Rachel served the food to the King. She could feel the weight of the King's gaze upon her, assessing her every move.
The King lifted the bowl to his lips, his expression inscrutable. They held their breath, the silence in the chamber stretching like a taut bowstring. The other Taku warriors watched intently, their eyes flickering between the King and the outsiders, as if the outcome of this moment would determine the fate of all.
With deliberate slowness, the King ate the food. Rachel's heart pounded in her chest as she watched his reaction. For a moment, time seemed to stand still. The King's eyes widened slightly, a flicker of surprise crossing his face. He swallowed, and then he smiled—a slow, deliberate smile that revealed a hint of sharp teeth.
"This is... unexpected," he said, his voice low and rumbling. "You have brought flavors I have never tasted before. It is a bold offering, indeed."
