Food Wars, my food not only glows!

　It's actually quite normal that Subaru Mimasaka can't imitate Hisako Shinto's cooking, because his own skill level isn't up to par, and even if he tries to imitate, it's just a poor imitation.

　A dish developed through time and meticulous refinement of every detail is far more valuable than one that is mindlessly added to other dishes.

　"Isn't it enough in terms of details...?"

　Subaru Mimasaka muttered to himself, a hint of melancholy in his eyes, because the dish he presented in today's competition was already the limit of his ability.

　"Imitate others less. What others have is ultimately theirs. You can learn from them, but you should focus on yourself. Only by learning more and practicing more can you become a master."

　After patting Mimasaka Subaru on the shoulder, Bai Yuan left after saying this.

　Imitating others isn't a bad thing; all chefs start out that way. But blindly imitating others will never make you a master chef.

　"Imitate others less, be yourself more..."

　Looking at Bai Yuan, Mimasaka Subaru's face showed a thoughtful expression. He then glanced at the bustling crowd in the moonlit sky before turning and leaving.

　·

　·

　"Teacher Bai Yuan, I won! I've successfully advanced to the semi-finals! I didn't let you down, did I!~"

　Just as they returned to the entrance of the Moonlit Chamber, preparing to wait for Alice Nakiri and the others to come out, a petite yet voluptuous and graceful figure rushed towards them.

　No sooner said than done, Bai Yuan opened his arms and tightly embraced the figure, feeling its solid weight, a smile appearing on his face.

　"I knew you could do it, Hisako."

　He raised his hand and gently patted her back. Bai Yuan's voice was gentle and encouraging, but he had never doubted that she could win.

　Miyoko Hojo lost because she was caught off guard, while Hisako Shinoto was well-prepared and had Erina Nakiri by her side, so her chances of losing were very low.

　However, although I never doubted it, I couldn't help but cheer for her in my heart when I actually saw her win the competition.

　This is truly his disciple!

　"Teacher Bai Yuan, not only this match, but I will also win all the matches in the future. No matter who the opponent is, I will never let you down!"

　Pressing her face against Bai Yuan's chest, feeling its warmth, Shinoto Hisako looked up at his face and spoke slowly, her voice filled with determination.

　"Just do your best. The rest are not easy opponents. Don't put too much pressure on yourself, win or lose. You've already done a great job."

　He raised his hand and tapped Hisako Shinto's nose to reassure her. Seeing the girl blush, Shirayuki's smile widened.

　Indeed, a girl is most beautiful when she blushes and becomes shy.

　Bai Yuan was stunned. Hisako Shinto was quite handsome, but because of her soft facial features, she had a melting, icy look when she was shy.

　"Teacher Bai Yuan? Teacher Bai Yuan? What are you thinking about? You're staring at me like that, it's making me shy. Is there something on my face?"

　Faced with Bai Yuan's increasingly intense gaze, Shinoto Hisako, who could initially meet his eyes, gradually looked away, appearing exceptionally shy.

　"No, it's just that you look especially radiant and beautiful when you blush. To put it simply, you become even cuter, making my heart race."

　Without hiding his amazement, Bai Yuan praised her directly.

　Fifteen or sixteen years old is the prime of life, especially for girls, who have basically grown up and can look no different from adult women with a little dressing up.

　Only the childlike innocence between her brows revealed her true age at a glance, but this did not diminish Bai Yuan's appreciation of her beauty.

　"Huh? Why...why are you suddenly bringing this up? How could I possibly be cute? I'm so..."

　Shirabuchi's direct words instantly made Hisako Shirato's heart race, causing her to panic and become somewhat incoherent.

　"Because I think you're cute, and you asked me, I told you."

　As for the point that you're cute, there's no need to doubt yourself; it's an objective fact. You are indeed very beautiful and likable.

　After letting go of Hisako Shinto's hand, the student and teacher were pulling and tugging at each other outside, which was really inappropriate.

　However, because the two are about the same age, most of the audience in the Moonlight show are outsiders, and everyone just assumes they are a young couple.

　Hisako Shinoto had obviously thought of this as well. She opened her mouth but didn't know what to say. Deep down, she felt a sweet warmth, and a strange feeling was growing inside her.

　Being hugged like this by Teacher Bai Yuan was a rare sight in her memory, but she didn't find it annoying at all; on the contrary, she was very happy.

　If she disliked this kind of thing, she wouldn't have hugged him in the first place.

　"Teacher Bai Yuan, let's go back. The dish we made in the competition was actually not perfect. I'd like to make it for you to try and get your feedback."

　"Sure, let's go back and cook then."

　Upon hearing Hisako Shinto's words, Shiroyuki nodded without refusing. He then glanced at the Moonlit Realm and, not seeing Alice Nakiri, left.

　As Hisako Shinohara watched Shirabuchi's retreating figure, and seeing that he hadn't waited for Alice Nakiri, a strange light flashed in her eyes. She then quickened her pace, ran forward, and mustered her courage to boldly take his hand.

　The other person hugged

　After all this time, it's not unreasonable for her to ask for some interest back, and it's normal for a teacher to guide a student.

　Although at this moment she sees herself not just as a student.

　The soft touch sent a shiver down Bai Yuan's spine. It felt like touching a piece of fine jade; it was cool at first, but warmed up after a while, which was very comfortable.

　Bai Yuan glanced at it, tightened his grip, and smiled slightly, clearly in a good mood.

　The girl was willing to take his hand, so he naturally didn't refuse. Hisako's hand felt subtly different from Alice's. It was thinner and had more defined knuckles.

　Soon, the two returned home. Hisako Shinto went to the kitchen to cook, while Shirabuchi sat in the living room, took out some snacks from the sofa drawer, and turned on the TV channel to Crayon Shin-chan.

　About ten minutes passed.

　There was a noise at the door. Bai Yuan looked up at the entrance and saw Alice Nakiri running in from the door, puffing out her cheeks, and lightly punching him.

　"Ugh, they didn't even wait for me!"

　"We've been waiting for quite a while, but we haven't seen anyone."

　"Do not believe!"

　Hearing Bai Yuan's pale explanation, Nakiri Alice couldn't help but let out a coquettish cry, then snuggled into his arms and cuddled, drawing circles on her chest with her fingers.

　She wouldn't get angry over such trivial matters, but she would use them to pretend to be angry and get her partner to coax her, which would also help improve the relationship between the couple.

　Behind her followed another girl with orange hair and an amazing figure, none other than Erina Nakiri.

　At this moment, Erina Nakiri looked at Hisako Shirato, who was busy in the kitchen, with a strange emotion on her face, and then sat down next to Shirabuchi.

　She was aware of Alice Nakiri and Shiro's playful fight, but she seriously doubted whether the two would start kissing if she weren't around.

　After learning about sex from some picture books, she understood the things between men and women. While secretly cursing them for their lack of restraint, she couldn't help but peek.

　"Didn't this guy never sit next to Bai Yuan before to avoid suspicion? And he looks preoccupied, what's he thinking about?"

　Sensing Erina Nakiri's state, Alice Nakiri was somewhat surprised.

　Although the other person likes Bai Yuan, they love him very restrainedly, afraid of being talked about, so they rarely show him any affection.

　But now she's sitting right next to Bai Yuan, making that face—is she trying to get Bai Yuan to comfort her?

　However, Alice Nakiri was not flustered, because her target was Shirabuchi's open thighs, so she sat down gracefully in front of Erina.

　Her back rested against Bai Yuan's chest, her delicate little feet dangling slightly in mid-air—something she often did when she was a child.

　The girl became engrossed in watching the television screen in no time.

　She really enjoyed this feeling, with Bai Yuan by her side, savoring the peaceful afternoons. This kind of life was truly wonderful.

　Beside her, Erina Nakiri's expression was subtle. She was also leaning against Shirai, but she was far less bold than Alice Nakiri.

　Looking at the two figures overlapping, something strange popped into Erina Nakiri's mind, and then she glanced away at the television.

　"Teacher Bai Yuan, we've arrived!"

　"Everyone, find a seat. Hisako is cooking in the kitchen; it won't be long before we can eat."

　Just then, there was another noise at the door, and several figures walked in from outside. Looking towards the door, they were surprised to find that it was Tadokoro Megumi and the others who had come.

　Because they often visited Bai Yuan's house, their slippers were always kept at home. They would skillfully change into the slippers and come to the living room, and they were already used to this scene.

　They took their seats one by one. Some watched TV, some crossed their legs, some slumped in their chairs, and some played on their phones. This was one of the few times they could relax.

　Inside the kitchen, Hisako Niito was busy at work. In front of her were several steamers, emitting a faint fragrance, and next to her were two large pots of rice.

　If you're going to do it, do it for everyone; that's their rule here.

　Before long, the meal was ready. Hisako Shinoto came to the door and called out. Immediately, someone came over to help her take the food out and place it on the dining table.

　"I wanted to try this when we were in the moonlight earlier, I can't wait!"

　Looking at the medicinal steamed chicken in front of her, Yoshino Yuuki's face was full of anticipation.

　Ignoring the heat, they hurriedly removed the lotus leaves wrapping the chicken, revealing a steaming little hen inside.

　The chicken had a slightly yellowish color and an enticing aroma. As soon as it appeared, everyone present swallowed hard, and then they began to eat it with great relish.

　Because it's a steamed dish, it's very moist inside. With one bite, the rich juices flow down the corners of your lips, and everyone's face is filled with enjoyment.

　"The overall flavor is harmonious, and the medicinal herbs used are very suitable for chicken, which brings out the deliciousness of the chicken. However, there are also some disharmonious parts."

　You need to adjust the ratio of lotus leaves to chicken. The fragrance of lotus leaves is certainly a highlight of this dish, but too many lotus leaves will mask the flavor of the chicken itself. The leaves should be just big enough to wrap the chicken.

　The proportions of seasonings such as salt, cooking wine, light soy sauce, and sesame oil also need to be considered.

　Medicinal cuisine emphasizes the original flavor of the ingredients, using medicinal herbs to enhance the chicken's freshness. The seasoning should be light; you added too much. Reducing the amount by about a quarter would achieve the desired effect.

　Special Grade Two Stars.

　Then there are the medicinal herbs. Their compatibility isn't a big problem, but the proportions are a significant issue.

　Increase the amount of red dates by half, and reduce the amount of angelica and astragalus by a quarter. This should make it a dish that shines, for this chicken.

　Each problem requires a specific analysis; different types of chicken require different preparation methods. The chicken's growth time, breed, weight at maturity, and freshness all form the theoretical basis for the subsequent ingredient combinations.

　Since the competition was over, Bai Yuan no longer held back and began to talk at length about the shortcomings of the medicinal steamed chicken in front of him.

　Hearing his rambling, Hisako Shinto went from being serious at first, to having her mouth slightly open, and then rubbing her head, her eyes glazed over, and a pained expression on her face.

　"Master, please stop reciting it. I perfected it step by step!"

　"Specific problems require specific analysis, which is why ordinary people who know the recipe cannot immediately become master chefs."

　Only through persistent honing of skills can you create truly top-notch cuisine. Keep up the good work, young lady.

　He patted Hisako Shinoto on the shoulder as encouragement, reminding her that one must keep moving forward on the path of cooking to reap rewards.

　Those who witnessed this scene, recalling what Bai Yuan had just said, had thoughtful expressions on their faces.

　Although Shirai was speaking to Hisako Shinto, the principle is universal: only by accumulating enough experience can one become a renowned chef.

　"Dingling bell~"

　Just then, a phone rang, and Hisako Shinoto and Megumi Tadokoro both took out their phones and answered the call.

　"Well, okay, I see."

　"I see, thank you."

　After putting down their phones, Hisako Shinoto and Megumi Tadokoro turned their heads at the same time, looked at each other, and showed complicated expressions on their faces.

　"what happened?"

　Nearby, Yoshino Yuuki was a little confused by what she saw, then shook Tadokoro Megumi's arm with a hint of curiosity on her face.

　"The opponent in the semi-finals."

　"It's Hisako."

　"It's Xiaohui."

　The sound coming from the two of them caused a moment of pause in the atmosphere. Everyone first looked at Hisako Shinto, then at Megumi Tadokoro, their expressions subtle.

　"To think they'd meet in the semifinals! This is outrageous! The organizers must have done this on purpose!"

　Yoshino Yuuki puffed out her cheeks in dissatisfaction and complained without any restraint, "They actually made their people kill each other! That's too cruel!"

　"The order of the matches is all randomly drawn, there is no question of it being intentional."

　That's what I say, but I'm still really annoyed!

　Erina Nakiri's voice rang out, correcting the errors in Yuuki Yoshino's words.

　A look of helplessness also appeared on her face. It's not a good thing for comrades to fight each other. No matter who wins or loses, it's a blow to the other side.

　"This way, at least one person can make it to the finals, which is not necessarily a bad thing for us."

　Besides, we usually cook together, so we're all familiar with each other's cooking styles. Let's treat this as a regular cooking competition and give it our all!