Mari was so engrossed in eating the Man-eating Crab stew that she lost track of her surroundings.
Suddenly, she snapped back to reality and looked around, only to find Karina and Serena joining in, unable to resist the delicious aroma of the crab.
Despite its grotesque appearance, Mari was enjoying it so much that the others couldn’t help but join in.
Before they knew it, Kurt’s party was devouring the crab legs one by one, completely entranced.
It was as if their initial disgust had vanished, replaced by sheer enthusiasm.
The four of them shared one crab, which was no ordinary crab—it was a Man-eating Crab from the waters near Leila, known for its massive size.
Each leg was as thick as a bamboo stalk, and the crab itself was large enough to satisfy four people.
By the time they finished, they were so full they could barely move.
“Wow… I’m so full,” Mari sighed.
“We actually managed to finish it,” Karina added.
“I’ve never tasted anything like it,” Serena remarked.
The three of them relaxed, completely satisfied, while Kurt stared at the untouched crab body.
“Why are you all acting like we’re done? The best part is still here,” Kurt said, pointing to the crab’s body.
The body of the crab, especially the golden-yellow innards, was considered the most flavorful part.
Kurt couldn’t believe they were about to leave it untouched.
“But we’re really full,” Mari protested.
“Then go for a walk while I prepare the rest,” Kurt insisted, pulling out a bag of rice.
Just then, the inn’s door burst open, and a group of rough-looking men entered.
“Is this the best restaurant in Leila? Owner, come out!” one of them shouted.
The innkeeper, trembling, stepped forward. “Yes, I’m the owner. What do you want?”
“We’re from the Lowdrake Restaurant, and from now on, Leila is our territory. We challenge you to a cooking duel to prove who’s the best!”
The innkeeper was stunned, but Kurt, watching from the sidelines, found the situation intriguing.
Meanwhile, Mari, Karina, and Serena took advantage of Kurt’s distraction to clear the table and escape to their rooms.