Infinite Awakening: My Exp Doubles Everyday novel Chapter 45

Chapter 45: Spirit Flame

The golden sunlight poured over the training grounds as Xiang Yu and Li Yao continued their relentless sparring. Steel clashed against steel in a rhythmic symphony of combat, their movements growing more fluid with each exchange. Neither disciple showed any sign of yielding as the morning sun climbed higher, its rays intensifying from gentle warmth to scorching heat. Their dedication remained unwavering, sweat glistening on their brows as they pushed each other to new limits.

Only when the sun reached its zenith, signaling the lunch hour, did they finally lower their weapons. With practiced synchronization, they sheathed their blades and made their way toward the kitchen.

Inside the kitchen, Xiang Yu moved with a grace that hadn’t been present before. His newly elevated 8th Grade cooking skill manifested in every precise movement of his hands. The knife in his grip became an extension of himself, slicing through vegetables and meat with surgical precision. Each cut was measured perfectly, each ingredient prepared with mathematical exactness that bordered on artistry.

Li Yao, initially tasked with washing vegetables, found herself transfixed by her senior brother’s performance. Her hands stilled over the basin as she watched him work, mesmerized by the professionalism. He looked like a master craftsman at work. His movements flowed with elegant efficiency, economical yet somehow beautiful in their precision.

When he slid open the lid of the final dish, steam billowed forth in fragrant clouds. The aroma spread throughout the Mountain Heart Pavilion like an invisible summons, rich and complex with layered notes that promised extraordinary flavor. Almost immediately, the padding of footsteps announced the arrival of Elder Guo and Elder Huang, drawn by the irresistible scent.

As the dishes were arranged on the table, anticipation hung heavy in the air. The moment Elder Guo gave his customary nod of approval, everyone eagerly reached for their chopsticks, impatient to begin.

Elder Guo stared at the meal before him with widening eyes. "This is..." The words died in his throat as he observed something extraordinary. Though not true spiritual food, the dishes possessed qualities that transcended ordinary cuisine. The ambient qi in the atmosphere seemed drawn to the food, wisps of energy attaching themselves to the expertly prepared ingredients.

Unable to resist any longer, he seized his chopsticks and attacked the meal with uncharacteristic haste. After clearing his plate with impressive speed, a satisfied burp escaped him. He could feel the qi from the meal spreading slowly into his dantian, like gentle ripples in a pond. Though not as effective as proper cultivation, the sensation was undeniably pleasurable—his spiritual energy increasing, however marginally, simply from enjoying a meal.

When Elder Huang finished her portion, her expression darkened as she stared at her empty plate. The pavilion fell silent as everyone turned toward her, confusion evident on their faces. Without warning, she rose from her seat, the sudden movement startling Elder Guo beside her. With deliberate steps, she approached Xiang Yu and stood before him.

"Martial aunt?" Xiang Yu questioned, uncertainty in his voice.

She placed her hand on his shoulder, and to everyone’s shock, tears began streaming down her face. "This shi is so magnificent," she declared with emotional intensity.

Suddenly aware of her undignified display, she hastily wiped away her tears. "It seems martial nephew’s cooking has achieved a breakthrough," she observed, composing herself. "It’s such a pity you don’t have a spiritual root, so you can’t make real spiritual food." A smile spread across her face. "But I have just the solution for you."

Elder Guo stood abruptly. "You mean..."

Before he could finish, she continued, "That’s right, there’s a spirit fire I acquired back when I was young, but I kept it since it wasn’t compatible with me." Her eyes gleamed with enthusiasm. "After seeing your talent, I’ve decided you’re the only person worthy of wielding this spirit flame." Fresh tears streamed down her face, as though she’d finally found a worthy successor.

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