C8 Opening the Banquet

"It smells incredible. That's the signature scent from the Xu Jialong family. I've heard they've got a chef with some serious cooking chops."

"Calling it 'good' is an understatement. I've scoured the whole village and can't find a second flavor that holds a candle to his. I'm skipping lunch this afternoon just to save room for that meal!"

"Speaking of which, Mrs. Taohua, weren't you planning to take your daughter there? Where is she?"

Mrs. Taohua gestured dismissively, her face clouded with displeasure.

"She told me she'd come, but then she got all caught up with her selfie stick and phone, claiming she's a blogger and wants to live stream the whole thing. I can't make heads or tails of it."

"Ha, that's youth for you. You might not get it, but Hua sure does. Just wait until your daughter and Hua meet—oh boy..."

"I've been watching Hua today; the guy's a bundle of energy, strong as an ox. If your daughter and he hit it off, who knows? You might be cuddling a grandbaby by next year!"

"Let's not count our chickens before they hatch. Grandchildren? I'm not ready to think that far ahead yet."

"Oh, you say you're not ready, but that smile creeping up says otherwise."

What was supposed to be a somber Xu Jialong family affair turned into a joyous event, with everyone buzzing with anticipation, some even jockeying for the best spots.

Faang Hua had finished prepping the meat and veggies. Every table boasted a succulent braised carp, alongside a generous platter of chicken, a hearty mixed vegetable stir-fry, Blueberry Chinese Yam, and stir-fried pork belly.

The veggies were a quick affair, flash-fried to perfection, preserving their crisp texture and flavor.

The tantalizing aroma and presentation had everyone at the table craning their necks for a glimpse.

"This chef is so young, and though he looks slim, he's got strength. And the dishes—absolutely mouthwatering."

"That's Faang Hua for you, Uncle Fang Hong's grandson. Fresh out of college and already a whiz in the kitchen. He's young, but his skills are top-notch!"

"It smells promising, but the proof is in the eating. Let's dig in and see if it lives up to the hype."

Zhang Quan gestured dismissively. Years ago, he had seized a business opportunity and decisively set off to the city to trade. He was kin to both the Xu family and the Loong family through marriage, and with the passing of his father-in-law, he felt compelled to come.

"Isn't it about time to eat? Hey, Old Zhang, how about we grab a drink later?"

"I'm up for a little drink, but let's keep it light. I've got to stay sharp; after all, I've just lost my father-in-law and there are matters I need to attend to."

Zhang Quan offered a wry smile.

As time went on, more people trickled in, lured by the tantalizing aroma to where Faang Hua was cooking.

Clad in his chef's whites and masked, Faang Hua's hands danced as he stir-fried and plated the vegetables with an effortless flair.

"The System's creations are truly exceptional, and I'm feeling stronger than ever!"

Zhang Quan had finished cooking without a hint of fatigue, a stark contrast to his former self who would have been too exhausted to lift a finger.

"Are the dishes all set? Is the rice ready?"

"Just let me know when the rice is cooked, and we'll start the meal!"

Upon hearing this, Mrs. Cuihua sprang into action, calling out, "It's time to start the feast! Help with serving the dishes—it's time to eat!"

At her words, those engrossed in mahjong and playing the suona ceased their activities and began arranging the dishes on the table.

The villagers, always seeking convenience, would spread a plastic cloth over the table before the meal, making cleanup as simple as scooping it up afterward. The next group would then lay down a fresh covering—a routine practice.

But Faang Hua, surveying the crowd, noticed more guests than he had anticipated.

"Uncle, why are there so many people? What if we run out of food?"

In Small Zhuang Village, those who arrived early to eat were there to lend a hand. Typically, it was just the individual, but inviting the whole family along was also an option.