Mistic A Fictional Narrative

"A whimsical treat, showcasing the sweeter parts of the oceanic bounty in the world of Mistica."

The audience waited anxiously. All were curious as to what would become of the events from earlier that day. Erika had shown up, her eyes tired and puffy. However, there was a renewed lighthearted energy to her movements that had been lacking in the past few days. Her determination was back in full force, and no malicious commentary was going to dissuade her from her goals now. As soon as Keilly gave her the go ahead, Erika sprinted off to her kitchen to get cooking immediately.
Keilly
Keilly nervously studied the remaining chefs. From her position, she couldn’t make out what they were saying. They appeared to be conversing in a civil manner; at
What I don’t get is why you went about it that way. It’s not your style.”

“I suppose it was because I did not wish to give the appearance of favoritism or pity. Still, you didn’t have to hit me. It’s no different from what you did, isn’t it?”

“What.” Clayton snapped back. “It is waaaay different.”

“Do tell,” Gordon pressed.

“First off, I didn’t know it was ‘well-intentioned’ at the time,” Clayton said, making air quotes at well-intentioned while rolling his eyes. “Second, it is a whole different level of jerkdom. Sure, I was a jerk, but I riled her up in a positive direction; I told her to get better and beat us. You, well… you went for flat out condemning her life’s work by failing in this competition.” Clayton almost playfully added as an afterthought, “You should stick with your usual snooty, indifferent level of jerkdom - that suits you best.”

“I see,” Gordon grumbled. “So, what about you? That was unusually cavalier of you to go running off like you did.”

“Feh,” Clayton huffed, turning away and lowering his ears back defensively. “Yeah, well… let’s just say it struck a personal chord with me. Don’t expect it again.”

“I see. Even tough guy Clayton has his soft spots, hmm?” Gordon said
My jaw is still a bit sore.” Gordon rubbed lightly at the side of his jaw.

*****
Erika emerged from the kitchen a short while later with a tray in hand. She brought it before Keilly and Daniel-san. “Interesting! What is it?” Daniel-san inquired.

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“This is Citrus Seaweed Pudding! It took a little guidance in the right direction, but I was able to deliver on my promise of a dessert-based dish, despite the challenging theme of seafood.” Erika beamed, relieved that she had something to present. “The seaweed is used as a thickener to create the right consistency for pudding, and the orange zest adds a subtle fruity flavor. It is served on a bed of seaweed in an oyster shell; this dish is appealing as it is tasty!”

”And the fish spoon?” Keilly noted.

“That,” Erika smirked, “Is to add some fun to the dish.”

Daniel-san gleefully dug in while Keilly pulled Erika aside. “So, what exactly happened before?”

“Auugh! Would you believe this competition just made me so angry, yet it was tearing me down inside!” Erika exclaimed, her emotional anguish apparent. “I wanted to do well, but I was starting to doubt my skills. Gordon’s comments and shoving the book at me just pushed me over the edge. I’m good now, though. Really!” Erika continued, overwhelming Keilly with her renewed enthusiasm. “We all lose our way sometimes, right? I was so focused on being the best, that I forgot to focus on what I love most - cooking, and bringing happiness to those who enjoy