Chapter 27

Many seasons has passed since the Bon Festival and Witch Princess' departure; Forget-Me-Not Valley has undergone a quiet transformation. The once-sleepy village, tucked away between rolling hills and lush greenery, has become a haven for travelers seeking a break from the chaos of crowded cities. Word of the festival's success—and the valley's natural charm—spread quickly, drawing more tourists than the villagers had ever imagined.

The changes are visible everywhere. Vesta's farm, known for its lush produce, is thriving under the increased demand for fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. She and her family spend long days in the fields, harvesting crops that seem to sell out faster than ever before. Despite the wave of orders coming from the phone, Vesta's farm has been bustling with visitors eager to purchase seasonal crops in person.

The Blue Bar and Ruby's Inn have become the social heart of the valley. Ruby's home-cooked meals have earned a reputation for being comforting and delicious, making the inn an essential stop for tourists. Meanwhile, Griffin's drinks have become the stuff of local legend, with visitors crowding into the bar to relax after a day of exploring sipping on Griffin's custom drinks. Muffy's charm and warmth only add to the appeal, ensuring that no guest ever feels unwelcome.

Patrick and Kassey, the valley's quirky pyrotechnics experts, are busier than they've ever been. Their dazzling fireworks, once reserved for local celebrations, are now in demand across neighboring villages and towns. Orders for their displays pour in, and they've become something of local celebrities, their craft bringing a splash of color to the world's otherwise quiet nights.

Even Murray, once overlooked by many, has found a surprising niche in this new wave of prosperity. Inspired by Keira's bongo lessons, he now performs regularly for passing tourists, his energetic beats drawing smiles and generous tips. He's become a fixture of the valley's charm, and his newfound joy in playing music is impossible to miss.

The influx of visitors hasn't just benefited the businesses; it's also breathed new life into the valley. Tourists wander the scenic paths, marveling at the beauty of nature, while artists and photographers find inspiration in the serene landscapes. Children laugh as they play near the river, and couples enjoy picnics under the shade of towering trees. The valley, once quiet and still, now feels alive in a way it hadn't before.

Spring has once again breathed life into Forget-Me-Not Valley. The fields are vibrant with blooming flowers, and the air carries the scent of fresh earth and new beginnings. This year, however, the valley has more to celebrate than just the arrival of Spring. A friendly rivalry has blossomed between Forget-Me-Not Valley and the neighboring Mineral Town, culminating in an event that promises to solidify the region's reputation: a cooking contest judged by none other than the famous Gourmet.

Late in the season, the excitement reaches its peak as residents from both settlements gather to showcase their culinary prowess. The idea of the contest began as a playful debate over who is the better cook, Ruby or Doug—two of the most renowned cooks in the region—but quickly grew into a full-fledged competition. Even though the competition is for them, everyone is invited to participate, from seasoned chefs to eager amateurs looking to impress the legendary food critic.

Keira, encouraged by Mark and her neighbors, decides to join the contest. Over the past year, her culinary skills have greatly improved, thanks to countless hours spent experimenting in the kitchen with recipes shared by Ruby and Nori. Despite her nerves, Keira feels a sense of pride and determination. This is her chance to show how far she's come and contribute to the valley's growing reputation.

The contest is set on the beach, where tables are lined up beneath colorful banners flapping in the breeze. Plates and bowls of all shapes and sizes are artfully arranged, each holding the fruits of countless hours of preparation. The aroma of fresh bread, grilled meats, and spiced vegetables fills the air, making it impossible for anyone to resist the urge to sample the creations. It's a true feast for the senses, and the crowd of spectators eagerly mills about, chatting and anticipating the arrival of the judge.

Late in the afternoon, the sound of a boat horn echoes across the sea, silencing the hum of conversation. All eyes turn to the dock as the boat carrying the Gourmet comes into view. The residents of both valleys watch intently as the man himself steps off the boat, a towering figure dressed impeccably in a tailored purple suit and top hat. The Gourmet is a sight to behold, his larger-than-life presence commanding respect and attention. Despite his intimidating stature, there's a twinkle of curiosity in his eyes as he surveys the scene before him.

The Gourmet approaches the long line of tables, each one adorned with carefully prepared dishes. The contestants, including Keira, stand behind their creations, hearts pounding with anticipation. Normally, the Gourmet assigns a theme for the competition, challenging participants to create a dish that adheres to specific guidelines. This year, however, he surprises everyone by declaring that the contest is open-themed, allowing contestants to present any dish of their choice. The announcement is met with murmurs of excitement, as it gives each chef the freedom to showcase their signature creations.

The Gourmet stands tall in front of the gathered crowd, his impressive presence commanding the attention of everyone on the beach. Dressed in his signature purple suit and adorned with an air of authority, he clears his throat and introduces himself with a deep, booming voice that somehow carries warmth beneath its gravitas.

"Thank you, residents of Forget-Me-Not Valley and Mineral Town, for this opportunity to sample the culinary treasures of your region. It is always a delight to witness the creativity, effort, and love that go into your dishes. Today, I look forward to tasting the best you have to offer."

The crowd applauds politely as he begins to walk down the long line of tables, his discerning eyes studying each dish with careful precision. He pauses here and there, examining the plating, noting the aromas wafting from the plates, and occasionally asking the chefs about their creations. His reputation as a fair yet formidable judge precedes him, and the contestants anxiously await his verdicts.

As he moves down the line, his gaze lands on Karen's dish. His expression tightens for a fleeting moment as he remembers her less-than-stellar reputation in the kitchen. Her history of culinary disasters has become a bit of a legend in Mineral Town and Forget-Me-Not Valley, rivaled only by Muffy's occasional kitchen mishaps. Despite his apprehension, Gourmet knows he must fulfill his duty and taste each dish, regardless of its reputation.

Then his attention shifts to Keira's table. There, an unfamiliar dessert catches his eye—a glistening, bouncy creation that stands out among the more traditional offerings. Curious, Gourmet steps closer, his towering frame leaning slightly over the table as he inspects the dish.

"What is your name young lady?" asks Gourmet.

Keira gives him a respectful bow and answers, "My name is Keira Artisan. It is a pleasure to meet you."

"And what have you prepared today?" he asks, raising an eyebrow as he looks at the dish.

Keira offers him a polite smile, though her heart races as she meets the gaze of the famed critic. "It's called Mochi," she explains. "An eastern dessert I learned from a friend, Nori, in Konohana."

Gourmet nods, visibly intrigued. "Interesting. I've never encountered this dish in my travels. I look forward to tasting it."

After the visual inspection of the dishes is complete, he begins the taste test. As expected, Ruby and Doug earn high praise, their culinary skills shining through in their perfectly seasoned and balanced dishes. The other contestants receive kind yet constructive criticism—helpful tips to improve their techniques without discouragement.

Then the moment everyone dreads arrives: Gourmet reaches Karen's table. She stands nervously behind her dish, trying to maintain a smile despite the beads of sweat forming on her brow. Gourmet hesitates for the briefest moment before picking up his fork and taking a cautious bite. The look on his face says everything—Karen's cooking hasn't improved. He valiantly swallows the bite and offers her polite advice, though the strained expression on his face betrays his true thoughts. Karen nods, her smile faltering only slightly as the crowd exchanges knowing glances.

Finally, Gourmet arrives at Keira's table. He picks up the plate of mochi with a deliberate grace and brings it close, inhaling its sweet, earthy aroma. He notices the dish's unusual texture, its bouncy nature resembling chewing gum resisting the gentle press of his fork. Intrigued, he cuts into one piece and lifts it to his mouth.

The moment the mochi touches his tongue, Gourmet's eyes widen slightly in surprise. The soft, chewy texture contrasts beautifully with the sweet, rich flavor of the bean paste filling. The green tea powder covering the treat adds an earthy depth that elevates the dessert to something truly unique. Gourmet savors the bite for a moment longer before placing the fork down and turning to Keira.

"This is extraordinary," he says, his voice filled with genuine admiration. "The texture is unlike anything I've encountered, and the balance of sweetness and earthiness is exquisite. Tell me again—what is the filling?"

"It's sweet bean paste," Keira replies, her cheeks flushed with pride. "It's made from azuki beans, which are common in eastern cuisine."

Gourmet nods, clearly impressed. "It's a bold choice to present such an unconventional dish, but you've executed it with remarkable skill. Well done."

Keira nods, appreciating the compliments of the renown food critic. After the tasting portion of the contest is over, Gourmet addresses the crowd. "My compliments to everyone who participated today. Your efforts and creativity have made this competition a truly delightful experience. Each dish was prepared with care and love, and it shows. However, as always, there can only be one winner."

The crowd holds its collective breath, all eyes turning to Ruby and Doug. Everyone expects the trophy to go to one of the seasoned chefs.

"This year's winner," he announces, but Gourmet surprises them all. "is Keira, for her bold and masterfully executed Mochi!"

Gasps and cheers erupt from the crowd as Keira stands frozen in disbelief. Gourmet steps forward, holding a gleaming trophy adorned with intricate carvings of wheat and vegetables, and hands it to her with a proud smile.

"Congratulations, Keira," he says warmly. "You've not only impressed me but also introduced something new and extraordinary to this competition. I hope you continue to explore and share your unique talents with the world."

Keira accepts the trophy with trembling hands, her heart swelling with pride and joy. The crowd breaks into applause, and Mark, standing among the onlookers, cheers louder than anyone. For Keira, this moment is more than just a victory—it's proof of how far she's come, both as a cook and as a member of the community she now calls home.

The following morning, the sunlight streams through the windows of the cozy farmhouse as Mark and Keira stand side by side in their living room, gazing at the gleaming trophy now displayed prominently on the shelf. Its polished surface reflects the warmth of their smiles. Mark wraps an arm around Keira's shoulders, pulling her close.

"You know," he begins, crossing his arms, "I still can't wrap my head around this. When we met, you had no idea what a stove is, and now…" He gestures toward the trophy. "You've got the best critic in the region giving you standing ovations."

Keira laughs softly, her cheeks turning pink.

"Ruby is a good teacher, but even she was blown away by you. It's like you picked up cooking overnight," Mark says, shaking his head in disbelief. "I've never seen anyone learn so fast."

Their quiet moment is interrupted by a knock at the door. Mark glances at Keira, who shrugs, and then he heads to answer it. When he opens the door, he is surprised to see Gourmet standing outside, dressed as impeccably as ever.

"Gourmet," Mark says, slightly startled. "What brings you here?"

"I'm here to speak with Keira," Gourmet replies with his usual calm authority.

Mark steps aside, gesturing for him to enter. "Of course. Come in."

Inside, Gourmet takes a seat at the table across from Mark and Keira. He greets them both with a warm smile, then turns his attention to Keira.

"First, let me congratulate you once again on your remarkable victory," Gourmet begins. "Your mochi was truly exceptional—one of the finest dishes I've had the pleasure of tasting in years."

"Thank you," Keira says, her cheeks flushing slightly.

After some light conversation about Keira's journey as a cook, Gourmet leans forward, his jovial demeanor giving way to a more serious yet earnest expression. His eyes shine with purpose as he speaks. "Keira, I didn't come here just to congratulate you. I came with a proposal." He pauses, choosing his words carefully. "Your eastern cooking style is extraordinary—an art form that's as unique as it is captivating. The city has never seen anything like it, and I believe it's exactly what people need. Since the competition, I haven't been able to stop thinking about your dish. It's inspired me, and now I want to invite you to be part of something special. I'm opening a new restaurant in the city, and I'd like you to be the one to introduce these incredible eastern flavors to the world. You're not just talented, Keira—you're the best person for the job."

Keira's eyes widen in astonishment, her lips parting as she processes the unexpected offer. She instinctively glances at Mark, who sits beside her, his expression mirroring her surprise. "That's… an incredible offer," she finally says, her voice tinged with uncertainty. Though flattered, her words carry the weight of hesitation. She knows this isn't just about her—it's a life-altering decision that could affect her marriage and the home they've built together.

Gourmet catches the flicker of doubt in her gaze. He leans back slightly, giving her space to think, but his tone remains warm and encouraging. "I can see you're hesitant," he says gently. "It's not an easy choice, I know. But I wouldn't be here if I didn't believe in your talent, Keira. You have something truly special—a gift worth sharing with the world." His voice softens further, but there's an unmistakable conviction in his words. "I'm prepared to ensure you're well-supported financially. I'll offer you more than enough to take care of both yourself and Mark, should he decide to join you in the city. You would have every resource you need to succeed—financially, professionally, and creatively. All I ask is that you think about it."

Mark speaks up, his voice calm but firm. "I appreciate that, but my life is here, Gourmet. The valley is my home, and I can't leave it. But this is Keira's decision. I don't want to hold her back if this is something she truly wants."

Keira looks down at her hands, her thoughts racing. She thinks of the city—bright lights, bustling streets, they were once terrifying ideas. But as she gets used to being around more people, and watching city life on TV, the idea to someday see this concrete jungle filled with life; like visiting a kingdom of modern day. But then she looks around the farmhouse, at the trophy on the shelf, at Mark sitting beside her, his steady gaze full of love and support.

After a moment of silence, she lifts her head and meets Gourmet's eyes. "Thank you so much for this opportunity. It means the world to me that you believe in my cooking. But my life is here, with Mark, in Forget-Me-Not Valley. I've already found my happiness, and I don't want to leave it behind."

Gourmet nods, a faint smile on his lips. "I respect your decision, Keira. It takes courage to choose what truly matters to you. Still, should you ever change your mind, the door will always be open."

He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a sleek business card, sliding it across the table toward her. "If you ever find yourself in the city, don't hesitate to contact me. I'd be honored to work with you someday."

Keira takes the card with a grateful smile. "Thank you. I won't forget this."

Gourmet rises to his feet, smoothing his suit. "Well, I should take my leave. It's been a pleasure meeting both of you again."

Mark walks him to the door and shakes his hand. "Thank you for everything, Gourmet. Safe travels."

As Gourmet departs, disappearing down the path toward the beach, Keira turns to Mark, the business card still in her hand.

"Are you sure about this?" Mark asks gently.

Keira smiles, her decision clear. "More sure than ever. I don't need anything else. I have everything I could ever want right here."

That night as they eat dinner, Mark forces a smile as he watches Keira across the table, her face glowing with satisfaction as she enjoys the meal she had prepared. She hums softly to herself, her happiness evident in every small movement. But behind Mark's smile, a storm brews. His heart feels heavy, weighed down by questions he's too afraid to ask. He wonders, maybe for the first time, if her devotion to him is either born out of love, or simply duty. Keira was raised in a world where obligation ruled above all else, and despite the life they've built together, he sometimes feels like an outsider to her inner thoughts, her heart has become a place he may never fully touch.

As they eat, the words of Witch Princess return to haunt him, echoing in his mind like an unwelcome specter. "They don't believe in love and romance. A queen serves the king!" The sharpness of her voice cuts through the quiet of the room, leaving Mark feeling uneasy. Was Witch Princess right all along? Was Keira, even now, living under the shadow of those laws? Had he unwittingly placed her in yet another cage, replacing the one she was born in? "She is still bound by the chains of her upbringing," the thought lingers, twisting like a thorn in his chest.

The silence stretches between them, broken only by the sound of utensils against plates. Mark stares down at his bowl, his appetite waning despite the flavorful food in front of him. He grips his fork tightly, his nerves fraying until he can't hold back any longer. Swallowing hard, he looks up at Keira, who glances at him curiously, her head tilting in that innocent way she always does.

"If… if you weren't married to me," he begins, his voice quiet but strained, "would you have taken Gourmet's offer?"

Keira doesn't even hesitate. "Yes, of course!" she replies brightly, her cheerful tone like a dagger to Mark's heart. She doesn't seem to notice the way his smile falters, the mask slipping ever so slightly.

Her enthusiasm, so unburdened and unreserved, cuts deeper than any hesitation could have. Mark lowers his gaze, nodding slowly, pretending to focus on his food as the words sink in. Keira continues talking about how exciting the idea of working in a restaurant sounds, her voice filled with genuine delight. She doesn't realize the weight her words carry for Mark, or how they feed into the doubts gnawing at his soul.

Mark smiles again, but this time it's weaker, more forced. "She deserves happiness," he tells himself, even if it means letting her go. But the ache in his chest reminds him that such thoughts are easier said than done. Imagining a life without her is impossible. And so, he finishes his meal in silence, his mind a tangle of questions he's not sure he'll ever have the courage to ask.

That night, as Keira slept soundly beside him, her serene expression illuminated by the faint glow of moonlight filtering through the window, Mark lay wide awake, staring at the ceiling. The questions clawed at his mind, relentless and unyielding. Was this the life Keira truly wanted? Or was she simply following the path she believed she was obligated to walk? The memory of her cheerful response to his earlier question played over and over in his head, like a broken record that refused to let him rest.

Mark turned onto his side, his eyes settling on Keira. Her breathing was steady, her face relaxed, and for a moment, he felt a pang of guilt. How could he doubt her happiness when she looked so content? But then, doubt crept in again. She had been trained to serve, to suppress her desires for the sake of others. Was this peace real, or was it another mask—one she wore for his sake?

His thoughts spiraled as the hours dragged on. He felt trapped in his own uncertainty, unsure of how to even approach the topic with her. Would asking her outright push her further away? Would it make her feel like he doubted her loyalty? The fear of losing her—whether to her own desires or to the realization that she might want something different—was almost unbearable.

As the first light of dawn began to creep into the room, Mark finally closed his eyes, though sleep eluded him. He resolved that he would have to find a way to truly understand what Keira wanted, even if the answers weren't what he hoped to hear. For now, he watched her sleep, whispering silently to himself, "I just want her to be happy… even if it's not with me."

The following afternoon, Mark returns home to find Keira bustling around the kitchen, her sleeves rolled up and her face focused as she carefully prepares lunch. The aroma of her cooking fills the house, and for a moment, Mark pauses in the doorway to take it all in. It fascinates him to see how far she has come—from a sheltered, naive princess unfamiliar with even the most basic tasks, to someone who has grown into a capable, independent woman. She moves with confidence, her every action purposeful and practiced, and Mark can't help but feel both pride and a deep, aching sadness.

He hates to admit it, even to himself, but he thinks she might be ready to be free. The thought clings to him like a shadow, growing heavier with each passing day. Perhaps she doesn't need him anymore—not as a protector, not as a husband. Perhaps she never truly did.

Feeling the weight of his thoughts pressing down on him, Mark quietly turns and heads back toward the door. He doesn't want to disturb her or bring his turmoil into the warmth of her moment. Just as he steps outside, Keira notices him leaving and calls out, "Mark, where are you going?"

He pauses but doesn't look back. "I'm just going for a walk," he replies, his voice low and distant.

"Can I come with you?" Keira asks, a slight note of concern in her tone.

Mark hesitates before shaking his head. "Not this time. I need to be alone for a while."

Keira watches as he walks out the door, the faint sadness in his voice lingering in the air like an unfinished melody. She furrows her brow, clutching the wooden spoon in her hand, a small pang of worry settling in her chest. Had she done something to upset him? Was there something she'd missed? She turns back to the kitchen, her movements slower now as her mind drifts, trying to piece together the reason behind Mark's melancholy.

The walk to Mineral Town is long and eerily quiet, the kind of silence that amplifies the thoughts swirling in Mark's mind. His boots crunch against the gravel path, but even the sound of his steps seems muted by the weight of his turmoil. As he trudges forward, the words of the Witch Princess echo relentlessly in his head: "You have no idea what you got into. I almost feel bad."

She had warned him. Her voice, tinged with both pity and scorn, had carried an edge of truth he hadn't wanted to hear at the time. But now, those words resonate louder than ever, each syllable cutting through his resolve. She knew. Witch Princess had foreseen this moment, had known how it would play out from the very beginning. She understood the kind of man Mark was—someone who would do whatever it took to save Keira from her cursed fate, even if it meant making sacrifices he didn't fully understand.

And so, he had done just that. He had made Keira his wife, given her a home, and shared his life with her. He had fallen in love with her—deeply, irrevocably. But now, with every step he takes toward Mineral Town, the harsh truth of the Witch Princess's words sinks in. Keira lives by different laws from a world he can never truly be part of, a world where loyalty and duty are bound by chains far heavier than love. Those chains had kept her tethered to him, hadn't they? Or was there something more? Did she truly stay because she loved him, or was it because she believed she had no other choice?

Mark's chest tightens as he grapples with the decision that looms over him like a storm cloud. He knows Witch Princess had anticipated this moment, that she had watched it coming like a seer watching a prophecy unfold. She had known that Mark, with all his good intentions, would eventually face the full weight of what it meant to live alongside someone like Keira. And now, standing at the edge of that realization, Mark feels the gravity of what lies ahead—decisions that could forever change the life they've built together.