The boys were in the middle of their usual playful bickering while Asher, sleeves rolled up and apron tied tightly around his waist, stood over a large pot placed atop the iron grill he'd brought out from his item box. The same grill they'd used during the mixer, now stored safely in his inventory, had made a return for this grand occasion.
A savory aroma filled the air as chunks of the meat of a deer, freshly hunted by Asher himself, simmered in a bubbling stew. Tomatoes melted into the broth, releasing a tangy sweetness that danced with the earthy aroma of carrots and garlic. A freshly picked cabbage had been chopped into thin shreds and thrown in last, adding a final flourish to the rich medley.
The scent was so potent it felt like it physically pulled at the boys' stomachs.
"Alright... bring the plates up!" Asher finally called, voice calm and confident.
