Cedric focused intently on the puzzle before him, the faint glow of the symbols illuminating the dim shrine. He felt the rhythm of the game, each click of the mechanism a step closer to unraveling the mystery. As he twisted the pillars, he could almost feel the challenge beckoning him, urging him to push through the frustration and find the solution.
Just as he was about to make another attempt, a growl from his stomach interrupted his concentration. He frowned, glancing down as his appetite made itself known. "Gelian!" he called, still half-focused on the puzzle. "Do you have any food or drinks?"
Gelian, who had been observing from the side, approached with a warm smile. "Of course! We have cup noodles and Koke. They're 50 silver each."
Cedric raised an eyebrow, taken aback. "Isn't that a bit expensive for noodles and a drink?"
Gelian chuckled, sensing the hesitation in Cedric's tone. "I promise you, they're worth it. You won't regret it."
The thought of satisfying his hunger won out over his doubts. "Alright, I'll give it a try," Cedric said, feeling a wave of hunger overshadow his concerns.
Gelian quickly prepared the cup noodles, filling the cup with steaming water and letting it steep. He then retrieved a cold Koke from the fridge. Handing both items to Cedric, he said, "Here you go! Enjoy!"
Cedric looked at the unfamiliar food and drink, curiosity igniting within him. The cup noodles had a simple yet inviting appearance, and the steam rising from the container made his mouth water. He settled down at a nearby table, peeling back the lid.
He took a moment to inhale the aroma before scooping a spoonful of noodles into his mouth. As he tasted it, his eyes widened in astonishment. "Wow! This is incredible!" he exclaimed, savoring the soft, chewy noodles that danced on his palate. "The broth is so rich and flavorful! It's like… it's like a warm hug on a cold day!"
He couldn't help but take another bite, overwhelmed by the comfort of the dish. "Who created this food? It's so good!" he marveled, completely absorbed in the experience.
After finishing the noodles, he moved on to the Koke. He popped the cap open, letting the refreshing scent waft up to greet him. Taking a generous sip, his eyes lit up. "This is… cold but so tasty!" Cedric exclaimed, his excitement bubbling over. "It's fizzy and refreshing! Perfect after those noodles!"
He savored the drink, the sensation dancing on his tongue. Each sip made him want to explore more flavors, and he found himself wishing he could have more. "Can I have another cup of noodles or a Koke?" Cedric asked, hope filling his voice.
Gelian shook his head gently, a smile on his lips. "I'm glad you enjoyed it, but the rules state that you can only have one cup of noodles and one Koke in the morning and one in the afternoon. It's to keep things balanced."
Cedric's enthusiasm waned for a moment as he frowned. "But I can offer money for more! Just one more serving?"
"I understand your desire," Gelian replied sympathetically, "but the system insists on following these rules. It's all part of maintaining balance in the cafe."
Cedric sighed, accepting the limitation but still feeling satisfied with his meal. The flavors lingered on his taste buds, making him appreciate the experience even more. "I guess that makes sense," he said, leaning back in his chair. "It's just so delicious! I'll have to make the most of it."
Feeling rejuvenated from the food, Cedric returned to the puzzle, ready to tackle the challenge with renewed energy. The satisfaction of his meal fueled his determination as he focused back on the glowing symbols, eager to conquer the shrine.
With a smile on his face, he adjusted the mechanism, confident that he would solve the puzzle and unlock the secrets within.
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Gonna be busy for a week.