An Understated Dominance (Maria Vittori) novel Chapter 1918

Dustin and Grace were just watching the scene unfold when, suddenly, the ponytailed girl turned her focus on them. It took them a moment to shake off the surprise.

“Exactly! Just look at their dishes. Each is a culinary masterpiece. Compare that to what we’ve got on our table-it’s just garbage!”

“I don’t care! Swap our food right now, or we’ll cause a scene!” the group shouted. In the middle of their protest, they angrily tossed the food from their table onto the floor, making a mess.

“I’m afraid our small establishment has a few constraints when it comes to swapping these exquisite dishes,” the waiter explained, wearing a regretful and apologetic expression.

“You can’t swap them? Are you suggesting that we can’t afford it?” Bran frowned.

“Damn! Are you seriously discriminating against us? Do you even know who we are?” the ponytailed girl shouted.1

“We are disciples of the renowned Frostwing Sect. If you piss us off, we might just have to give your inn a bit of a makeover, you know?” she threatened.

“I’m sorry. It looks like there’s a bit of a misunderstanding,” the nervous waiter clarified.1

He continued, “The other guests’ personal chefs prepared those dishes. We provide only the kitchen facilities.”

“What? Personal chefs? Seriously? Who in the world hires a chef while traveling?” The ponytailed girl seemed skeptical.

She knew that those who explored the Deadlands were typically treasure- hunting adventurers. However, bringing a personal chef on such a journey was unheard of.

“It’s true. I witnessed it myself. I wouldn’t lie to you,” the waiter earnestly insisted. Upon hearing this, the Frostwing Sect disciples exchanged glances. They eventually directed their attention toward Dustin and Grace.

“Hey, are these dishes prepared by your chef?” The ponytailed girl approached, inspecting their table with a curious gaze.

“Yes.” Grace nodded. “We decided to bring our chef because we couldn’t get used to the local cuisine.”

“Really?” The ponytailed girl scrutinized the dishes on the table and couldn’t hide her awe.

She continued, “Shrimp Avocado Salad, Pecan-Crusted Trout Fillet, Spicy Chicken Tacos, Maple-Glazed Pork Bites, and even Clam Chowder. There’s a variety of mouthwatering dishes. Do you think you guys can finish all of this?”

Without giving Grace a chance to reply, the girl snagged a fork and sampled a bit of the filet. In an instant, her eyes sparkled, and a look of pleasant surprise flashed across her face.

“This is so tasty!”

She quickly motioned for the others to join, not noticing Dustin and Grace’s reactions. “Hey Bran, check this out! We’ve got something delicious here. Come over and give it a try!”

Disregarding Grace and Dustin’s feelings, the ponytailed girl rallied her fellow sect members.

Faced with the irresistible spread of dishes, they couldn’t resist the temptation. Their delight was immeasurable after traveling a significant distance and being utterly hungry.

“We’re taking over this table, so you guys might want to scout out a different table for your meal,” Bran declared. He casually tossed a gold bar onto the table arrogantly.

“Huh?” Dustin raised an eyebrow, shooting them a disdainful look. “Got an issue here? Just barging in without an invite and now trying to boot us out? Do you think you own this inn?”

If these people were a bit more easygoing, maybe a friendly drink or meal could have been in the cards, and friendship might have blossomed.