第１５１３堀：粉ものは意外と腹に溜まる (Part1)
### Chapter 1513: Flour-based foods are surprisingly filling
Side: Ratz
*Sizzle...*
The sound, accompanied by the savory aroma of sauce, drifted through the air as the older brother checked the doneness with his spatula.
"So, I think you've had a moment to catch your breath. Mind if we talk now?"
"Yes. That’s fine."
I checked in with Canaria.
Though she maintained an expressionless face, she was surprisingly proactive, devouring her meal with gusto. It was the kind of hearty appetite that was a pleasure to watch. Any more of it, and I’d have felt heartburn just from looking. Perhaps that’s why he suggested we eat the okonomiyaki first.
At any rate, I was relieved to see that she wasn't going to waste away from a lack of appetite. I had heard the stories from Ria and Dressa, but seeing the person herself was a different matter entirely. Still, her appetite was truly staggering...
"Say, if those reports are true, why hasn't her figure changed at all?"
Eris leaned in close and whispered to me. I understood the sentiment perfectly. Despite the sheer volume of food she consumed, her physique remained impeccable. One might call it a magnificent figure, befitting a former princess. Well, perhaps slightly inferior to a well-nourished rabbit-kin, but by any normal standard, she was in top-tier shape.
Setting that aside, as for why she hadn't gained weight...
"Well, it’s only been about five days since she arrived here, right? She wouldn't change overnight. Besides, I heard she does exercise."
As we muttered back and forth, Dressa, who had stepped away from the table, must have overheard us as she walked by.
"Oh, that’s right. Canaria is the type who moves as much as she eats. And she can actually hold her own in a fight, too."
"Eh? Really?"
"Why is that?"
Just as I was asking Dressa, the conversation between the older brother and Canaria drifted into earshot.
"...And so, I have been honing my martial arts to protect myself. Of course, it’s also because I admire Lady Seraria."
"I see. Well, considering the situation in your country at the time, wanting to be a bit stronger makes sense."
"That’s true. When even your own subjects and vassals might turn into enemies, making yourself strong is a fundamental necessity. Though, you admire me? That’s the border between Litea and Rumel, isn't it? Does word of me really reach that far?"
"Yes. Lady Seraria’s heroic reputation reached even there. I heard many stories about you, especially during the diplomatic greetings in Litea and Rumel."
"Ah, I see. That makes sense."
I see—a mix of necessity due to the state of the country and genuine admiration for Seraria. That explained the exercise and the lack of weight gain.
"So, how is your skill? You’ve been sparring, haven't you?"
"Yes. Ria and I have been acting as her partners for exercise—or rather, training. It seems she couldn't do much when she was a slave, so she’s been moving quite vigorously. As for her skill, well, it’s just something she’s dabbled in. Her level is only a little over 10, so it’s appropriate for that."
At level 10, she wouldn't be a match for Dressa, let alone Ria. She might have an edge in technique or strategy, but the foundation was just too different. Still, the older brother would probably handle her regardless. When he slips out of sight, he really can do anything. Is he a prankster, or is this just him showing his true colors? Isn't it strange that the one thing the older brother is "weakest" at is a one-on-one match with rules?
While I was getting the scoop on Canaria from Dressa, the older brother and the others pushed the conversation forward.
"Alright, just add the sauce and toppings. Now, Canaria, do you actually know where the treasure is?"
Oh, he went straight for the core of the matter. Though, I suppose doing it in an okonomiyaki shop is a bit unconventional, even if the atmosphere is solemn...
"To say I 'know' might be a bit inaccurate. What I possess is a legend."
"A legend?"
"Yes. 'When crisis approaches Vinoshia, take hold of the Great Secret Treasure.' That is what I have been told."
"Sounds like a fairy tale you’d hear anywhere. Any specific location?"
"Ah, wait. Let me cut it up."
At the perfect moment, the older brother called a halt, skillfully dividing the okonomiyaki with his spatula. There were five large pancakes on the iron plate. They were quite hefty, too. Hmm, there were fewer of us than that, but would we be able to finish them all? Still, I wanted to try both the pork and the seafood ones. I made sure to secure my share. As for Canaria, she claimed a piece of every variety.
"Here you go. Dig in. If you need more sauce or mayo, adjust it yourself."
"Understood."
"Everyone, let's eat."
Well, food is best when it's fresh. Everyone fell silent, focusing on the okonomiyaki before them. As the piping hot food hit my tongue, a wave of happiness washed over me. Why is it that something as simple as cabbage, flour, and a few toppings mixed and grilled can be this delicious? I know there’s dashi in the batter, but there’s something about the casual nature of letting the diners cook it themselves that makes it so fun—and genuinely tasty.
"It’s delicious, isn't it?"
"Isn't it though?"
I nodded honestly at Eris’s comment. I’ve eaten plenty of Earth’s food, but this was truly top-tier. Everyone here seemed to share the same opinion, eating with beaming smiles.
"Hah... hah... It’s hot, but it’s good."
"Lowell, you’re going to burn yourself."
"It’s best while it’s hot, isn't it?"
"Well, I suppose that’s true. Hah..."
Seraria and Lowell were shoveling the hot okonomiyaki into their mouths without a care. I hope they don't burn themselves!
"Hah, hah, hah."
They were eating without restraint. They really do have impressive appetites. With my current stomach capacity, two more slices would be my limit. If I eat until I'm stuffed, it’ll ruin my appetite for dinner.
Twenty minutes passed, and the iron plate was empty.
"Phew, that hit the spot. I’ve got dinner later, so I’m good with this much. How about you, Seraria?"
"I’m fine with this much, too. How about you, Lowell?"
"Hmm. I’m good as well. What about you, Canaria? You said you’d have more if you could, didn't you?"
"In that case, may I have a second helping of yakisoba? If I eat any more okonomiyaki, I fear I won't be able to enjoy dinner."
"Sure. Which one do you want?"