Chef in the Apocalypse

After a few more minutes of Kane’s impromptu meeting, Jayce leaned back in his chair and surveyed the others. "So you’ve told us your plans, does that mean you agree to take us in?" he asked casually. 𝕗𝗿𝕖𝐞𝐰𝗲𝕓𝐧𝕠𝕧𝗲𝐥.𝚌𝐨𝚖

Kane looked at Dion for a moment, before responding. "Dion has told us that you offered to help rebuild our city."

Jayce nodded, "Yes, we’re looking for a place to call our own. So if it means that we will need to assist with rebuilding that’s fine." He straightened up, placing his arms on the desk. "However, I think we may have better talents than just being laborers." he added seriously.

"What do you suggest?" Dion spoke up, analyzing Jayce carefully. He was slightly wary of this man’s goals, hence why he met them with armed guards at the edge of the forest.

"My friends and I are an elite unit, as I’m sure you already know. We’d be willing to help clear out the monsters from the surrounding areas, even directing survivors here on our way." Jayce smiled.

The other four nodded, they could tell just by Jayce and Colin’s demeanor that they were battle hardened. "And what would you like in return?" Juliet spoke up, broaching the subject carefully.

"I have a few needs and wants. Some are more pressing than others. But for now, let’s let my friends settle down. We’ve had a long journey of trekking through the forest." Jayce replied.

Jayce’s lips curled into a thoughtful smile as he contemplated the situation. "You know, with all this talk of the future, I think it’s time for a celebration. What do you say we organize a feast to mark our safe arrival in town?"

Leon’s eyes lit up with enthusiasm, and he nodded in agreement. "A feast sounds like just what everyone needs. We could use some time to rest and recover, gods know just how hard we’ve been working."

Kane interjected, his tone practical yet appreciative. "I’ll arrange some lodgings for you and your group. You can rest there until sunset, by then everything should be organized."

However, Jayce shook his head, a glint flickering in his eye. "Actually, I have a proposal. I’m a chef, and I believe there’s no one better suited to the task of preparing a feast than me." He leaned forward on the table and said with a grin "Let me cook."

The four exchanged glances, taken aback by Jayce’s unexpected suggestion. But as the implications of his words sunk in, they began to see the logic in his offer. After all, if they could not guess Jayce was a chef by the Chef’s hat and jacket, they would not be in their positions now.

Dion’s face was as impassive as ever, however, the prospect of a delicious meal appealed to him. "A feast prepared by the person who took down the High Troll? I’m sure it’ll be an unforgettable experience."

Kane, whose initial reluctance had transformed into genuine interest, nodded in agreement. "Very well then, Chef. It’s settled. You have our gratitude."

***

In the heart of the town, as the sun’s glow began to paint the horizon with warm hues, Dion led Jayce and Colin through the bustling streets. The townsfolk had largely gone about their daily tasks, but there was a certain air of excitement building, a sense that something extraordinary was about to happen.

As they walked, Jayce spoke to Dion, his voice filled with both anticipation and specific instructions. "Dion, I’m going to need a large spit, around five meters long. Can you set it up near the area where I’ll be preparing the food?"

Dion raised an eyebrow curiously but decided against asking further questions. Instead, he nodded in agreement. "Of course. I’ll have it arranged as you’ve requested."

They arrived at an open clearing, where much of the debris had been cleared away, leaving a space that was larger and more welcoming than before. A once-flowing fountain now stood empty in the middle of the plaza, a silent testament to the changes brought about by the apocalypse.

Dion turned to Jayce, gesturing around the area. "You can set up here, Chef. We’ll make sure everything is ready for you, including the spit you’ve mentioned."

With a nod of appreciation, Jayce watched as Dion and the others dispersed to carry out their tasks. As he waited, Colin’s brow furrowed in curiosity, and he finally voiced his question. "Leader, why are you taking on the task of preparing the feast? Isn’t that typically the job of the host?"

Jayce’s laughter, bright and unburdened, filled the air. "Ah, Colin, my friend, this goes deeper than just preparing a feast." He glanced around, his gaze fixed on the upcoming task. "Remember when I mentioned there were prerequisites for the class upgrade quests?"

Colin nodded in remembrance, his eyes focused on Jayce, waiting for the explanation.

Jayce’s expression was both mysterious and joyful as he revealed the truth. "Well, mine is related to this feast. I have to prepare enough food for a hundred people in a single setting. Only then can I unlock my class upgrade quest."

Colin’s brow shot up in surprise, his initial confusion replaced by understanding. "Making a feast is part of your class upgrade?"

Jayce’s nod was filled with a glint of excitement, his eyes alight with purpose. "Exactly! This feast isn’t just about celebrating our safe arrival; it’s also the key to unlocking my class upgrade quest."

True to his nature, Colin slung his arm over Jayce’s shoulders with a hearty laugh. "That’s our leader for you!"

Chuckling, Jayce slipped free from Colin’s grip. "Alright, alright. Enough with the fanfare. I’ve got work to do. Get me a large table and some fresh water," he instructed, his tone laced with a touch of playfulness.

"Consider it done, boss!" Colin responded, his salute more genuine than formal as he set off to complete the assigned tasks.

As the big man departed, Jayce let out a breath, feeling the thrill of the challenge ahead. "Let’s make this feast unforgettable."