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Everything only in the microwave? What about a pot, boiling, no?
I used to cook when I lived in another house. Even bought pots for it. But then I got fed up with it. This activity annoys me way too much. Plus the time — better to play some exp. Besides, at the new place the kitchen isn't really suited for boiling and especially frying unless it's an alt girl of course. But as I said, the stores here have everything ready-made: boiled, fried, smoked, with seasonings, with sauces, or completely plain — just boiled meat. And money-wise there's almost no difference.
If everything is ready-made, affordable, and harmless, then I guess it's fine. My husband and I ourselves ate supermarket and cafeteria food for quite a while after our daughter was born. Only in the last 2-3 months have I had the chance to cook. And even then, sometimes with a ton of hassle under the kid's displeased wailing.
Some time later, Lord Adalard Grimm is approached by the ruler of Kabochi, Grimban Odolerus, and while the big and little lords chatted about their own matters, Stephanie found herself in the company of the Knight of Milk Chocolate.
- Chonchonlia Quintea, - introduced the kabochi woman, her height being only 25 tin, so surely the Knight of Wind looked down on her. - Pleased to meet you!
— Stephanie Valentine, — greeted the girl, the Knight of Wind. — Likewise!
Stephanie smiled at the knight from Kabochi, but continued to carry out Adalard's decree and keep an eye on the mercenary.
Only the extravagance of today's celebration and the most important date in modern Tezoth — Deus's birthday — could rival Kalamention in beauty and grandeur. Nominally, it was a tribute to the ruler and a symbol of the kingdom's unity, but in reality it was so only for the capital's residents. While the invited lords and their retinues basked in luxury and the contented Kanami citizens gave themselves over to festive revelry, life in the other regions continued to flow as before — the noble warriors of Sordgard and Lamente still kept their watch, guarding the kingdom's peace from encroachments out of the crater, but few cared about that. On the contrary — part of the defenders had been summoned here as unwilling participants in today's farce. That said, Alaria felt no ill will toward Mariarnelia — she herself was bound by the constraints of her station and, in a sense, was a hostage of the situation.
Having become a Knight of Catharsis relatively recently, the warrior had not previously taken part in such events — seeing the most influential people of Tezoth gathered under one roof was a first for her. Most of them she had never even seen in person before. This was one of the reasons her liege's approach appealed to her — the position of a quiet observer who drew no undue attention suited her just fine.
There goes Karneya Kaikunia Iretiret, fully living up to her notorious reputation. And there is Lord Adalard — likely the second most powerful man in the empire, after Deus himself — in the company of his son. Whether he is preparing his heir for high society or scheming to betroth him to the guest of honor in an effort to expand his influence. An expected and logical move — from the standpoint of political marriages, there aren't many better candidates. Clearly not something to be dismissed out of hand.
For the Tanarsian herself, the one who stood out most among them all was the local fanatic — Man of Sanborn — but decidedly not in a positive light. There was something repulsive about that procession, as if even today's visit he was using solely as an opportunity to praise his idol. At the same time, the absence of a knight in his retinue looked remarkably suspicious. Given the opportunistic nature of the Lord of Sanborn, this certainly boded no good, especially for his neighbors.
One after another, the guests came and went, and for each of them the Knight of Catharsis made various notes in her mental journal, trying to remember their faces, habits, and bearing, not neglecting to observe even the entourages of the distinguished figures. You never know with whom your lord might choose to do business in the future, or who might gain a new domain in a year or two.
That said, she did not forget to keep an eye on her own surroundings, standing by Lord Cartridge's side like a vigilant guardian. Protecting her liege was still one of her direct duties, and Alaria had no intention of neglecting it.
While Alaria observed and pondered what was happening, one of the guests approached her — a man who, it seemed, was not very literate and, due to Lord Cartridge's plain attire, did not recognize him as the ruler of the region.
- Knight of the Golden Coin, "Milord" Galaharadron! - He introduced himself, thumping his hairy chest. - I came up with this name myself, pretty awesome, right? Decided a plain name just wouldn't have enough prestige.
- Perhaps. - Cartridge agreed without noticeable interest. - Knowing how to present oneself properly is a valuable asset.
- You bet you bet! You get it, buddy!
- Speaking of getting things, I'd recommend not overindulging in the food, or else should the need arise, you might run into difficulties of a survival nature.
- Ahahah! - The interlocutor shows a scar on his belly. - This gut has seen a lot, surviving dangers is nothing new to me!
Well, if anyone wants to put together a character list, I'm all for it) I have no idea when I'll get around to it.
I'll try to do it within the next day or two. I was also thinking of gathering all the questions and answers about skills and inserting them as a spoiler under the skills section in your post — would you be okay with that? Though I have no idea if I'll manage both tasks over the weekend.
Neiko
If it's all ready-made, convenient, and harmless, then I guess it's fine. My husband and I ate supermarket and cafeteria food for quite a while after our daughter was born. It's only been the last 2-3 months that I've had the chance to cook. And even then, sometimes with a ton of hassle amid a child's displeased wailing.
I stopped worrying about the harmfulness in terms of various additives and such. They're in all food by default anyway, given how it's grown. To have something harmless, you'd have to live on a farm far from civilization, somewhere in Argentina, and grow everything yourself. Too complicated, too tedious, too expensive, and most likely even impossible.
Небо – мольбы не ждёт Небо – угроз не слышит Небо – ведёт особый счёт Небо – тебя найдёт
Tsiel merely clasped her palms together and smiled warmly, believing that at this moment there would be nothing better than to behold the dance of the young.
— I would be honored to to respond to your gracious offer, my lord. — the sincere moon accepts the palm.
A slight ripple runs down her spine at the touch, but perhaps no one intends to plunge a treacherous blade right now.
Arnold's left hand clasps Alsira's right hand in a lock at the level of her eyes, his right touches her shoulder blade and supports her back — the confident and precise movements of the partner demonstratively declare his rich experience in this field. His feet set them both into elegant motion — the Knight of Sincerity does not avert his gaze from the scarlet eyes, his hands do not abuse the situation, every action of his is filled with grace and attention to his partner.
- The most beautiful of lords is concerned about the threat looming over Tezoth's future. - Following his promise, the Knight of Sincerity decided to speak of matters in Tenerezz. - The Iron Lord crossed an unforgivable line by spilling brown paint onto the kingdom's map. Perhaps now others will follow his example? Her Magnificence is beset by doubts, but the window for action narrows with each passing day.
I was also thinking of gathering all the questions and answers about skills and putting them in a spoiler under the skills in your post, would you mind? Though I have no idea if I'll manage both tasks over the weekend.
Rezara studied in detail how a huge... steak went down the throat of Sir Gingkink Ardelysot, and sighed heavily.
– That's possible. But Lord Afortek is wise. He couldn't have fallen into such an obvious trap, could he? – Rezara thought highly of the lord. – Your father has seen many monsters in his lifetime, and he's certainly no stranger to the treachery of anything that is even slightly distinguishable from a man.
And as for the treachery of anything that looks completely human, that goes without saying.
- Let's hope so.
A Knight of Perfection rides up to the pair - Lorican Dalesid.
- Lady Adata, Lady Emsia desires your presence.
- Whatever she desires. If she needs something - let her use her own legs. - Adata's foul mood had not improved. - You know what, my lord Lorican, how did you come by such a title? There's nothing remotely perfect about you, as far as I can see.
- That is the mystery of my life to me as well, my lady.
- Hmph. Even insults you react to with dullness. Be off with you.
I stopped worrying about harmfulness in terms of various additives and such. They're already in all food by default, given how it's grown. To have something harmless, you'd have to live on a farm far from civilization, somewhere in Argentina, and grow everything yourself. Too complicated, too tedious, too expensive, most likely even impossible.
Bro, switch to a diet: steaks, eggs, cheese (if you have the real stuff, not a cheese-containing product), vegetables, and fruit if you want. And everything will be great for you.
Sometimes you can throw in some buckwheat or Greek yogurt, or even avocado, but that's up to your taste. Instead of steaks, if you're really short on funds at the moment, you can grab some lower-tier poultry — the fillet specifically — but overall there shouldn't be any problems.
- Such an event doesn't happen every day; surely His Lordship would want to exchange pleasantries with other lords as well. Being a man of such caliber imposes certain expectations from society, just as it does on us - ours, compared to those less close to him, - Lester nodded in confirmation of his own words. - Let us proceed, milady Nelia. Today is meant for rest.
Having invited her toward the little cake, he stroked his beard.
- You call him "elder," but he looks young; another man might take him for your older brother. If only everyone had such genetics.
- That is precisely what I worry about most - what if he pulls something like that and tomorrow war is declared on our little village?.. If only you could see his body! There's not a single unscathed spot left; it's all scars from endless adventures and battles up north... - Remembering where she was, Radost reflexively covered her own mouth with her palm. - Oh... You, milord, didn't hear that, did you? Please...
She silently approaches the table and hesitantly reaches her hand toward the treats, then finally takes a dessert spoon and tries to eat away the stress and lower her cortisol levels.
Some time later, Lord Adalard Grimm is approached by the ruler of Kabochi, Grimban Odolerus, and while the big and little lords chatted about their own matters, Stefania found herself in the company of the Knight of Milk Chocolate.
- Chonchonlia Quintea, - the Kabochi woman introduced herself, standing only 25 tin tall, so the Knight of Wind was surely looking down at her. - Pleased to meet you!
— Stefania Valentine, — the Knight of Wind greeted the girl. — Likewise!
Stefania smiled at the knight from Kabochi, but continued to carry out Adalard's decree and keep an eye on the mercenary.
The mercenary continued conversing with young Grimm about something. Judging by the emotions on the young man's face, talking with this person brought him great pleasure — a blush even appeared on his cheeks.
I stopped stressing about harmfulness in terms of various additives and such. They're already in all food by default, given how it's grown. To have something harmless, you'd have to live on a farm far from civilization, somewhere in Argentina, and grow everything yourself. Too complicated, too tedious, too expensive, most likely even impossible.
Bro, switch to a diet: steaks, eggs, cheese (if you have the real stuff, not a cheese-containing product), vegetables, and fruit if you want. And everything will be great for you.
Sometimes you can throw in some buckwheat or Greek yogurt, or even avocado, but that's up to your taste. Instead of steaks, if you're really short on funds at the moment, you can grab something a bit lower-tier like poultry — the fillet specifically — but overall there shouldn't be any problems.
Those steaks of yours are overrated. Besides, you have to cook them. It's fine to stick with turkey and chicken, plus tuna and salmon. And I already eat eggs, vegetables, and fruit; cheese doesn't really do it for me.
Небо – мольбы не ждёт Небо – угроз не слышит Небо – ведёт особый счёт Небо – тебя найдёт
-- Until the path is complete, counting steps is meaningless
The horizon's vision is always deceptive
Perhaps tomorrow the wheel of fortune will turn again
And our horses will trample the North into dust
And we will crown our spears with the heads of Sithia's wicked children
And the day after, it all begins anew
Perhaps the weak will become strong, the strong -- weak
None among mortals can escape the chains
Of blind fate. The future is hazy, the past is hidden
What could have been shall never be.
Shame for one's feelings befits only the base-born
Far more terrible is the emptiness within the soul
If life is short and holds no constancy
Only the wild impulses of the spirit shall affirm
Our existence. What need have we of the sweetness of wine
And the gleam of beautiful eyes, and the light of the sun
And the spires of stone-hard palaces, when there remains
No living soul, whether it be in sorrow
Or in joy. While living thought
Has not abandoned the world, we may affirm
That our lives were not in vain, though now
The burden of existence may seem meaningless,
Whose reflection, alas, I observe in the depths of beautiful eyes
Perhaps we shall yet have to drain the cup of woes
But to be or not to be is not the question
In faithful service to You, while the heart still beats,
I gladly greet the new dawn
- What magnificent words! - Alas, the compliment did not belong to Deus, who, though clearly pleased by what was said, lacked the speed to react in time - the guest who appeared within the field of view of the knights of Hegemony and Gloomy Sky took the floor first. - Your Grandeur is most fortunate to have such a talented servant in your ranks!
With her arrival, the music playing in the spacious hall shifted to a new melody, as if welcoming her entrance. But, of course, it was merely a simple coincidence - for she was but one of the insignificant persons who had arrived in Paradelus in the company of Lord Osha. What significance could she hold?
Only the excess of today's celebration and the most important date of modern Tezoth — the birthday of Deus — could rival Calamention in beauty and grandeur. Nominally, it was a tribute to the ruler and a symbol of the kingdom's unity, but in reality it was so only for the capital's residents. While invited lords with their retinues basked in luxury and content Kanami citizens gave themselves over to solemn festivities, life in the other regions continued to flow as before — the noble warriors of Swordgard and Lamente still stood their watch, guarding the kingdom's peace from encroachments from the crater, but few cared about that. On the contrary — some of the defenders had been summoned here as unwilling participants in today's farce. That said, Alaria felt no negativity toward Mariarnelia — she herself was bound by the constraints of her status and, in a sense, was a hostage of the situation.
Having become a Knight of Catharsis relatively recently, the warrior had not participated in such events before — seeing the most influential people of Tezoth gathered under one roof was a first for her. Most of them she had never even seen in person. This was one of the reasons she favored her liege's approach — the position of a quiet observer who drew no undue attention suited her just fine.
There goes Carnea Caicunia Iretiret, fully living up to her notorious reputation. And there is Lord Adalard — likely the second most powerful man in the empire, after Deus himself — in the company of his son. Whether he is preparing the heir for high society or scheming to betroth him to the guest of honor in an effort to expand his influence. An expected and logical move — from the standpoint of political marriages, there aren't many better candidates. Clearly not something to be dismissed out of hand.
For the Tanarsian herself, the one who stood out most among them all was the local fanatic — Man of Sanbornia — but hardly in a positive light. There was something repulsive about that procession, as if even today's visit was used solely as an opportunity to praise his idol. At the same time, the absence of a knight in his retinue looked unusually suspicious. Given the opportunistic nature of the Lord of Sanbornia, this boded nothing good, especially for his neighbors.
One after another, the guests came and went, and for each of them the Knight of Catharsis made various notes in her mental journal, trying to remember their faces, habits, and bearing, not neglecting to observe even the escorts of the notable figures. You never know who your lord might decide to do business with in the future, or who might gain a new domain in a year or two.
That said, she did not forget to keep an eye on her own surroundings, staying close to Lord Cartridge like a vigilant guardian. Protecting her liege was still one of her direct duties, and Alaria had no intention of neglecting it.
While Alaria observed and pondered what was happening, one of the guests approached her. He seemed to be not very literate and, due to Lord Cartridge's plain attire, failed to recognize him as the ruler of the region.
- Knight of the Golden Coin, "Milord" Galaharadron! - He introduced himself, thumping his hairy chest. - I came up with this name myself, pretty awesome, right? Decided a plain name wouldn't have enough prestige.
- Perhaps. - Cartridge agreed without noticeable interest. - The ability to present oneself well is a valuable resource.
- You bet you bet! You get it, buddy!
- Speaking of getting things, I'd recommend not overindulging in the dishes, or else should the need arise, you might face difficulties of a survival nature.
- Ahahah! - The interlocutor shows a scar on his belly. - This gut has seen a lot, I'm no stranger to surviving dangers!
Protecting one's lord from bandits is a vassal's duty. But Alaria would never have thought that this would happen at an important event, and that the villain would press in not with weapons in hand, but with bad manners and poor jokes. One could have hinted that he had mistaken his man, the fool, and was speaking to a lord. But there were reasons why Cartridge himself did not do so — likely, he did not want to draw unnecessary attention to himself or stir up polemics. And so it was not her place to remind him of that either, when a more elegant solution was at hand — she could simply divert the Knight of Faredjia's attention to herself, so that her liege could indulge in his deep thoughts without such annoying buzzing under his nose.
— It is always a pleasure to meet someone with such a refined name, — the Tanarsian said with a wide smile, placing her fist to her chest and giving a welcoming nod, — allow me to introduce myself, Alaria Doran, Knight of Catharsis.
She looked with interest at the scar that the Knight of the Golden Coin so proudly thrust forward. In Alaria's opinion, if one compared a person to a book, then scars were its text. Each of them carries some story, albeit sometimes insignificant. Sometimes they are tied to victories. Sometimes to defeats. But a fact was a fact to her — they truly were nothing to be ashamed of.
— Impressive, — the warrior nodded with a knowing look, — I am certain the foe who left that scar was truly mighty and dangerous. Would you care to tell me how you came by it?
- To whom have I the pleasure of speaking? - Mariarnelia asks.
- Revaniel, Your Grandeur. Merely a humble priestess of the Dawn Raven, arrived here straight from Duskwing, home to all our few followers.
- Ah... - This worldview apparently did not occupy any significant part of the royal person's consciousness.
- If Your Grandeur's heart holds the generosity to accept my humble gift, it would delight me to the very depths of my soul!
Revaniel kneels and presents the Deus with a pitch-black box adorned with golden patterns.
Before Deus even thought of reaching for the box, Axel steps between the gift and the queen. He scans for servants whose duty it is to check such items for safety.
Небо – мольбы не ждёт Небо – угроз не слышит Небо – ведёт особый счёт Небо – тебя найдёт