Spark's group set up camp alongside Princess Ling's large entourage. The mingling groups created a bustling scene against the backdrop of the twilight plains. Their tents pitched slightly apart from the rest, gave them a semblance of privacy, yet they were under the vigilant watch of the soldiers.
The soldiers, clad in their armor, stood sentinel around the camp, their eyes constantly sweeping over the trio. Any slight movement was observed with practiced scrutiny.
As the night deepened, Zhao Shi began his usual routine of preparing the evening meal. With a calm demeanor, he started unpacking many cooking utensils and ingredients from his storage bracelet. The bracelet seemed almost magical in its capacity, producing what appeared to be a miniature, fully-equipped kitchen.
Observing from a distance, the soldiers couldn't help but exchange whispers and suppressed laughter.
"Look at that cook. He has an entire kitchen just for three people," one soldier murmured.
"What a show-off," another commented, shaking his head.
"I heard people here don't even salt their food properly," someone snickered, drawing a few chuckles from his comrades.
"How do they enjoy food without proper salt and spices?" another added, with a tone that was both incredulous and mocking.
Despite their disparaging remarks, Zhao Shi remained focused and unperturbed. As he began, he retrieved the fresh fish he had caught that morning from his storage, their silvery scales still gleaming.
With expert precision, Zhao Shi heated oil in a pan until it shimmered. He carefully laid a beautifully cut piece of fish into the pan.
"Behave."
The soldiers immediately straightened their backs and turned toward the source of the voice. It was the masked man, standing with a stern expression, and beside him, Princess Ling, her presence commanding respect and silence among her entourage.
With her regal bearing, Princess Ling walked directly towards Spark's tent area, her gaze fixed on the small group enjoying the cooking show. Spark looked up from his relaxed position and met her eyes with a casual smile.
"What brings the princess to this side of the camp?" Spark asked, his tone light and knowing.
"I couldn't help but notice the delightful aroma wafting over," Princess Ling responded, a hint of amusement in her voice. "It seems Lord Spark's butler is quite the culinary master."
Spark chuckled, casting a proud glance at Zhao Shi, who was quietly preparing the next dish.
"What can I say? He is indeed gifted," Spark replied with a playful smile.
Zhao Shi, hearing their conversation, gave a slight nod of acknowledgment but continued his work, plating the seared fish and garnishing it with herbs that added a final touch of color and fragrance.
"If the princess would like, you are more than welcome to join us," Spark offered, his voice both inviting and teasing. "We have enough for one more, though I wonder if the princess would enjoy our humble fare."
Princess Ling looked at Spark, catching the playful challenge in his eyes. Without hesitation, she responded, "How could I refuse Lord Spark's generous offer?"