| Author: Eltria | Original Source: Syosetu |
| Translator: Mui | English Source: Re:Library |
| Editor(s): Robinxen | |
“Ho ho ho. This is the taste of my homeland. Thanks to your frying pan, I’m able to make a dish that satisfies me. So, how was it? Do you think you can make it?” Tao Ran asked.
“I’ll give it a try,” I responded, though internally I was eager to make it myself. Holding back my excitement, I transferred the finished chahan to a large plate and washed the now-empty frying pan.
Having an automatic cleaning function had become so normal to me that I rarely appreciated it, but moments like this reminded me of its convenience.
Standing in front of the magic stove with renewed enthusiasm, I followed the steps Tao Ran had demonstrated.
“Isn’t it fun? Back home, skilled chefs use high heat to cook this quickly, but it’s nice that this frying pan makes it easy,” Tao Ran remarked, eyes crinkling with genuine happiness.
“It certainly is interesting, Teacher. This is my first time experiencing this,” I replied.
I realized that using this frying pan to evaporate the moisture from the Canado rice, creating a fluffy texture, was a unique aspect of this cooking method.
As I stirred, the rice, vegetables, and eggs blended evenly, resulting in chahan that looked just like Tao Ran’s. I asked him to taste it.
“Well, well. It has a gentler flavor than mine. It’s clear that you thought about the people who will be eating it,” he said.
“…Thank you,” I replied, feeling slightly embarrassed but pleased that my intention to fill Alfe and Hom’s stomachs had been recognized.
“No need to thank me. In fact, I should be thanking you, Miss Leafa, for showing such personal growth over these five days,” Tao Ran reflected.
His words made my chest ache slightly. I felt ashamed of how childishly I had treated Hom.
“….You saw right through me, huh?”
“I’ve lived a long life, after all, ho ho ho.”
“Thank you very much for everything, Teacher. Words alone cannot express my gratitude,” I said, feeling frustrated by my inability to fully convey my feelings. I bowed deeply, and Tao Ran patted my back, indicating that my thanks were sufficient.
“This isn’t a final farewell. Feel free to visit anytime. I’ve grown fond of this city and plan to stay here for a long while,” Tao Ran said.
“Thank you. I’ll bring Hom with me too,” I replied.
Hom would be delighted. She needed someone other than me who understood her. It was beneficial for her to have multiple trustworthy people in her life.
“And Miss Alfe, too. Having her around makes me feel like I’ve gained a grandchild,” Tao Ran added.
“Yes, Alfe will come with us as well—there’ll be the three of us,” I promised.
“Please do,” he said, extending his hand with a warm smile. I grasped Tao Ran’s large, wrinkled hand firmly with both of mine, sealing our promise.
The chahan for lunch was a big hit with Alfe and Hom. They both had multiple servings, and the entire prepared portion was gone in no time. Hom quickly took the initiative to clean up after the meal, and we refreshed ourselves with Canado-style cold, fragrant tea.
“…now then, since we’re all full now, let’s call an end to this training camp,” Tao Ran announced.
The five-day camp had come to an end. Hom had learned everything she needed and made it her own.
“Thank you very much for everything, Teacher,” I said, bowing deeply.
Beside me, Alfe fidgeted, looking reluctant to leave.
“…Grandpa, can we visit again?” she asked hesitantly.
“Of course. Next time, how about you teach me some magic, Miss Alfe?” Tao Ran’s unexpected suggestion made Alfe’s eyes sparkle with excitement. She bounced slightly, showing her joy.
“I’ll have to study hard enough to teach you, Grandpa. I’ll do my best,” Alfe declared.
“I look forward to seeing that talent of yours blossom. Allow this old man to watch over the growth of all three of you.”
Tao Ran’s words were always straightforward and sincere. I took a moment to absorb the meaning behind his words, then nodded slowly.
“I promise, Teacher.”
“Me too!” Alfe chimed in energetically, raising her hand in a lively declaration. After our affirmations, Hom knelt down and respectfully bowed her head.
“I will give my utmost effort. Please take care of yourself as well, Teacher.”
“Then I’ll eagerly await our next meeting. Stay well, Miss Hom,” Tao Ran said, gently patting Hom’s head. Hom closed her eyes and nodded, savoring the comforting touch1.
