Not everyone welcomed Elias' success. Renowned chefs in the capital viewed him as an upstart and plotted to tarnish his reputation. One evening, a rival chef named Valier challenged Elias to a public cooking duel.
"If you truly deserve your fame, you'll face me!" Valier sneered.
Elias, always up for a challenge, accepted. The duel was held in the royal courtyard, with the king, nobles, and commoners watching eagerly.
The theme was "fusion cuisine." Valier crafted an elaborate dish combining exotic meats and rare spices, his presentation flawless. But Elias focused on simplicity and heart, creating a dish inspired by his family's roots—a hearty stew infused with a touch of magic that brought warmth and energy to anyone who tasted it.
The judges were moved, some even shedding tears. Valier's dish was impressive, but Elias' food connected with people on a personal level. He won the duel decisively, earning the admiration of all present.