she gazes down at herself bewildered at the array of protective clothing adorning her frame. In addition to the apron she wore the previous day, she now finds herself outfitted with even more gear. A large, billowing hair sack envelops her long black floor length hair, ensuring that not a single strand will find its way into the food or flame. The sleeves of her yukata are also securely bound to her torso, preventing them from accidentally trailing through flames or getting splattered in ingredients.

Though the extra layers of fabric leave her feeling somewhat constrained, Ruby assures her that these precautions are essential for maintaining safety and hygiene in the kitchen. Keira nods in understanding, albeit reluctantly, as she resigns herself to the necessity of these added measures. After all, if it means learning the art of cooking, she is more than willing to endure a bit of discomfort along the way.

As soon as it is Keira's turn for instructions, Ruby approaches her with an armful of ingredients. Keira takes her place at the chopping block, a nervous flutter dances in her chest. She watches intently as Ruby arranges an assortment of vibrant vegetables before her, each one a colorful canvas waiting to be transformed. Wiping a bead of sweat from her forehead, Ruby gestures toward the array and says, "Okay, Keira, it's time to practice chopping the vegetables. Why don't you show me how you would do it?"

Keira nods, her determination masking the uncertainty swirling within her. Though she lacks formal training in cooking, she knows the basic concept of chopping heads cleanly off necks of her opponents in self defense. Feeling that the two ideas are related, Keira does what she was trained to do. With a steady hand, she draws her knife from her yukata and unsheathes it, her movements deliberate and precise. As Ruby quickly steps back away from danger, Keira takes a deep breath and brings the blade down with force, slicing through the ingredients and even the wooden chopping block itself in half.

The room falls into stunned silence as everyone watches in shock, their eyes widening in disbelief at the unexpected display of strength despite her small petite size. Keira herself seems momentarily taken aback by the sheer power behind her actions. After a beat of silence, she re-sheathes her blade and looks to Ruby with a hopeful expression, asking tentatively, "Was that okay?"

Ruby lets out a nervous chuckle, her smile tinged with bemusement as she surveys the aftermath of Keira's handiwork. "Well," she begins, struggling to find the right words as she looks at the cutting board cut in half, "it's certainly… impressive. But let's put the deadly weapon away. We should stick to using this knife instead." With a gentle gesture, she offers Keira a cooking knife, hoping to avoid any further unintentional destruction in the kitchen.

Keira carefully takes the offered knife, her fingers tracing along the smooth surface of the blade. It feels strangely delicate in her hand, a stark contrast to the sturdy weapons she's accustomed to wielding. With a curious glint in her eye, she gives the knife a few experimental swings, each movement accompanied by a faint whooshing sound that sends her companions scattering for cover.

Setting the knife down gently, Keira furrows her brow in confusion. "What a strange weapon," she muses aloud. "It seems sharp enough, but I fear it would shatter against the armor of my foes."

Ruby stifles a laugh, shaking her head at Keira's misconception. "Oh, Keira, that's not a weapon," she explains patiently. "It's a cooking tool—a chef's knife, to be exact. Here, let me show you how to use it properly."

With practiced skill, Ruby takes the knife and demonstrates the proper technique for chopping vegetables, her movements fluid and precise. Her fingers curl in at the base of the knife as it slices through the vegetables with effortless grace. Ruby explains that no force should be applied—just the weight of the knife and the sharpness of the blade are enough to chop them perfectly.

As she deftly slices through a carrot with ease, Keira watches with rapt attention, absorbing every detail of Ruby's demonstration. The rhythmic sound of the knife meeting the cutting board fills the air, a symphony of culinary mastery that captivates Keira's senses.

Encouraged by Ruby's guidance, Keira accepts the knife when it's passed to her, her grip tentative yet determined. With each careful motion, she follows Ruby's instructions, ensuring her fingers remain safely tucked away as she maneuvers the blade through the vegetables.

As Keira gains confidence, her movements become more quick and fluid, the once unfamiliar task gradually transforming into a familiar rhythm. The sound of the knife slicing through the crisp vegetables resonates with a satisfying crunch, filling Keira with a sense of accomplishment and pride.

With each slice, Keira feels herself growing more comfortable with the unfamiliar tool, her apprehension giving way to a newfound sense of confidence. As she continues to chop, she can't help but marvel at the simple yet profound joy of cooking something with her own hands—a skill she never imagined she'd possess.

After putting the vegetables into a pot with water, Ruby turns the heat on and moves on to the next part of the lesson. Using another pot, Ruby begins instructing Keira on how to make curry from scratch. With precise measurements, she adds water to the pot and demonstrates how to use measuring cups to add ingredients such as curry powder, flour, salt, and sauces. Keira watches intently, absorbing every detail as Ruby emphasizes the importance of using the correct proportions to achieve a fragrant and smooth curry paste.

As the mixture simmers, Ruby unveils the secret ingredient that elevates the curry to new heights: colored grasses. With careful consideration, she explains to Keira that each color of grass imparts a distinct flavor profile to the curry. Darker grasses can add earthy or spicy notes, while lighter ones offer a more mellow or sweet taste. Ruby demonstrates how different combinations of colored grasses can be used to create unique and tantalizing flavors.

Keira listens attentively, her curiosity piqued by the prospect of experimenting with these colorful additions. With each new revelation, she feels a sense of excitement building within her, eager to explore the endless possibilities of curry-making. As the aroma of the simmering curry fills the air, Keira can't help but imagine the rich and complex flavors that await her taste buds—a culinary adventure unlike any she's experienced. Chopping the colored grasses finely, Ruby expertly scoops up the herbs and adds them to the simmering curry. The kitchen fills with a tantalizing aroma that envelops Keira's senses, stirring her anticipation for the final dish. With practiced precision, Ruby then takes a ladle and a small tasting plate, scooping up a portion of the curry and pouring it onto the plate. After she samples the curry, Ruby nods, feeling that the curry is coming together nicely.

"What are you doing?" Keira asks, her curiosity piqued by Ruby's actions.

"I'm sampling the curry to make sure we've added the right amount of ingredients," Ruby explains with a smile. "Here, give it a try."

Following Ruby's lead, Keira tentatively takes the ladle, a tool she's never encountered before, and carefully scoops up a small amount of curry. Pouring it onto the sampling plate, she takes a hesitant sip. Her taste buds instantly awakens by the explosion of flavors. A delighted expression crosses her face as she savors the rich and aromatic blend, her excitement growing with each passing moment.

As Ruby begins to teach Keira the art of making rice, she emphasizes the crucial balance between rice and water. Observing Ruby's methodical approach, Keira learns the importance of washing the rice thoroughly to remove any excess starch, a step that ensures the grains cook evenly and retain their fluffy texture.

With a gentle yet precise touch, Ruby demonstrates the process, pouring the washed grains of rice into a pot of boiling water. Keira watches intently, her curiosity piqued by the seemingly simple yet meticulous steps involved. With careful attention, Ruby stirs the rice, ensuring each grain is fully submerged in the boiling water. She then adds a touch of oil and salt to make the perfect rice for the curry.

As the kitchen fills with the comforting aroma of steaming rice, Keira's fascination grows, her eagerness to master this fundamental skill driving her focus. With Ruby's patient guidance, she begins to grasp the intricacies of rice preparation, understanding the delicate balance required to achieve the perfect consistency.

With bated breath, Keira watches as Ruby expertly plates the steaming rice, followed by a generous ladleful of aromatic curry and vegetables. The sight alone makes Keira's mouth water, anticipation building with each passing second. As the fragrant steam rises, enveloping the kitchen in a tantalizing aroma, Keira can hardly contain her excitement.

Finally, the moment arrives as Ruby presents the curry before Keira. Without hesitation, Keira delicately picks up her chopsticks, her hands trembling with eagerness. With a gentle pinch, she lifts a mouthful of rice, generously coated in the rich, savory curry sauce and colorful vegetables.

As the flavors explode on her palate, Keira's senses are overwhelmed by the exquisite blend of spices, the subtle sweetness of the vegetables, and the comforting warmth of the perfectly cooked rice. Each bite is a symphony of taste, transporting her to a realm of culinary delight she had never before experienced. Not even back in the time she lived in the castle did food taste this great. She can't wait to learn how to make it herself without help.

In that moment, Keira realizes the true magic of cooking – the ability to create something extraordinary from the simplest of ingredients, to transform a humble meal into a culinary masterpiece that delights the senses and nourishes the soul. With a newfound passion ignited within her, Keira savors every mouthful, eager to embark on her journey of culinary discovery with boundless enthusiasm and unexplored determination.

The following day arrives, and the women are entrusted with the task of preparing their dishes independently. Keira approaches the prep table with determination, recalling the instructions imparted by Ruby during the previous day.

With focused concentration, Keira meticulously chops the vegetables, measures out the ingredients, and tends to the simmering pot of curry with careful attention. Yet, despite her best efforts, when the food is finally ready, the outcome is disappointing. The curry lacks the harmonious blend of flavors and aromatic spices that had tantalized their senses the day before. Instead, it is bitter and thin, a far cry from the dish she had hoped to create.

When Ruby comes by to check on her progress, she finds Keira disheartened by her culinary mishap. With a sympathetic smile, Ruby tastes the curry and quickly identifies the source of the problem. Keira had miscalculated the proportions of the ingredients, resulting in an imbalance that had thrown off the curry's flavor profile.

Taking Keira under her wing once again, Ruby offers gentle guidance, emphasizing the importance of exact measurements and careful attention to detail. She encourages Keira to use her measuring cups diligently, ensuring that each ingredient is added in the correct quantity to achieve the desired outcome.

With Ruby's advice fresh in her mind, Keira resolves to learn from her mistakes and strive for improvement in the days ahead. Though setbacks are inevitable on the journey to mastering the art of cooking, Keira remains determined to hone her skills and unlock the secrets of creating delicious meals that will delight the senses and bring joy to those she shares them with.

The following day, Keira approaches the challenge with greater determination, willing to improve upon her previous attempt at making curry. With Ruby's words of encouragement echoing in her mind, she meticulously follows each step of the recipe, mindful of the small mistakes that had tripped her up before.

As she stirs the pot of simmering curry, Keira can't help but feel a sense of anticipation tinged with nervousness. Will her efforts yield the same delectable results as Ruby's masterful cooking?

Finally, the moment of truth arrives. She tastes the curry, and finds it rather tasty. Not as well made as Ruby, it is definitely much more palatable than her previous attempt. As Keira carefully ladles the fragrant curry onto bowls of rice. With trembling hands, she offers a plate to each of her friends, her heart pounding with anticipation. To her delight and relief, the response is overwhelmingly positive. The other women eagerly dig into their portions of curry, their faces lighting up with surprise and delight at the rich flavors and aromatic spices. Some even asks for seconds!

Seeing how happy her curry made her friends, she is filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment. Though her curry may not be perfect, it is proof of her determination and perseverance. With each day that passes, Keira grows more confident in her abilities, embracing the joy of cooking and the camaraderie of her friends in the process.

As the week draws to a close, the women gather to reflect on their progress and newfound culinary skills. Muffy and Leia beam with pride as they share their success in preparing grilled fish over rice. Each has honed their expertise in a different aspect of the dish—Muffy excelling in rice cooking while Leia has perfected the art of grilling fish. Though they may not yet be capable of crafting a full dish independently, their newfound abilities mark a promising start on their culinary journey.

Celia, too, has flourished under Ruby's guidance, expanding her repertoire of recipes to include a diverse array of nourishing dishes that she can proudly serve to her family. Nami and Flora have taken their cooking to new heights, infusing their recipes with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients to create meals that are both delicious and nutritious.

Yet, it is Keira who stands out among them all, her growth in the kitchen is nothing short of remarkable. From a novice with no prior cooking experience, she has blossomed into a confident cook, mastering the art of preparing delectable curry dishes that rival even those crafted by experienced chefs.

As they bid farewell to the inn, armed with the knowledge and skills they have acquired, Keira's heart swells with anticipation. She returns home eager to put her newfound talents to the test, determined to surprise her husband with a homemade curry dish for the very first time.

The next day as the morning sunlight streams through the windows, painting the kitchen with a warm glow, Mark once again leaves the home ready to work on the farm. Once he is out of the house, Keira wastes no time in getting to work on her culinary masterpiece. With practiced efficiency, she gathers the freshly delivered ingredients from Mineral Town, her excitement palpable as she dons her apron and hair sack, ready to embark on her first cooking adventure outside the inn.

Though the kitchen in the house may be smaller than the spacious inn's kitchen, Keira refuses to let its limitations dampen her spirits. Instead, she embraces the challenge, determined to make the most of the space available to her and showcase her newfound culinary prowess to her husband and the valley.

As the rhythmic sound of chopping vegetables fills the air, accompanied by the soothing boiling of rice on the stove, Keira's focus remains unbroken. With each precise movement, she infuses her cooking with passion and care, channeling her inner chef as she works tirelessly to craft the perfect meal for Mark.

The faint murmur of the television drifts in from the living room, a comforting presence that keeps Keira company as she toils away in the kitchen. Despite her new hobby, she is determined not to miss a moment of any shows. Though her attention is divided, she refuses to let anything distract her from her mission—to create a meal that will not only tantalize the taste buds but also warm the heart of her home.

Before long, the kitchen is enveloped in a symphony of tantalizing aromas, the savory scent of curry mingling with the fragrant steam rising from the pot of rice. With each passing moment, anticipation mounts, building to a crescendo as Keira's culinary creation nears completion.

And as the final touches are made, Keira steps back to admire her handiwork, a proud smile gracing her lips. With the meal served on plates on the dining room table, her heart swells with excitement at the thought of surprising her husband with her homemade masterpiece comes to fruition.

As she awaits his return, Keira can't help but feel a sense of pride and satisfaction wash over her. Today marks not only a culinary triumph but also proof of to her determination and growth. Started as a princess with no useable skills to the farm, Keira wishes to use what she learned from Ruby to be more productive in her home she married into. As she waits for Mark to come home so she can sit down to enjoy the fruits of her labor with him, surrounded by the warmth and comfort of home, Keira knows that she has truly found her place in Forget-Me-Not Valley.

"I'm home," Mark calls out as he enters the house setting his rucksack down. "I'm going to get dinner started soon."

The rich aroma of curry wafts through the air, piquing Mark's curiosity as he steps into the dining room. There, he finds Keira standing by the table, two plates of curry laid out before them. Surprised, he asks, "Hi, Keira, where did all this food come from?"

Keira greets him with a graceful bow and replies, "I have prepared dinner for us today. I hope you will enjoy it."

"Wow, I can't believe you did this! Those cooking lessons must have really paid off. Did you have fun?" Mark inquires.

Keira nods, a smile gracing her lips. As they begin to eat, Mark picks up his spoon, unsure of what to expect. It's only been a short while since Keira started her cooking lessons, so he's not expecting much. Still, he's grateful for the break from cooking and hopes the curry tastes at least remotely similar to instant curry.

However, as soon as he takes a spoonful of curry into his mouth, his eyes widen in shock. The flavors explode on his palate, each bite a delightful symphony of spices and textures. The curry is perfectly cooked, the vegetables tender and bursting with flavor, while the rice is fluffy and infused with the rich curry sauce. In that moment, Mark realizes that Keira has not only surpassed his own cooking skills but has also exceeded his expectations in a remarkably short amount of time.

"It's delicious!" Mark exclaims, surprise evident in his voice.

"You really think so? You don't think it's too bland?" Keira asks, her tone uncertain.

"It's perfect! The best curry I've ever had," Mark praises, genuine admiration in his voice.

Keira lets out a sigh of relief, her hard work finally paying off. "I was hoping that I could take over the cooking. I quite enjoy it, and it will give you a chance to rest after your duties on the farm. Is that okay with you?"

"Of course! I would be happy to eat your cooking every day!" Mark replies with a smile, his heart warmed by Keira's gesture.

Keira's cheeks flush with warmth, a grateful smile touching her lips as she absorbs Mark's kind words. Across the table, Mark's gaze shifts to the woman sitting across from him, a soft smile curving his lips. Keira's journey from their chance encounter deep in the mines to this moment hasn't gone unnoticed by him. It's a realization that dawns on him like a gentle sunrise: he's falling for Keira, a feeling both unexpected and profound, given they are already bound in marriage.

Reflecting on their journey—from the silent communication in the mines to the awkward union thrust upon them—Mark marvels at how Keira has transformed their lives. His home, once empty and devoid of companionship has evolved into an adventure that Mark never expected once Keira entered his life. What began as uncertainty has evolved into a partnership, a shared endeavor to create a home filled with warmth and happiness. Keira's culinary efforts symbolize her dedication to their life together, igniting a desire in Mark to reciprocate her devotion.

As they savor the meal she painstakingly prepared, Mark contemplates ways to express his feelings to Keira. He envisions a future where their bond deepens, where laughter fills their days, and where they build a family together. With a newfound sense of purpose, he resolves to show Keira just how much she means to him, nurturing their relationship into a true partnership—one built on love, trust, and mutual respect.