Chapter 79: Lin Ximeng and Lady Autumn Snow

Signature dishes, quickest and best within a limited time. Yun Xuan did not hesitate to choose the Golden River Crab Balls. Chef Zhang picked spicy tofu, and before long, the alluring aroma filled the air, whetting everyone’s appetite.

“All done,” Chef Zhang finished first. The staff nearby presented the dish in a bowl, scanned it with their testing device to confirm it was safe, then served it before the four judges.

“Spicy tofu—now this is authentic,” Lin Li scooped up a piece, blew on it, and sent it into his mouth.

“The spicy flavor is excellent, and the tofu is just right. Chef Zhang really showed his skills,” Shen Ping tasted a bite, thinking to himself.

“It’s a pity, though—not quite as good as his,” Su Yinya had only tasted a single bite before setting down her spoon and turning her gaze to Yun Xuan.

Lin Ximeng, as a taster, did not comment, but quietly finished the dish.

“Mine is ready as well.” Yun Xuan scooped up a serving, which also underwent testing. The Golden River Crab Balls—herb-free version—were set before the four.

“This aroma is comparable to the spicy tofu, but it looks a bit light…” Lin Li frowned and took a bite.

The next moment, Lin Li’s eyes widened. The crab balls were dusted with golden powder, blended from ten spices, and with the first bite, it was as though the spices ignited inside his mouth.

The freshness and fragrance fused perfectly, creating a masterpiece of flavor. Spicy tofu, though delicious, simply couldn’t compare.

Shen Ping and Su Yinya even finished the soup, and Lin Ximeng did the same—it was her first time tasting something so exquisite.

“You have bested us.” Seeing their reactions, Yun Xuan smiled gently and gave a respectful gesture to Chef Zhang.

“There’s always someone better out there—I concede,” Chef Zhang gave a thumbs-up.

“My skills pale in comparison—I won’t embarrass myself any further. Master Yun, you are truly remarkable.” Finally, Chef Mu simply withdrew from the competition.

“You are all esteemed seniors. If I spoke out of turn earlier, please forgive me. If you ever come to Fangyu City, both Autumn Tower and Xuanxue Restaurant are open to you—I will make sure to treat you well.” Yun Xuan responded with courtesy toward the three chefs, handing out his business card.

“Absolutely!” The three four-star chefs accepted the card.

Watching Yun Xuan’s actions, Su Yinya admired him even more.

After the contest, the five began preparing their dishes.

—

At noon, the banquet began.

Yun Xuan’s creations drew the most attention. The upper echelons praised them, and the final dish was personally taken away by Su Yinya, allowing Yun Xuan to finally breathe a sigh of relief.

The banquet’s purpose was to entertain these distinguished guests, but for four-star chefs, it meant recognition—the Culinary Management Association would record Yun Xuan’s performance, and perhaps his rise to five-star chef would not be far off.

The most tangible reward was boosting the reputation of his hotel and restaurant.

These guests cared little for money, but valued health and fine dining.

Yun Xuan’s improved Eight Treasure Porridge won high praise from the elders, and his Golden River Crab Balls, infused with a hint of herbs, opened everyone’s eyes.

“Master Yun Xuan, may I disturb you for a moment?” A young woman entered from the doorway.

“You’re someone from General Lin’s circle—you must be third generation of the Lin family?” Yun Xuan looked at Lin Ximeng.

“Ahem, allow me to introduce myself: I am Autumn Snow Princess,” Lin Ximeng smiled softly.

“Autumn Snow Princess?!” Yun Xuan stared in shock—was this legendary platinum figure of the comic world really a descendant of the general?

“That’s a secret. If you don’t mind, could I have your contact information?” Lin Ximeng was pleased with Yun Xuan’s reaction, blinked, and took out her phone.

“I never imagined Autumn Snow Princess would be so young.” Yun Xuan was still incredulous.

“And I didn’t expect you to be even more talented than me. Looks like I’ll have to post about this—Master Yun Xuan, winner of the Star-Moon Cup, is also a four-star chef.” Lin Ximeng tapped her phone to send the message.

“Ding!” Yun Xuan’s phone chimed. He checked his public account, and finally had to believe the person before him truly was Autumn Snow Princess.

—

Autumn Snow Princess: @Yun Xuan, I was fortunate to meet Master Yun today—who would have thought he’s also a four-star chef and bearer of the Food Spirit title!

Spectator A: What the—??

Spectator B: Nice name, mate. Yun Xuan? The Star-Moon Cup winner is actually a chef?

Spectator D: Not bad above. Yun Xuan, awesome—he’s a top chef and an artist. Wait… Master Yun, what does Autumn Snow Princess look like? Photo, please @Yun Xuan.

Spectator C: You beat me to it! @Yun Xuan, same request—photo, please.

Yun Xuan opened another public account, launched after the Star-Moon Cup. Followers now numbered one hundred thousand.

Thanks to Autumn Snow Princess’s post, fans surged instantly, with the four-star chef tag added.

“Miss Lin, this…” Yun Xuan could only smile wryly.

—

“My photo absolutely cannot be released, or you’ll be invited for tea by certain people. Master Yun Xuan, when I visit Fangyu City next time, you must show me more of your works—and your delicious cuisine.” Lin Ximeng grinned mischievously, putting away her phone.

“Speaking of works, there’s something I owe you an apology for.” Yun Xuan admitted to collaborating with Master Beifang on “Magical Girl Madoka.”

“Master Yun, could you introduce Master Beifang to me? I adore Beifang-chan—have all the merchandise and comics.” Lin Ximeng’s eyes lit up.

“I’m afraid not—he won’t let me tell anyone. All I can say is, he’s handsome, talented, but just a tiny bit less than me,” Yun Xuan replied with mock seriousness.

Lin Ximeng was amused, covering her mouth as she laughed.

“It’s about time—I should be heading out. Miss Lin, until next time.” Yun Xuan glanced at his phone.

“Just call me Ximeng. When ‘Magical Girl Madoka’ airs, I’ll definitely watch it,” Lin Ximeng extended her hand.

“All right, just call me Yun Xuan,” he replied, shaking her hand, thus formally becoming friends.

Lin Ximeng, being from the Lin family, didn’t need to curry favor, and befriended Yun Xuan simply out of appreciation.

Yun Xuan sensed no pretense in her gaze; both harbored goodwill toward each other, but it remained at friendship.

That afternoon, Yun Xuan departed from the capital.

At night, he returned to Fangyu City, and upon landing, went straight home to rest.

Important matters awaited him, and Yun Xuan was determined not to fail.

—

Eleven o’clock at night.

“We’ve identified three suspicious locations: the Culinary Academy director’s residence, Sacred Cherry Blossom Girls’ High School, and Qianjing Shrine.” Bai’s voice came over the phone.

“And your reasoning?” Yun Xuan asked, puzzled.

“All were established recently, founders unknown,” Bai provided a clue.

“All right, I’ll check them out tomorrow,” Yun Xuan hung up, feeling a headache coming on.

Sacred Cherry Blossom Girls’ High School? How was he supposed to get in?

(P.S.: Azur Lane’s server opened so late today—my dorm shipgirls must be starving… Please vote for recommendations!)