Grand Return System-Chapter 23: Fragrance in the Quiet Hall

Fragrance in the Quiet Hall

Leon sat in the main hall of Amethyst Summit Division, uneasy in a way he couldn’t quite explain.

Silence pressed in around him. Outside, the wind brushed against the pines along the Acedmy premises, whispering softly — yet inside, his heart refused to calm.

Time dragged.

He wasn’t sure how long had passed before Selena finally appeared, carrying plates one after another.

Steam curled upward. The dishes shimmered beneath the lamplight — rich colors, gentle heat, an aroma that slipped quietly into the air and wrapped around him.

Leon swallowed.

Hm... it smells good. Surprisingly good. Maybe... it’s fine?

He hesitated.

"Teacher, the dishes are ready. Try them!"

Selena rested her chin on her hands, eyes bright, anticipation shining like starlight. That look alone made it impossible to refuse.

Leon sighed inwardly.

If I don’t eat... I’ll crush her heart.

"...Alright. Let’s be brave, then."

He gritted his teeth, picked up a piece of meat — and closed his eyes.

He bit down.

His eyes opened at once.

"Eh..."

Juices burst gently. The seasoning was subtle but deep, the texture soft yet springy. Heat lingered, followed by a faint sweetness.

Not just edible.

Actually... excellent.

Leon stared at the chopsticks, stunned.

This girl... actually has this kind of talent? Does this mean... I can eat like this every day?

Selena leaned forward nervously.

"Teacher, how is it? Is it good?"

He nodded slowly, then smiled.

"Mhm. Your cooking is impressive. From color to aroma to taste — each part is handled very well. I didn’t expect you to have such skill. I’m genuinely surprised."

Relief flooded her face, followed immediately by pride.

"When I was at home, Mother taught me for a long time. She’s amazing in the kitchen. She always told me — if a woman wants to win a man’s heart, she must first win his stomach. So she made me practice, so one day... I could cook for the person I like."

Leon paused.

His lips curved into a mischievous smile.

"Seems your mother taught you many... useful things. But don’t get carried away. You should keep practicing. From today onward, you’ll be in charge of Amethyst Summit Division’s meals. Cook daily — and see whether your skill continues to improve."

Inside, he chuckled.

A top-tier chef... for free. Life might actually become comfortable.

Selena didn’t sense the trap — only the approval.

"As long as Teacher enjoys it, I’ll cook for you every day. I still have many dishes I haven’t tried yet!"

Leon nodded, satisfied.

"Good. Eat first. Rest early afterward — we continue cultivating tomorrow."

"Okay..."

Hungry from training, Selena happily picked up her chopsticks.

They ate together — fast, like two travelers who had wandered too long without warmth.

After the last bowl was empty, Selena washed the utensils, cleaned the kitchen carefully, and headed to her room.

Night fell quietly across the Acedmy premises.

Nothing disturbed them.

The world simply slept.

—

Morning.

Fingers splayed wide, Selena yawned into the morning. Her door slid aside with a soft scrape. Outside, pale light crept over cobbles, touching her arms like water. Air - crisp and low - settled on her shoulders.

Fresh from sleep, her hold on Onyx Realm stayed calm - no wavers at all. Grounded deep. Nothing shaky beneath.

Her eyes moved sideways, settling on Leon’s door.

Still closed.

"Teacher hasn’t woken yet."

That moment barely registered. Off she went toward the kitchen, feet carrying her while a quiet tune slipped out, hands busy fixing morning food.

Smoke curled upward once more. Through the open yard, a scent floated by.

Floating upward, the sun cleared Celestis Academy’s far rooftops just as she stepped forward with breakfast ready. Door number nine stood ahead - Leon waited behind it.

But before she could knock—

A streak of light descended across the distant horizon.

It sliced cleanly through the sky — swift, shimmering, leaving ripples of Mana behind it.

Selena froze.

So early... someone coming here?

Her heart tightened.

Could it be Shera again?

The light came closer — fast — and only then did Selena truly see the figure approaching Amethyst Summit Division.

Her eyes widened.

And she drew in a slow breath — waiting.