Chapter 5: The Big Test
As lunchtime approached, the inn buzzed with anticipation. Villagers crowded outside, craning their necks to catch a glimpse of the mayor and his entourage. Inside, Han Li paced nervously in the kitchen.
The mayor, a barrel-chested man with a booming voice, arrived with two finely dressed guests in tow. Auntie Mei greeted them with exaggerated politeness, ushering them to a table with the best view of the room.
"Radish spirals," Auntie Mei announced, placing the appetizer in front of the mayor.
The entire room fell silent as the mayor picked up a delicate radish flower with his chopsticks. He examined it, sniffed it, and finally took a bite.
For a moment, no one breathed. Then the mayor's face lit up with delight. "Magnificent!" he declared, his voice echoing through the inn.
The villagers outside erupted into cheers, and Auntie Mei gave Han Li a rare nod of approval.
The rest of the meal went off without a hitch. The thunder herb soup was a surprise hit, with the mayor's guests praising its unique flavor. But it was the peach tart that stole the show.
"Who made this?" the mayor demanded after his first bite.
"The boy in the kitchen," Auntie Mei said, jerking her thumb in Han Li's direction.
"Bring him out here!"
Han Li reluctantly stepped out from the kitchen, wiping his hands on his apron. The mayor eyed him up and down before slapping the table. "You've got talent, boy. Have you considered working in the city?"
Han Li hesitated, unsure how to respond. "I… hadn't thought about it."
"Well, think about it!" the mayor said with a grin. "With food like this, you could make a fortune."