Upon returning from our vacation, we immediately set out for our next task.
We had requested Gregory-san’s assistance to handle vegetable deliveries to Karuban’s house.
There is only one reason, to meet Hugo-san, the head chef responsible for the Karuban house’s kitchen.
「It’s been a while since you last met, right?」
「Yes!」
For Martina, Hugo-san was not only her father but also her mentor who had taught her the art of cooking.
She had deviated from the path of a chef to become an adventurer, leaving her father’s side.
Initially, Hugo-san had created a rift between them by insisting that Martina had more culinary talent than he did.
However, that was all in the past.
Now, through my intervention, they have reconciled.
We have two purposes this time. One is to deliver vegetables and the second is to seek Hugo-san’s advice on what dishes would be fitting for the Knight Order’s cafeteria.
-0-
Upon arriving at the Karuban estate, we were smoothly allowed onto the premises.
While the surroundings were heavily guarded, our prior visit and the fact that Martina, the chef’s daughter, accompanied us ensured a warm reception. Furthermore, the presence of Charlotte, the Blaffer family’s young lady, likely increased our credibility.
By the way, Claudia-san remained in the dungeon, leading the woodmen in cleaning and other household chores.
This arrangement reflected Charlotte’s strong intent.
From what I’ve heard, it seems like Charlotte is very much inclined to act only if it has nothing to do with her house.
Although it was unusual for Claudia-san, the dedicated maid, to leave her side, Charlotte’s insistence left us with no choice but to comply.
With our agreement to protect Charlotte, we proceeded.
While Kiara and the others handled the vegetable delivery with the maids, Martina and I made our way to Hugo-san’s location.
「Father!」
「Ma-Martina!?」
Hugo-san’s surprise was evident as he spotted his daughter rushing toward him with joy.
Well, it had been quite some time since they last met.
「What’s going on?」
「Today, there’s something I want to discuss with you.」
「Discuss……?」
Hugo-san’s expression shifted, and he cleared his throat with a formal ‘cough’.
Why the sudden formality?
「So, what’s the reason for this private conversation?」
「Well, I’ve been tasked with planning the menu for the Knight Order’s cafeteria. I wanted to seek your advice on what would be suitable.」
「…What?」
Hugo-san glanced between Martina and me.
「W-well, it’s only about that. I guess it’s still a bit too early.」
After another cough, he added,
「Very well. Let’s talk.」
And so, we stepped away from the kitchen to begin our consultation.
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