The Lutim Banquet (Second Half)
Trantor: Skythewood
Editor:
1
The sun slowly set into the west.
In less than two hours, darkness would engulf this world.
When the sun touch the western edge of the forest, the bride and groom would reach the Wu n vige, and the banquet would begin.
Right now, they were visiting the every house of their rtives, and epting their blessings.
After gifting their blessings to the newly wed, the kins would also head to the Wu n vige.
Almost thirty of their rtives had already gathered in the za.
Children under the age of five didnt have the rights to participate in the banquet, and these poor toddlers would be gathered inside a branch house, and the women would take turn to look after them.
Of the men gathered in the za, I could only see elderly men and youth younger than thirteen.
Even on a day like this, the hunters still needed to venture into the forest.
To avoid any misfortune, the hunters wouldnt push themselves, and return early. Aside from the Lutim house and Min house, the men from the other five houses werepleting their obligations as hunters.
If they could present tusks and horns they hunted on that very day, it would be the greatest blessing.
Thats how selfless, pure and brave the denizens of Forest''s Edge was.
Alright we are all set.
Afterpleting about 70% of the preparation, I wiped away the sweat on my brow.
The poitan had been grilled.
The three vegetables has been fried.
The stew and meat soup were done.
The fruit wine sauce for the hamburg steak had been poured back into the empty fruit wine bottles.
Only the meat needed to be grilled.
Piles of hamburg steak and a portion of the steak filled the stove room of the Wu main house.
There were six stoves in the Wu main house, and to differentiate between strong and weak fire, only three pairs could be used at the same time.
As the pots were big, five hamburg steak could be grilled at the same time.
It was almost time.
Well then, time to start grilling.
On my word, everyone put the hamburg steak into the pot. The stove room was filled with the appetizing aroma of fats and meat being cooked.
Grilling the hamburg steak was the most difficult to master, so Leina Wu, Mia Lei Wu and I took on this task.
The women in the main house all headed to the branch houses to grill the steaks there.
The branch family women without any assigned tasks stayed in the Wu main house to carry the iron pots.
The mother and sister of the youth Shin Wu stood besides me with a Krilee stick in hand.
Okay, please proceed.
The two of them used the Krilee stick to shift the iron pot to the stove with the weak fire.
After the red juice ooze out from the surface of the meat, I had to flip it over and return the pot back to the stove with the strong fire. I will then pour in fruit wine and cover it with a lid.
The fragrance filled the entire stove room before I cover the lid.
Mia Lei Wu was using the stoves behind me, and Leina Wu was using the stoves outdoor, everything was proceeding smoothly.
Asuta, Im honoured to be of help.
At this moment, someone said to me quietly.
It was Shin Wus elder sister Sh Wu.
In Forest''s Edge, this girl was really slender and had a frail air about her. She should be slightly older than me.
After my father Ryada lost his ability to hunt, my younger brother who is just sixteen had to take on the mantle of house head, and our family felt gloomy about our future But after tasting the dish you taught us, we were filled with happiness, and wants to stay strong and live on. Were very grateful to you.
No, you are too kind. Your knifework is excellent, and is as good as Leina Wu.
I opened the lid to check on the hamburg steak, and smiled at her:
You have to keep making delicious meal and bring happiness to your family. Thats something only you two can do Its almost time to shift back to the weak fire stove.
Yes.
The mother and daughter worked together again to move the iron pot.
After it was done, we finished the first batch.
Asuta, you are an incredible person. My brother once said that you looked as ferocious as a hunter when you tend to the hearth.
Thats ttering me too much, Im not that great.
No, its true. You can control the me at will, and turn the tough and smelly kiba meat into a delicious meal You are just like a magician from the eastern kingdom.
Thats the job of a chef. Theres no need to send out magicians, there are plenty of chefs better than me in the city alright, its done.
Fake rubber tree leaves were ced on the working tform, and I ced the hamburg steak onto it.
After that, I used the wooden spat to clear away the stains, and put the pot back onto the strong fire stove. After throwing down some fats, I put in five more meat patties. While I was doing that, Ai Fa ced anotheryer of fake rubber tree leaves on top of the hamburg steak, t stones were ced on either side of the nk for support, and another board was ced on top.
We kept piling up thepleted food this way.
Ah, Ai Fa, what trees does these leavese from? I use it often, but I dont know what it is actually called..
Fate rudder tree.
Huh?
These are leaves from the fate rudder tree.
Ah, I see.
I will just call them fake rubber tree leaves then I smiled wryly.
These leaves were bigger than two of my palms put together, didnt have any weird smile and had a smooth surface. Whenever there was a need to grillrge amount of meat, this was an indispensable tool.
The guests would bring their own tes and skewers, so I used the thin nks as a tray, and the fake rubber tree leaves as tes. For the women, both making the thin nks and foraging hundreds of fake rubber tree leaves were a tedious workload.
But all of their expression were cheerful.
How surprised and happy would their family and kins be when they saw all these dishes? Their faces were bright from anticipation, and even though the head chef was me, these were made together by everyone.
It would be great if this dish could deepen the bonds between the whole family.
I hope everyone could enjoy this happiness.
And I hope that Kan Lutim and Ema Min would have a great wedding.
Asuta! We have finished grilling the hamburg steak here! I will start grilling the steaks now!
Okay, please go ahead!
Im back!! Asuta, things are going smoothly in the other houses too!
Thank you, Rimee Wu. Its about time to heat up the vegetable stew, can you help me tell that to everyone?
Got it!
The work was progressing smoothly.
After that, I heard there was an ident when shifting the pot, and five steaks were ruined. But the women from the branch family immediately came over to cut more meat, sprinkle salt and pico leaves on them, then left in a hurry.
Oh no! This time, Vena-nee spilled the pot of aria soup!
What!? Is anyone hurt!?
No! But Vena-nee is about to cry! Or rather, she is already crying!
Dont need to cry! Everything except for the vegetable stew can be salvaged! This is a long banquet, tell her not to panic and take it slow, and make another pot in the usual way! Ah, do anyone in that house know how to cook the soup?
I dont know! But if there isnt, Rimee can help!
Okay! Im counting on you!
I was already prepared for such sudden incidents.
While we were busy with various matters, the Wu main house grilled all the meat.
After that, we filled the pot with water, and piled as much food on top of the pot as possible. It didnt have much effect, but it could keep the food warm.
Okay, things are fine here. I will check on all the other houses.
Got it. Well then, Leina Wu and the other girls can go change. We will keep watch over here.
After Mama Mia Lei Wu said that, Leina Wu, Sh Wu and the other young girls answered:Yes. and left the stove room.
When this mother noticed my puzzled expression, she smiled gently:
Its a banquet after all. For the unwed girls, this is a chance for them to stand out. Many people got engaged during such an event.
I see So thats how it is.
In that case, I better not go near Vena Wu or Leina Wu unless it was work rted.
Only one unwed woman remained in the stove room. When I looked at Ai Fa, she stood majestically with a scary expression, then red at me and said:Im from the Fa house.
I didnt really get it, but Ai Fa didnt seem to need to dress up.
I felt relieved and a bit of pity at the same time, aplicated feeling.
Well then, lets go. If there are any problems, we wille back here immediately.
Ai Fa and I walked out of the stove room together.
The sun was going to touch the western forest soon, so time was short.
Alright then, the job is now half done.
I nced at the za where more people had gathered, then walked to the branch houses to the side.
Half? Arent most of the food done?
After finishing cooking, we still need to serve the food to the customers. Our job is only done when the bride taste thest steak and hamburg steak.
The situation in the branch houses were fine.
Some houses were filled with fried vegetables, others had piles of grilled poitan, while another had tons of steak. Some of these houses were heating up the vegetable stew that was moved over there.
When we reached thest house, we saw Rimee Wu working hard to scoop up the foam in the soup by herself.
Rimee Wu, thank you for your hard work. I see, this is the culprit that made Vena-nee cry.
The stove besides Rimee Wu was wet, with aria and pieces of meat scattered all over.
Where did everyone go?
They all went to change, all of them havent marry yet.
Then, what about you? Dont you need to change?
Yes, I will change after this soup is done.
I see. I definitely have to see Rimee Wu all dressed up.
I will switch with you. The brides group should be reaching the Wu vige soon, so you should hurry up and change. Ah, can you go help Mama Mia Lei after you have changed?
Got it! Thank you! Hmm, Ai Fa, dont you need to change?
Im from the Fa house. Im not a kin of the Lutim house that is hosting this wedding, I shouldnt dress for the asion.
I see I wanted to see you in banquet attire though. See youter then!
Rimee Wu charged out of the stove room in a sh.
The moment she stepped out, Shin Wu stepped in. Thats right, this was Shin Wus home.
Yo, you are back, Shin Wu. Good to see that you have returned safely.
Yes How are things on your side?
No problem, your mother and sister are working hard.
I wasnt paying lip service.
The two of them were very dependable, which was why I asked them to help make hamburg steak in the main house instead of staying home. Not just carrying the pots, they were also a great help in making mincemeat and meat patties.
Also I really like this quiet, cold and clumsy youth. Whenever he bickered with Ludo Wu who was hisplete opposite in personality, my soul felt at ease.
Shin Wu stared at his Ai Fa with his eyes that were a bit narrow.
So you are Ai Fa from the Fa house.
Speaking of which, this was the first time the two of them met.
Im the head of this house, Shin Wu. Sorry for being so sudden, but there is something I would like to ask you.
Huh? I alternated my gaze between the two of them.
They were both expressionless, and I couldnt garner any intel with my naked eye.
However, just seeing the two of them standing still quietly filled me with unease.
Ai Fa, you, when Shin Wu was about to continue speaking
Shin, you are back?
Sh Wus voice could be heard.
Ara
She stopped when she stepped into the stove room
So you are here too. Ai Fa and Asuta, wee to my humble abode.
We didnt separate with Sh Wu for long, and she had already changed into the so called banquet attire.
Uwah I was a little surprised.
Sh Wu looked frial, and her appearance wouldnt leave a strong impression. But she looked really graceful and delicate,pletely different from her usual self.
Her hair was dark brown like her brother. She didnt tie them up, and let them flow gently onto her back.
She wore a few flowers and berries on her hair, and had a translucent veil on.
The orange sunlight shone onto the veil, and it glittered like gems. So such a fabric existed in this world too! I was dumbstruck.
She probably changed the clothe covering her breasts and waist too, I didnt remember too clearly. The swirly patterns of them seemed more intrinsic, and the colours more vibrant.
A purple translucent cloth were also tied around her waist, which drapes to her ankle. Aside from the krilee fruit to repel bugs, she also wore essories made from a colourful assortment of wood and metal on her neck, wrist and ankles Sh Wu had be mesmerizing.
Ah, is this the new pot of soup? If it is fine with you, please let me take over the stove.
Is that fine? I will leave it to you then Be careful not to burn your clothes.
Yes, I understand.
Her smiling face looked so gentle and charming.
When I turned towards Shin Wu, that youth shook his head calmly and said:
My apologies, you are in the middle of work right? I will find you again after your work is done.
I see, then I will make a move first.
Ai Fa left the stove room unhesitantly. I had no choice but to nod at the other two and follow her.
Hey, do you know why Shin Wu want to ask you?
I dont know.
Ai Fa answered icily.
Hes a man from the Wu branch house right? I dont know what he wants to talk to me about.
Thats true.
Never mind, Shin Wu wasnt a bad guy, he wouldnt n anything nefarious. Even though there was doubts in my mind, I still needed to do my job.
When we walked into the za
Cheers erupted the very next moment.
The bride and groom were here.
A group of thirty slowly moved towards the za. They were the family of the Lutim and Min house.
An elderly man stood at the very front.
He was probably the elder of the Lutim house. His was bald, and a long white beard flowed down his chest. I guess he must be very old, but his back was straight, strides were steady and he was wearing the clothes of a hunter.
Two children stood on either side of him.
One boy and one girl, both of them were younger than Rimee Wu.
They might be young, but the boy was already in hunters attire, puffing out his chest and lifting his head up proudly.
The girl was dressed like Sh Wu, a translucent veil covered her head, and a brilliant smile on her face.
Their smalls hands carried a basket decorated with flowers and berries, arge number of white kiba tusks and horns were piled on it. These were probably the blessings for the newlyweds gifted by their kins. The men who had yet to offer their blessings walked to them quietly. After greeting the elder leading the group, they ced their tusks and horns into the basket.
Surrounded by an entourage of men in hunters wear and women covered in sheer fabric the stars for today entered the za.
Kan Lutim and Ema Min.
Naturally, Kan Lutim wore a hunters attire.
The only difference was the kiba fur cape that was wrapped around his muscr body.
That was definitely a kiba fur cape Because the kiba head was still attached to the cape.
The kiba head was ced on Kan Lutims broad right shoulder, as if it was biting him. The tusks and horns on the head protrude out prominently, giving the impression of it being alive.
The cape covered the right side of his body. As the left side of his body was bare, hisrge and small des hung openly on his waist.
They were probably custom made for a wedding. The sheath of the des were covered in leather, marked with a brand and decorated with brightly coloured stones.
He wore a simple grass crown on his head of brown hair, but that was enough to make the heir to the Lutim house look braver and stronger than usual.
The bride walked quietly besides him, her head covered by a veil that glittered like gems.
However, the brides veil was different from Sh Wu and the other women. It had two or threeyers, and a crown woven from grass just like the grooms was ced on it.
The veil covered her face, even though the glitter obscured her expression, it was still clear that the bride was smiling blissfully.
The translucent fabric draped down from her shoulders and waist, covering her brown skin in a gentleyer of light.
The clothe around her chest and waist had a colourful swirling pattern, and the essories on her neck and limbs were bright and eye catching The glow of the stones on her body were more special and beautiful than anyone else.
The cheers blessing the couple kept going on, shaking the very air in the za. After that, augh that covered all the cheers.
It was the father of the groom, Dan Lutim.
The burly bald man led a posse of men and wasughing for unknown reasons.
I didnt know why he wasughing but he must be feeling really d.
He must be filled with happiness and glee.
His son had grown to be an outstanding man, and married such a beautiful wife. That must make him extremely happy.
His beer belly wobbled, and the fats on his face also shook.
The children who saw that burst outughing.
When Dan Lutim saw those children, heughed out loud again.
It was some distance away so I couldnt see clearly, but there seemed to be tears in his big round eyes.
Asuta. Someone tugged my arm gently after calling me.
I turned my head and found Ai Fa staring at me quietly.
I nodded and clenched my fist.
Its finally time for the second half.
The banquet was about to begin
2
Please bring the vegetable stew to the za! Its hot, so take it slow, dont need to rush!
What awaited me was chaos.
The Wu n erected a stage in front of their main house, and after the bride and groom were ushered up, Dan Lutim gave an opening speech. But we didnt have time to listen to him. The moment the speech ends, we had to start serving out the dishes, so the guests could start dining.
The first thing on the menu was vegetable stew.
Ten makeshift stoves were erected around the za in a circr shape. We shifted the four pots as far apart as possible, and started a weak fire.
After that, we brought over six pots filled with water, and set them on the remaining stoves. These were used to keep the food warm. We started a medium fire in the stove, ced the board that acted as a table on top of it, and then put the steaks and fried vegetables there. For the steaks, I chose to serve the thigh meat and Chuck p that wouldnt start any controversy.
The women from the Wu n stood guard besides every stove, and I asked them to distribute the food. I felt sorry about it, but they had to take turns to eat their dinner. From what I could observe, none of the women showed any unhappiness about this.
The women in charge of the steaks had pile of poitan in their hands. Whenever someone came over to take the meat, they would give them a poitan and tell them:This is poitan.
Thedies handling the vegetable stew would pour the soup for the guests, and tell them:Theres only one bowl for each person.
People would grilled and cookrge amount of food in the usual banquets, and everyone was free to take as much as they like. Was my way of doing things too stingy?
However, I didnt think that just grilling and cooking meat without stench was enough. I hope to bring even greater joy to everyone, that the delicious food could make them forget their troubles for the moment.
My job was to move between the houses and ry instructions. Towards the end, I lost track of where each of the women was. Even Ai Fa who was by my side was gone after Grandma Ditto Min called for her.
Well then, the banquet will now officially begin!
Dan Lutims deafening voice came from the stage.
Offering our blessings to Kan Lutim from the Lutim house, and Ema Min from the Min house!
Offering them our blessings!
After the hundred odd kin said these words at the same time, the ceremonial fire was started in the wood piled in the center of the za.
Torches were also ced on the stands erected around the stage, which drove away the darkness.
Illuminated by the bright orange light, the people picked up their cutlery and skewers.
Drink wine and feast on the meat! The women from the Wu n worked very hard to prepare for this day, let us offer them our blessings!
As Dan Lutim had been shouting all this time, his voice had turned hoarse.
Spurred by his shouts, the people grabbed fruit wine bottles and picked up meat on the fake rubber tree leaves.
Their strong white teeth tore the meat apart.
They drank the vegetable soup in their tes.
And hesitantly put the grilled poitan into their mouth.
I had no way to check what kind of face the guests were making I could only rush around between each of the houses.
Next will be the spare ribs in this house! Are you ready?
No problem. The meat we served in the beginning got gobbled in no time.
The mother in this branch house said with augh, but I still couldnt remember her name.
We should set off now. The girls taking the first shift wants to taste the vegetable stew too, and is getting impatient.
This mothers arms were bigger than mine. Each nk had seven tes worth of spare ribs, and she could carry three nks at one go.
Im going to relief their shift Hey, this vegetable stew is amazing.
Oh, you already tried it?
It will be a tragedy if I didnt. I rushed back here after finishing the stew. The other girls will be back soon, so you should eat something too alright?
Its fine, I will eat them. I will be counting on you then.
Alright.
The mother went off.
After that, a roar came from outside:
Its here, this is the spare ribs of the kiba! Those who are brave enough,e take a bite!
It was the right decision for me to work behind the scene for the entire banquet. Even if an outsider like me appeared before everyone, it wouldnt make the food taste any better.
Sorry for beingte! We will bring out the rest!
Several unfamiliar girls in beautiful attire rushed into the stove room.
All the steak that was served in the beginning got gobbled up, there is just a little bit of vegetable stew left!
Alright, the soup will be next. Thank you everyone.
Shin Wu house and their neighbour was responsible for the soup.
After rushing into Shin Wus house, I found Sh Wu tending to the hearth alone.
Hmm? Youre alone? Your mother should be here too right?
She went to try out the vegetable stew, I already tried it earlier.
Sh Wu had a frail smile on her face.
This vegetable stew taste really good Im about to cry from happiness.
I see. Please let me cook this for you when you hold your wedding.
When she heard that, Sh Wus face was covered in sorrow, and she shook her head.
Im born with a weak body, although Im of marriageable age, I still didnt marry. A woman who cant even carry a water sk by herself will just be a problem in the house.
Thats not true! Even if you cant move a water sk, you can still carry an iron pot. You can tend to the hearth if you possess that much arm strength.
I was a little flustered at the moment and even winked at Sh Wu.
On top of that, your culinary skill is outstanding, you will definitely be a bride that excels in cooking. When the men understands the merit of delicious food, they wont be able to stopying their eyes on you.
Not at all
Sh Wu was blushing.
At this moment, her mother came back.
The vegetable stew is almost gone. Sh, its time for us to go.
Yes.
The steady mother and frail daughter carried the iron pot together with a Krilee stick.
After they left, I walked to the house next door.
The rest of the soup should be ced there.
After entering the stove room, I realized someone had already moved the three pots of soup. The stove was put out and there was only an iron pot with stew stains ced on it. And a girl was standing alone in the vast stove room.
It was Vena Wu.
Asuta
She widened her sexy eyes that was drooping a little.
Vena Wu was in banquet attire too.
She wore a translucent veil, and her waist was covered with the same sheer fabric Even in usual times, her hair and limbs were decorated more extravagantly than other women, and there were even more essories now.
Her chestnut coloured hair she would tie around her right shoulder was let down, making her even sexier.
However, I couldnt fall for her beauty trap today.
So the soup here had been moved to the za. Alright then, I need to attend to other works.
I turned to leave.
Wait!
Vena Wus yell echoed behind me.
This was the first time I heard her yelling so loudly. In the face of such an abnormal situation, I couldnt help stopping and turning to look at her.
Vena Wu slouched her shoulders like a child, then said with her head low:
Asuta Are you angry?
Hmm? Why should I be angry?
I spilled the aria soup
Ah, its about that. Its fine, the new pot of soup was done in time. Its just a small matter, Im d you arent hurt.
You arent angry
She looked up at me in the eyes.
As I couldnt tell when she was ying around or being serious, I really didnt know how to get along with her.
Im not angry Instead of such trivial matters, you should enjoy this banquet. You are in charge of distributing the vegetable stew right? In that case, you dont have any other work for the time being?
I hate banquets A lot of men will propose to me
You could ept one!
I wanted to say that, but I felt that it would make things moreplicated, so I held my peace.
Alright then, Im going now.
Wait!
She raised her voice again.
Vena Wu hugged herself with her arms and squirmed her body.
Erm I want to leave this house But I dont hate my family
What?
What was she saying?
It was almost time for me to go to the next ce.
I actually love my family more than anyone else I love everyone of my family And I hope they can be happy
What are you talking about?
I dont want to hate my family
What Vena Wu did next surprised me again.
She knelt down while hugging herself, then looked up at me as if she was pleading:
Its fine if it is Ai Fa I can hate Ai Fa But if you get together with Ai Fa I will try to seduce you and destroy everything
What the hell are you talking about!
I dont want to hate Leina.
Vena Wu said to me clearly for the first time.
Please dont get together with Leina I dont want to hate my family
I waspletely confused.
I could tell from Leina Wus attitude that she has feelings for me. But even if we moved to the stage of marriage, the other Wu n members wouldnt permit it.
Vena Wu looked sullen, utterly different from her usual self.
After troubling over it for a moment, I ran to Vena Wu and ced my hands on her soft shoulders.
Its fine. I dont know what you are worried about, but you wont ever face such a crazy future.
Luckily, I could say this sincerity without hiding how I felt.
Vena Wu looked up at me with teary eyes.
I wont marry Leina Wu. So you dont need to hate her I can promise you that.
I held Vena Wus shoulders firmly and nodded forcefully. I already did my best to console her.
Sorry for interrupting your work
Not at all, please proceed with the ending part as nned Im going off now.
To escape from Vena Wus gaze, I charged out of the stove room.
My heart was filled with guilt which made me flustered.
I didnt have time to console Vena Wu as I had to hurry to the next spot.
Was the guilt that I was feeling part of the job description?
In that case, I could only bear with it.
As I was thinking about that, I had already ran around the outside of the za.
The sun had already set without me realizing it, and the world was only illuminated by the range mes
From some distance away, the people were just ck shadows to me.
I couldnt see their expression at all.
However, they were emitting arge amount of heat.
The za was filled with the heat and life of the denizens of Forest''s Edge it could even rival the raging ceremonial me.
What a beautiful world.
A world full of life and energy.
I kept running, as if this amazing life force was pushing my back.
My next destination was the Wu main house that was far away.
The bride and groom sat quietly on the stage opposite the Wu n main house. Dan Lutim stood beneath the stage with spare ribs in both hands,ughing out loudly.
Of all the dark figure in the dim lighting, he was the only person I wouldnt get wrong.
You dont want to eat? If not, then I will eat it all!
Please give everyone who wants a spare ribs a chance to try them I prayed as I jogged to the stove room.
The next dish was finally hamburg steak.
Ah, I finally see you, Asuta!
There were about ten women in the stove room.
These were the rear guards who had already enjoyed the banquet, and will start working now.
Rimee Wu was one of them too. She stood at the entrance with ribs in both hands.
Heehee, Im mimicking Dan Lutim.
No no. Never mind that old man, if you also eat so much, there wont be enough for everyone. Actually, everyone is suppose to eat just one.
Thats why I picked the smaller ones! Is not no good too?
Rimee Wus dejected face was just like a puppy. I patted her head and said:
You are really cute, so its fine. Your clothes are nice too.
Really? Im so happy!
The little girls banquet attire were just like the adults. Rimee Wu wore a glittering veil, and had all sorts of essories and bangles on her. She was definitely the cutest one here.
Therge red flower on either side of her temples were exceptionally prominent. This essory suits the red headed Rimee Wu really well.
Oh right, have you seen Ai Fa? I didnt see her around right after the banquet started.
Ai Fa? Grandma Ditto Min, you called for her right?
I only told her that the grand elder is looking for her. I didnt see her after that either.
Grandma Ditto Min was also part of the hamburg steak team.
My lieutenant, and also the only other gueri member, just where was Ai Fa hiding?
Erm, If you are looking for the female hunter from the Fa house, I saw her carrying out the steaks just now.
Donda Wus second brothers daughter inw said.
I see, thank you.
It would be fine if she was acting on her own initiative without my instructions.
I also realized that running around by myself was the most efficient way.
Looks like it is time for hamburg steak to go. That means everyone ate half of the dishes Are things progressing too quickly?
Your dishes are delicious, so everyone finished it in no time.
Ara, I think most of it is eaten by the head of the Lutim house.
The olderdies chatted cheerfully.
I wanted tough along with them, but unfortunately, I couldnt.
After the hamburg steak goes out, everyone will just have one more steak each. Maybe we will need to cook more meat?
Its possible, it seems that this much food isnt enough. Both the men and the women are eating heartily and fighting over the meat.
Was this the so called finding joy in work?
If there really wasnt enough food, we had already made preparation for additional grilled meat. But we didnt have more vegetables or poitan, and the most we could manage was more aria and tino.
I understand. Please move the hamburg steak out, I will start cutting the meat. I will slice them thin so it could be grilled with just strong fire.
Alright, we are off then.
Grandma Ditto Min gave the word quietly, and everyone carried out about 120 hamburg steak and many bottles filled with fruit wine sauces.
Ah, Rimee Wu, when you are free, can you check on Vena Wu? She should be in the stove room of the house with three pots of soup.
Vena-nee? Ah, Vena-nee always drinks by herself during banquets. Got it! Rimee Wu will help you bring out the hamburg steak first!
Thank you, I will be counting on you then.
After the rear guard brought the hamburg steak out, the stove room immediately turned spacious.
Only the steak that will be servedst was left behind.
On order to keep the steaks warm, I shifted them to the stove and closed the lid, then scooped up some water with thedle to drink.
I felt exhausted.
And incredibly hyped.
I was a bit worried about Vena Wu, but other then that everything was proceeding smoothly.
I didnt know what kind of faces the guests would make when they dined, but I knew there was nothing to worry about just by looking at the womens faces.
There wasnt any major idents.
I just need to work hard for a bit more, and my job would be done.
I stretched my back, and walked to the food store to bring out the additional meat.
I wonder if Ludo Wu and Shin Wu enjoyed this banquet. I hope Ai Fa tried the vegetable stew.
I picked up the candle stand at the entrance, and entered the food store.
The meat storage should be further in.
We used the vegetable storage space to store the cooked food for the time being, and pushed all the shelves to the wall.
Almost all the vegetables were gone from the shelves.
Only the back up vegetables in case of any mishap during cooking was there, along with the ingredients not used in the dishes today.
I heard the Wu n and Lutim house would split the cost.
Would this deepen the bonds between the two families? Or would it deepen any gulfs? I didnt understand the personality of Donda Wu and Jiza Wu too well yet, so I had no way of knowing.
However I just needed to finish my work.
I walked into the meat storage as I pondered.
The next instant
The opened door was shut with a bang.
Huh?
I turned around, and a petite and soft thing pounced at my chest.
Despite being small and soft, it had plenty of strength.
I fell back onto the floor just like that.
The silver lining was that the candle stand didnt topple when I fell.
The light of the candle illuminated theplicated expression of Leina Wu.
3
L-Leina Wu? What happened?
Leina Wu in banquet wear was on top of me.
She stick close to my chest and looked at me with gloomy eyes.
Asuta
Her petite and sexy lips squeezed out a raspy voice.
Asuta, I have something to ask of you
M-Me?
Please be a Wu n member.
Her blue eyes that was right before me had a serious glean as she stared at me.
Please leave the Fa house and be a Wu n member Please be a part of our family.
W-Why are you saying this all of a sudden? Theres no way Donda Wu and Jiza Wu will permit that.
I will convince father and Jiza-nii If I discuss this with them properly, they will understand.
I didnt think so at all.
Or rather, I didnt want to do that.
Why are you saying this so suddenly? Leina Wu, I dont understand what you are thinking at all.
I want to be with you! I want you to be our kin! When a house loses its strength, they will usually join another house. The denizens of Forest''s Edge has always relied on each other to survive.
Leina Wu grabbed the chest of my t-shirt tightly.
Father has definitely acknowledged your strength. Once the n head make his decision Jiza-nii cant go against it. After that, I will spend my time to convince him!
Thats impossible. I wont leave Ai Fa and be a Wu n member How can I do that?
Just what kind of face was I showing now?
Leina Wu burrowed her brows painfully.
I already told Ai Fa how I felt. Its fine even if it isnt Darum-nii, there are plenty of unwed men in the branch family. If shey down her sword and resolve herself to marry Ai Fa has a charming character, even Papa Donda wanted her to marry into the main house. Normally, no one would propose marriage to a house without kin like the Fa house
But Ai Fa turned you down right?
She actually said that to Ai Fa during the banquet.
As the door was closed, the noise from the banquet seemed so distant.
After that a sorrow-like emotion filled my chest.
Even so, I still want to be with you.
Leina Wu buried her face in my chest.
Ai Fa is strong, incredibly strong. She wouldnt waver on this. However Ai Fa can live by herself, thats how strong she is.
You are right.
Ai Fa had lived by herself for the past two years.
If she didnt met me, she definitely would continue her life in solitude.
However
We met.
Ai Fa is a hunter. She chose to hunt kiba and wither away in the forest instead of nurturing the next generation, In that case theres no meaning for her to take in a man like you right? The Fa houses bloodline will end with Ai Fa, why dont you be a Wu n member
Leina Wu.
I held her soft shoulders.
Thank you for your kind thoughts. Im grateful to you for worrying about my future But I cant do it.
Leina Wu raised her head in surprise.
I looked at the tears welling up in her blue eyes and continued:
I have no intention of leaving the Fa house. Even if Ai Fa can live alone, I cant do without her Im sorry.
But why? Even the stubborn men from the branch family acknowledge your strength now. If I have time to convince Jiza-nii, the entire Wu n will
I also like everyone in the Wu n. But I still want to be with Ai Fa.
I pushed Leina Wus body away as gently as I could, and propped myself up.
Leina Wus body back away heavily onto my knees, her tears finally fell.
Im sorry And thank you.
Leina Wu stood up crying.
A strong gleam appeared in her teary eyes, and she looked straight at me.
I wont give up.
She rushed out of the door after saying that.
The rowdy sound of the banquet crept in through the opened door once again.
I pushed my incredibly heavy body and stood up.
For Leina Wu, is this the right path to take?
She wanted to ept someone with dubious origins like me into her home, and to live together with her.
If the one who picked me up in the beginning was Leina Wu, instead of Ai Fa I would have been so blissed and happy. But the one I met first was Ai Fa.
I couldnt imagine living my life apart from Ai Fa.
I hit my temple hard a few times, then walked into the meat storage.
And then I stopped again.
A womans scream came from the other side.
Was it Leina Wu?
No, several women was screaming at the same time.
Had there been an ident?
Could it be After serving the steaks and hamburg steak that looked alien to them, had the men finally lost their temper and started rampaging?
I didnt thought about it any further and dashed out of the food store.
I raced pass the houses, around the stage and into the za.
The za was in an uproar.
The joyous chatter earlier was like a dream negative emotions filled the tensed za.
Everyone was looking in the direction opposite the stage.
It was the entrance of the za.
Did the Lei house or some other big houses left the za in a rage?
I avoided the crowd standing in the za as much as possible, and rushed to the side of the ceremonial fire in the center of the za.
The next moment an unbelievable sight appeared before my eyes.
W-Whats going on here?
My mind couldnt process what I was seeing.
Just what happened to cause such a mess? I couldnt imagine at all.
The stove nearest to the entrance had copsed.
The hamburg steak and fried vegetable on it was scattered all over the ground.
And then
A dead kiba had crashed into the ruined stove.
It was a massive kiba and was around a hundred kilograms.
But it seemed to be rather old, its fur had lost its luster and one of its horns was broken.
Several wooden spears had pierced its massive body.
Huge amount of blood stained its dark brown hide, which gave off a terrible stench.
As the stove fire wasntpletely out yet, the fur on the kibas head was scorched crisp ck.
The feral kiba, blood and scorched fur the za was filled with these stench, as if someone had tarnished this night of blessings with malicious intentions.
Did the kiba crashed into the stove, and was hunted down by these men?
The kiba might have a ferocious nature, but they were timid, and would only attack if they encounter humans in close quarters. Normally, they would flee at the sight of a human.
It was unlikely for it to barge into a za with over a hundred people, and ram into a stove which had a fire burning prominently
I was confused, but I realized that my line of thought wasnt wrong.
Because there was a t piece of board beneath the carcass of the kiba.
On the board was handles made from vines.
That was a towing board used to transport iron pots and water sks.
The kiba didnt die here, someone carried the carcass here and hurled it at the stove.
Someone did so with malicious intent
Whats the matter? This is a joyous asion, so why is everyone so quiet?
A nefarious voice of a man rang out.
This shrill noise was made by a young man.
It sounded familiar the deep tone and slurred voice.
I slowly lifted my vision.
On the other side of the dark fumes were three men.
One of them was a tall and burly young man.
He shaved his dark brown hair really short, and had blue eyes. Aside from being tall, he had no other prominent features.
There was another young man who was slightly shorter.
He might have a smaller stature, but his body was filled with muscles, had a nd face, and his expression was like a stone lion. He had messy hair, eyes that had the glint of a wild dog, and had dark brown hair like the other man.
As for thest person His body was as big as Donda Wu and Dan Lutim, and was like a meat balloon.
Given his height of almost two meters, just how heavy was he? I wouldnt be surprised if he weighs 200 kg. His face, arms, belly and legs were bloated. With how round his body was, he might be able to move quicker by rolling instead of walking.
His hairline had receded greatly, and he only had ck curly hair besides his ear.
This made him looked old but his round face looked rather childish, so he seemed a little disgusting.
This was the first time I met this meat balloon like man, but I remember the other two man.
One of them was the heir to the Tsun n I met one month earlier, Diga Tsun.
The other was the second son of the Tsun n I had a run in with seven days ago, Doddo Tsun.
Theres no mistake, there were from the Tsun n that rules Forest''s Edge.
Wheres the house heads? Where is Dan of the Lutim house and Donda of the Wu n hiding? The Tsun main house is here to offer our congrattions, and the house heads arent even going to greet us? Huh?
Diga Tsun shrill voice echoed in the za along with a stench.
These fellows was probably drunk and making trouble.
That eldest son and second son were both holding fruit wine bottles.
Are you unhappy with the blessings we are offering? We brought such a huge kiba, this is an impable gift right? It has three tusks and horns on it ehh? These are the blessings from the Tsun ns main house eldest son Diga Tsun, second son Doddo Tsun and youngest son Mida Tsun for house.Lutim, so ept it with a heart of gratitude!
Youngest son Did he just say youngest son?
Then that meat balloon was the youngest. Even the oldest Diga Tsun looked younger than twenty.
No That wasnt important.
I clenched my fist and observed the people around me.
The women were nervous.
The men was furious.
All the men showed their hunter eyes, and took the stance of one. If anything happened, they would draw the sabre on their waist.
That was a natural reaction.
After all, the men from the Tsun n was tarnishing their kins banquet.
Even if these despicable people hailed from the chief n, the proud hunters would not permit them to barge into the banquet in such a way.
But none of them moved.
The sound of the men gritted their teeth so hard that the very sound of that could be heard. They clenched their fist so hard that blood almost burst out as their fury rages quietly.
I heard that If someone went up against the chief Tsun n openly, it would lead to a civil war that tears Forest''s Edge apart, and the denizens might lose their lives.
Was that why no one protested against this?
Was Donda Wu and Dan Lutim fuming in a corner of the za too?
But I couldnt stay silent.
Since I wasnt from the Wu n or Lutim house, I felt I was qualified to engage them.
I went around the kibas carcass, through the fumes and faced off against those men.
The next moment, fiery fires burned in the eyes in two of the three men.
But their eyes were still murky.
What do you people want!?
Ished out at them.
Their eyes turned more ferocious.
I didnt hear that there will be any other guests! Im only supposed to provide a meal for the Wu main house, and the hundred odd kin of the Lutim house. I never heard about anyst minute additions!
Outside You foreigner leeching off the Fa house!
Diga Tsun took a step forward.
He had a saber tied to his waist, but we were far enough away that he couldnt reach me even if he pounce my way or that was what I guessed.
Members of the Wu n! Members of the Lutim house! Whats going on here, you will host this outsider for your banquet, but not invite the Tsun n!? Eighty years ago, the Min house was also a kin house of the Tsun n If you invite outsiders, then the Tsun n has the right to send their blessings too!
Please discuss this with the Wu n and Lutim house heads! Im tending to the hearth for this banquet in exchange of the payment made by the Lutim house! I wont allow anyone to disrupt my work!
I tried to pass the initiative to Dan Lutim and the others.
Since these despicable people were at fault, I will rebuke them with proper logic, then the situation would be to our advantage. That was what I nned in my mind! But I couldnt help speaking my mind, turning the rage in my heart into words and forcing them out of my mouth.
I pointed at the pitiful carcass of the kiba.
Clean up the carcass of the kiba right now! We will talk after you are done! Can you enjoy kiba meat while staring at the carcass of a kiba? Can you drink kiba soup heartily while smelling the stench of the kibas blood? I wont ept this for a banquet Im in charge of! Get that kiba out of here right now!
You brat!
After that, if you receive permission from the head of the Lutim house, I will serve you food. However, I cant remake the food that you have ruined! If you disrupt my work any further, I will ask for remuneration from the Tsun n!
Diga Tsuns entire body shook.
Doddo Tsun who was standing besides him draw his de.
The women scream rippled through the crowd.
Retard! How can you draw your saber in a banquet!
A steel and icy voice cut off the screams of the women.
The strength in this voice overwhelmed that of the retarded sons of the Tsun n and me, filled with pride and rage
Ai Fas voice echoed through the entire za.
My family member Asuta and I attended this banquet because of a trade we made with the eldest son of house Lutim, Kan Lutim! Outsiders dont have the rights to criticize this! I will let the head of the Lutim house deal with you but I wont permit you to draw your de against a member of the Fa house!
Ai Fa walked forth from a dark corner with strong strides.
She raised her head and puffed her chest with determination, and red at the intruders with fiery eyes while dressed in elegant banquet attire.
4
Ai Fa
Her blonde locks fell slowly to her waist.
She wore a veil that shimmered like gems on her head, with flowers and berries adorned on her hair.
essories made from berries and metal were ced on her neck, arms and ankles, a thin piece of purple sheer fabric swayed on her hips.
She was in banquet attire like the other women.
Even though she was dressed just like them Ai Fa was more mourous and beautiful than anyone else. At least that was how she appears in my eyes.
The only difference she had with the other women was the sheathed de in her hands, and the stern expression of a brave hunter on her face.
Ai Fa I havent seen you for a long time?
Diga Tsun held back his younger brother who had drawn his de, then turned towards Ai Fa.
What happened, you are dressed like a woman Youre finally considering marriage?
Diga Tsuns murky eyes had the gleam of unhappiness. A despicable smile appeared on his rxed face.
When I saw his face that harbours ill intentions I almost lost my cool in rage and wanted to pounce on him/
Do not look at Ai Fa with those murky eyes!
Not only did this man insulted my work, he also n to tarnish someone important to me?
Ai Fa was unusually calm in the face of these hateful gazes,pletely unlike me.
Hmmp. It would make the other attendees unpleasant if an unwed woman didnt put on banquet wear. After hearing this advice, I had to put on this veil. Eldest son of the Tsun n, after I threw you into the icy river two years ago, you should know very well that I dont need a husband.
Why you!
No need for talk, keep your de! Barging into a banquet without any invitation, disrupting the peace and attempting tomit harm. Are these actions a member of the chief n should be doing? Since you are from the chief n, then you should act as a model for the denizens of Forest''s Edge!
Diga Tsun and Doddo Tsun red at Ai Fa with agitated emotions.
The meat balloon like youngest brother was standing besides them, but his gaze lies elsewhere. He then said with his strange voice out of the blue:
Hey, something smell nice Mida is hungry...
His voice was as high pitched as a toddler.
Normally, therger a body was, the deeper the voice would be. But was he so fat that his voice box was being squeezed?
His existence seems to represent how far the Tsun n had fallen.
Shut up! You mentally challenged kid!
The youngest brother turned silent unhappily after his brother yelled at him.
This might be a good chance, so I probed the three of them for a reaction:
Since you insist that you are here to gift your blessings for this wedding, then sheath your de and take care of this kiba. If you receive permission from the head of the Lutim house, I will prepare food for you
Who will allow that!? the one who answered wasnt from the Tsun n.
A man emitting killing intent approached from behind me.
I turned back, and behind me were Dan Lutim and Donda Wu.
Dan Lutim was still holding arge spare rib in his hand, and veins were bulging out from his bald head.
Donda Wu had a fruit wine bottle in hand, his feral face had a faint smile.
Fire were burning in both their eyes.
The two heads were more furious than anyone else present.
You brats you dare desecrate my sons wedding!?
Never mind Donda Wu, this was the first time I have seen that uncle from house Lutim being so furious.
His round eyes were so wide that they were almost going to pop out, his thick brows were raised up high. His loose facial muscles were cramping, white teeth could be seen through his open mouth and the thick artery on his temple was throbbing.
Compared to now, his anger towards me in the past was akin to that directed to a puppy that pissed in the wrong ce. Right now, he was truly like an arabian demon god.
Could the Tsun n people keep their cool after seeing the fury of the Lutim house head? When I turned my gaze back to the front
Diga Tsun stood stiffly with a pale face.
Doddo Tsun tightened his grip on his de with trembling hands.
And Mida Tsun He just stood there confused.
Who wants to ept blessings from despicable people like you! Who the hell will treat you despicable lot to a delicious meal!
As Dan Lutim roared, he bit the ribs in his hand, and threw the leftover bones onto the ground.
Donda Wu also took arge step forward.
Brats of the Tsun n You think you squits can be our opponents? If you want to taunt the Wu n and Lutim house, then bring your n head and all the men with you!
His roar was like a p of thunder.
I heard a shrill scream from Diga Tsun faintly.
Given how old this kiba is, is its meat even edible? Who wants blessings from brats like you!
Dan Lutim strode forth, and grabbed the kiba in the stove by its fur.
The next second, something unbelievable happened
Dan Lutim lifted the massive kiba that weigh almost a hundred kilograms over his head with his bear hands.
This kiba might be about Dan Lutims weight, his brute force was incredible.
Uwah, uwahh!!
Diga Tsun kept backing away.
Doddo Tsun looked like he wanted to flee.
Even Mida Tsun screamed Wahh.
Get lost!
Dan Lutim threw the entire kiba.
Uwahh!
Diga Tsun andpany grabbed their heads and scampered away.
The kibas body rolled pitifully on the ground. When the spears on its back snapped off, it had rolled to the entrance of the za.
Diga Tsun and his group had already disappeared into the night.
A bunch of retards!
Loud cheers drowned out Dan Lutims roar..
The thunderous cheers proved how much they detested the Tsun n, what they thought and how they usually suppress their agitated emotions.
Dan Lutim sorry for being too rash.
I took off the towel wrapped around my head and bowed to Dan Lutim.
His demon god-like face instantly turned into a gentle smile.
Mr Asuta, what are you saying!? I merely couldnt moved for a while because I was so mad that I couldnt breath! You said what I was thinking at that moment, and that was what made me regain my senses!
Did he just said Mr Asuta?
When I realized it, Ai Fa was standing besides me.
She was showing her usual cold face.
But her attire waspletely different.
Those brats only came here because the alcohol got into their heads. If their actions are sanctioned by the n head, they would have brought the men from the branch family with them.
Donda Wus eyes still had remnants of rage, and he finished his bottle of fruit wine in one breath.
Hey! Return that old kiba to the forest! The monta will wipe away the mistakes made by those brats.
Several men nodded, and rushed to that pitiful kiba.
When he saw this scene, Dan Lutims brows drooped in sorrow.
Ara, I feel bad for that kiba. If you get reincarnated into a kiba again, I will properly eat you next time!
I couldnt help butugh. Dan Lutim turned to me and said:
Mr Asuta! After venting my rage, Im hungry now! Is the next dish ready yet?
When hisrge hands were about to grab my shoulder I backed away quickly
Your hands! Please wash your hands! You grabbed the fur of the kiba just now! Dont grab the ribs by your hands to eat them!
The ribs are all gone. Mr Asuta, are there anymore ribs?
Dan Lutim pouted his thick lips.
His face was just like a toddler throwing a tantrum.
If there are any left, I will grill them. So please wash your hands and wait Alright then, I still have work to do.
Okay! Thanks, Mr Asuta!
I nced at Ai Fa.
Ai Fa nodded, turned around and said:
I will take care of the damaged stove.
I looked at her long blonde hair and her beautiful figured wrapped in a translucent cloth. A short whileter I ran to the stove room.
Time passed, and the banquet finally reached its climax.
The bride and groom sat on the stage and watched the banquet this entire time. And now, guided by the elders from the Lutim house and Min house, they walked down the stage.
The elders led the two to the stove erected opposite the stage.
Jiba Wu held Vena Wus hand, and waited for them.
The couple knelt before Jiba Wu, the groom grabbed his right shoulder while the bride grabbed her left shoulder, and they both lowered their heads.
Herbs were burning in the stove. Jiba Wu removed the grass crown with trembling fingers from their heads, and heated them with the smokeing out from the stove.
She then ced the grooms crown onto the bride, and the brides crown onto the groom.
After the two got up slowly, Jiba Wu removed two tusks and horns from her ne, and gifted one to each of them.
I gift my blessings to you two Tonight, Ema Min will be the wife of Kan Lutim of the Lutim house, and is bestowed with the name of Ema Min Lutim. This will deepen the bonds between the Min and Lutim House, and lead Forest''s Edge to greater prosperity and strength.
The forest bestows Ema Min Lutim to Kan Lutim.
The forest bestows Kan Lutim to Ema Min Lutim.
All their kins erupted in cheers once more.
The women from the Wu branch house carried an iron pot through the cheering crowd, and ced it on the stove that was burning the herbs.
In the pot was a hamburg steak that was not finished yet, a piece of steak left specially for the couple.
The women added firewood quickly and brought the stove to a raging me. Even a strong fire wasnt enough to describe the heat right now.
After that, the women took Jiba Wus hands and took a step back.
Vena Wu walked to the front this time.
ording to the customs, the oldest unwed woman of all the kin house will offer this meat to the bride, which represents the first piece of meat the bride would ept after changing her family name.
Vena Wu stood in front of the stove, and grabbed the fruit wine hanging on her waist.
The bottle only contained the necessary amount.
Vena Wu poured the content into the pot nimbly.
The next instance, a bright red me erupted, and then vanished without a trace.
Uwah the kins all cheered.
Vena Wu took a step back and pointed to the pot gracefully.
The women shifted half of the firewood to adjust the fire.
The bride and groom walked to the stove, took the skewers from the women and pry open the hamburg steak.
As I watched the bride stuff the meat into her mouth, my work was officially done.