Kai's fingers tingled as he set the Ironfire Coals carefully beneath the battered stove. The faint glow of the ember was promising — hotter and steadier than any fire he had coaxed before.
He closed his eyes, feeling the warmth seep into his bones. With the Heat Control I skill equipped, the fire responded to his will, flickering to a precise, controlled flame that licked the edges of the pot without scorching.
"Let's make this one count."
The ingredients on his shelf were meager: the cabbage core, pork scraps, a shriveled onion, and the lone potato. But the fire was different now. The system buzzed faintly, urging him to push further.
[System Advisory]
Quest Updated: Savor the Start
Progress: 4 / 10 Satisfying Dishes Created
XP Required for Next Level: 150
Kai chopped the onion with his now-practiced knife technique. The slices fell like silk, thin and even, releasing the sharp aroma of fresh produce. He threw them into the pot, the sizzling sound sharper, richer with the hotter coals.
The pork scraps browned quickly, caramelizing on the edges without a hint of burning. The broth deepened in color, a promising reddish-gold.
He sprinkled salt carefully, tasting cautiously. A spark of flavor ignited — far better balanced than before.
The door opened, this time revealing a woman, mid-30s, wearing a weather-beaten cloak and tired eyes. She moved with a subtle grace, the air around her faintly tinged with spice.
"Smells better in here," she said softly, settling down.
Kai ladled a bowl of his stew and set it before her.
She took a sip, eyes closing as she savored the warmth and depth.
"This… this has heart," she said quietly. "Better than any broth I've had in Braisenhold's taverns."
Kai smiled, the first real pride blooming inside him.
[Dish Quality: 7.8/10 – Good]
XP Gained: 9
Progress: 4 / 10 Satisfying Dishes Created
The woman left without a word, leaving behind a small pouch.
Kai's hands trembled as he opened it — inside were five silver coins, more than enough for a full day's food and a little extra.
[System Notification]
XP Updated: +9 XP
Total XP: 9 / 150
Kai's heart raced. He was climbing, step by step.
But it wasn't just about the coins or the dishes. Something deep inside him had shifted.
The fire was no longer just survival.
It was ambition.
He looked around his kitchen, the broken tiles and peeling paint now bathed in the warm glow of Ironfire Coals.
One step closer to becoming a master.
[Quest Reminder]
Savor the Start – Create 10 satisfying dishes using the Culinary System.
Progress: 4 / 10
Kai picked up his knife and prepared for the next dish.
The flame awaited.