Leaving the room in the tower, they walked the hallway until they arrived at the room closest to the top of the stairs. There, they stopped to let the healers on duty know Von felt like himself and they were heading to get food at the refectory, then to their appointment with Archmage Alden for their lessons. The journeyman healer took notes before telling them, "There's a shortcut on the first floor. Once you get to the bottom of the stairs, turn right. It will be the fourth door on your right. It has a lot of sigils carved into it, some of which look like different foods."
These directions matched what his system had said but from the point of view of travelling down the stairs instead of preparing to climb them. The two swiftly made their way to the first floor and passed the first three doors. The fourth door was not really a door, but more of an enchanting masterpiece seamlessly blending into the ancient stone walls. Luckily, the door itself was not stone, but was crafted from a rare, shimmering wood which seemed to capture and reflect the ambient light. The door was adorned with intricate carvings depicting healing herbs, mystical symbols, and ethereal creatures sitting around long tables covered in food.
Approaching the door and reaching for the small oval groove set into the left side of it, a soft, soothing hum emanated from the portal, creating an aura of tranquility around it. The door itself started to radiate a gentle warmth, and the aroma of fresh bread and roasted meat filling their senses as if inviting those in need of food to step through its threshold.
Upon opening the door, a mesmerizing vortex of swirling colors greeted the two travelers. The transition was seamless, as if stepping through a veil of magic. The portal transported Monica and Von from the serene confines of their tower to the bustling front of the refectory in an instant.
Emerging on the other side, they found themselves standing in a magically designated space, marked by a softly glowing circular pattern on the ground with the heavy wooden doors of the refectory standing roughly twenty feet before them.
Entering this morning, the room was no longer lit by candlelight, but instead, bright glowing orbs allowed one to easily see the long tables in the room. Also gone were the magical flames in the massive hearth, the servers, and sectioned areas. Now the entire building from a few feet from the kitchen wall to a few yards from the entry wall had the rows of tables. Set upon the two center rows of tables adorned with enchanted tablecloths was the breakfast buffet, featuring a vast array of options to cater to the diverse tastes of the magical community. The aroma of freshly baked bread, brewed potions, and sizzling enchantments wafted through the air, creating an enticing atmosphere that beckoned diners to indulge in the magical breakfast spread.
For those who preferred a hearty start to their day, the left set of tables offered a selection of savory delights. Grilled dragon sausages, enchanted bacon crackling with magical energy, and perfectly poached eggs from various creatures were served alongside golden hash browns flavored with magical herbs. The dish not only satisfied the cravings of carnivorous wizards but also provided a burst of magical sustenance to fuel their mystical endeavors.
Vegetarian options were abundant on the left row of tables, ensuring those with a penchant for plant-based fare could enjoy a magical breakfast as well. Here, the tables featured a medley of enchanted grains, roasted vegetables from the university's magical herb garden, and scrambled "pixie eggs"—a cruelty-free alternative which still captured the essence of morning indulgence. Complementing this dish were layers of enchanted fruits and yogurt sparkling with vibrant colors and flavors.
For those with a sweet tooth, at the far end of the long room, the buffet showcased a selection of enchanting pastries and baked goods. The waffles were light and fluffy, topped with a variety of magical fruit compotes, whipped creams, and drizzles of honey enchanted with levitating properties. The scones came in an array of flavors, from blueberry enchanted with illusion charms to cranberry infused with wakening spices. The pancake stack featured light and airy pancakes enchanted to hovered above the plate, served with a side of whipped butter and enchanted syrup.
A highlight of the breakfast menu was the beverage station where wizards could infuse their morning beverages with a variety of magical elixirs. The serenity elixir added a touch of calmness to the morning brew, while the energy elixir provided an invigorating boost to start the day. Patrons could also enjoy more traditional drinks such as the sweet bean beverage and a large assortment of freshly brewed herbal teas which they could add various herbs known for their magical properties.
The refectory's breakfast offerings were not limited to the buffet alone; patrons could step to the enchanted omelet station set with an array of fresh and magical ingredients to order magical dishes. One could also order made to order "enchanted" omelets created from the university's magical creatures cracked directly in front of the patrons, then one could choose from a collection of enchanted vegetables and herbs. Vibrant mushrooms with illusionary properties, celestial tomatoes bursting with flavor, and enchanted greens from the herb garden were laid out in an array of colors and textures for the diners to choose from as well as an assortment of enchanted cheeses which would be melted into a creamy blend to fill these omelets.
Continuing this theme of customization, the choosing the artisan toast creations allowed diners to select from a selection of freshly baked bread, each slice enchanted with unique properties then topped with an assortment of items including enchanted nut butters, mystical fruit preserves, and a variety of herbs and spices catering to individual taste preferences.
The refectory's commitment to accommodating dietary preferences extended to those with special dietary desires. As the near end of the tables featured additional root and nut-based pastries, enchanted nut milks, and a variety of plant-based yogurts ensuring all magical scholars could not only partake but also enjoy the morning feast.
Von chose to wait in line at one of the omelet stations where a chef with a tall hat adorned with mystical symbols, took charge of a magical griddle. The chef's workspace was adorned with gleaming cauldrons, ancient recipe books, and a variety of enchanted utensils that hummed with residual magical energy. A large copper griddle, engraved with arcane symbols, was set over a magical flame that responded to the chef's every command.
Despite not knowing what it was from, Von began by choosing one of the fist-sized speckled yellow eggs. The chef carefully cracked the egg into a silver bowl before whispering incantations to enhance its natural flavors and imbue it with a touch of magical essence. The egg shimmered with a faint glow as they awaited their transformation.
Not knowing what all of the herbs with, he felt he could rely on the chef's expertise to make the breakfast perfect, so instead of choosing from the vegetables and herbs himself, he simply asked the chef to, "Please, you are the expert here, I know you can make something delightful from the egg I chose. Please do so."
The chef smiles in delight as he got to show off his prowess to the newcomer. "I will be happy to, young man." Continuing to smile, the chef turned his attention to the well laid out collection of vegetables, herbs, and greens. picking several along with a small tomato, onion, and other items, the chef's skilled hands moved with precision as he chopped, diced, and minced the ingredients, infusing each with a touch of magical enhancement.
The omelet pan, a gleaming silver surface enchanted to heat evenly and prevent sticking, was coated with a blend of magical oils and herbs. The chef's hand danced through the air as he summoned the flames beneath the griddle, adjusting their intensity with a flick of his wrist. The air filled with the sizzling sounds of the enchanted ingredients meeting the heated surface.
With a flourish of choromancy, the chef poured the prepared egg onto the griddle, creating the base for the omelet. The egg sizzled and bubbled as the magical flame beneath responded to the chef's control. He deftly swirled the eggs around the pan, ensuring an even cook and a light, fluffy texture. As the eggs began to set, the chef added the carefully prepared fillings. He sprinkled enchanted mushrooms which changed color with each flip. Adding the pieces of the celestial tomato, they released a burst of sweetness, and the herbs infused the air with a tantalizing aroma. The chef's hand continued to perform intricate patterns over the griddle, guiding the omelet into a perfect crescent shape.
The final touch involved his selection of magical cheeses, each with unique properties. The chef grated them with a swift motion of his hand before layering them onto one side of the omelet. The cheeses melted into a gooey, savory blend, creating a symphony of flavors he felt would delight the palate of the young diner.
With a graceful flip, the chef folded the omelet in half, ensuring the fillings were nestled within the fluffy egg layers. The omelet levitated briefly above the griddle then slid onto a waiting plate, which he passed along to the boy in front of him. "I believe you will find this to be a masterpiece of flavor to delight your tastebuds." He said turning his grin into a full smile.
Delighted in more ways than one, Von took the plate to the long table near the side where Monica was seated enjoying a bowl of yogurt containing a mixture of fruits, grains and nuts with a long piece of toast with what appeared to be avocado with herbs spread across the top.
Cutting into the "magical" omelet, a symphony of flavors unfolded, creating a culinary experience transcending the ordinary. The first bite was a revelation, a harmonious blend of enchanted ingredients dancing on the palate like a spell in motion. The eggs, at the core of the omelet, were a canvas for the magical medley. Their delicate texture and rich, velvety taste formed the foundation of each bite, providing a comforting warmth hinting at the mystical essence within. As Von savored the initial mouthful, the eggs revealed a subtle infusion of celestial energy, leaving a lingering sweetness harmonizing with the savory undertones to create a delightful balance.
The enchanted mushrooms, with their illusionary properties, added a playful element to the omelet. With every chew, the mushrooms morphed in color, creating a kaleidoscope of visual intrigue mirroring the diverse spectrum of flavors. Earthy and robust, the mushrooms contributed a depth complementing the ethereal essence of the eggs, grounding the overall experience with their enchanting presence.
The celestial tomatoes, bursting with flavor, provided a juicy and refreshing contrast. Each bite released a burst of sweetness, like a burst of magical sunlight captured within the ruby-red orbs. The tomatoes added a vibrant and succulent quality to the omelet, infusing it with a garden-fresh taste heightening the overall sensory experience.
The finely minced enchanted herbs, lent an aromatic complexity to the omelet. With each intake of breath, he could feel the essence of the university's magical herb garden, where the fragrance of basil, thyme, and other herbs melded into a symphony of scents. These herbs not only adorned the omelet with visual appeal but contributed nuanced layers of flavor as they unfolded gradually while being eaten.
The variety of cheeses chosen by the chef were melted and interwoven within the layers of the omelet, provided a decadent richness. As they melted, they created a velvety texture coating Von's palate and offering a luxurious and savory experience. Each variety of cheese brought its unique character—some imparting a nutty undertone, others a sharp tang. Together, they created a delightful interplay of flavors enhancing the overall enchantment.
The culinary journey continued with each successive bite, as he discovered the intricate interplay of flavors. The omelet was not merely a combination of ingredients but a carefully crafted composition unfolding like a magical scroll, revealing new nuances with every taste. The levity of the eggs, the earthiness of the mushrooms, the sweetness of the celestial tomatoes, the aromatic herbs, and the decadent richness of the cheeses—each element played a role in the symphonic convergence of flavors.
As he savored the last forkful, the enchantment lingered on the palate, leaving a sense of satisfaction and wonder. This magical omelet provided a magical culinary journey, allowing him to partake in the mystical melting-pot of flavors woven within its folds.
Von was startled to realize the food truly was enchanted, and why so many students were enjoying breakfast. It really was the most important meal of the day. He started to mention it to Monica, but realized she had a blissful look on her face as she neared the end of her yogurt.