Japan, 7 PM.
Deep within a bustling food street,
a three-story tavern with a small garden in front stood quietly, exuding a unique charm. The strong and complex aroma of alcohol permeated the street, leaving passersby feeling slightly intoxicated.
As the moon shyly hid behind the clouds, the lanterns hanging outside the tavern lit up, casting a warm yellow glow. The gentle wind carried the soft chime of ceramic wind bells, creating a serene atmosphere. Gradually, more and more customers arrived, drawn by the inviting ambiance.
"Owner!"
"A bottle of peach lychee wine, ten servings of salty smoked meat skewers, and a plate of iron-plate tofu!"
A female office worker, just finishing her long day, entered the tavern. The familiar aroma of alcohol and salty smoked meat greeted her like an old friend. Without hesitation, she found her usual seat and placed her order.
"Okay. Just a moment," replied Chef Zane with a nod.
He turned, retrieving an exquisite bottle of peach lychee wine from the wall-mounted cabinet, and set it before the woman before returning to his station.
Soon, the charcoal beneath the iron grill glowed red. Pre-marinated salty smoked meat skewers sizzled as they were placed near the fire, radiating warmth. The rich aroma of the meat—both salty and slightly sweet—wafted through the air, making it irresistible even without any sauce.
The female office worker inhaled deeply, feeling slightly intoxicated just from the aroma. As the meat cooked, turning firm, Zane brushed it with oil. The fire flared suddenly as the oil dripped onto the glowing charcoal, casting a warm red glow on the skewers and making them look even more appetizing.
The tavern filled with the clinking of glasses and cheerful laughter. When the skewers were done, Zane brushed on a special sauce and sprinkled cumin and chili powder. The already delicious aroma intensified, leaving customers eager to dig in. Paired with the rare peach lychee wine, the taste was unforgettable.
After completing his work, Zane took a clean cloth and carefully wiped his kitchen knife. Upon closer inspection, his reflection—handsome and sharp—was engraved on the mirror-like blade.
Memories flashed through his mind. Zane was once a chef in the Tang Dynasty, starting as an assistant in a five-star hotel. Through years of effort and seizing opportunities, he eventually became a highly respected head chef. Later, he left the hotel to start his own restaurant—a five-story establishment spanning over 250 square meters.
Thanks to his culinary skills and the restaurant's "small profits, quick turnover" approach, it became a booming success. However, a twist of fate brought him to the world of Food Wars!
Here, in this strange new world, gourmet cuisine was a universal obsession. Commoners and nobles alike pursued culinary perfection with fervor. The Totsuki Culinary Academy stood at the pinnacle of culinary excellence in Japan, where its ruthless competition pushed students to master the art of cooking.
As a chef, Zane found his place here by opening a tavern on a busy food street. Operating only between 7 PM and midnight, his establishment quickly became a favorite among locals and travelers.
"Chef Zane, good evening!"
The familiar voice of a beautiful girl in a blue-and-white Totsuki Academy uniform broke his reverie. Zane turned to see Rindō Kobayashi, one of his regular customers.
In the soft lantern light, her ivory-like skin seemed to glow faintly. Her delicate features were framed by her hair, and her mischievous smile revealed a single sharp fang, giving her a playful charm.
"Chef Zane," she said, pouting slightly, "is there something on my face?"
Caught staring, Zane quickly composed himself.
"No, it's just… the gluttonous monster is back again!" he teased.
Rindō giggled. "I missed your cooking!" she declared. "As usual, a bottle of sake for me. I'll also have octopus with mustard, a plate of smoked beef, two servings of tamagoyaki, roasted chicken, and the cold tofu from last time."
Zane smirked, used to her impressive appetite. Despite her petite appearance, Rindō could eat enough for ten people in one sitting.
"Got it! Go grab a seat; it'll be ready shortly," he replied, already heading back to the kitchen.
With a pop, Zane opened the sake bottle. A light, clear aroma wafted out, making Rindō twitch her nose in delight. As the scent filled the air, her entire body seemed to react, a testament to her love for gourmet food.
"Mmm~ this is the scent of sake," she murmured, closing her eyes and savoring the moment.