The Eccentric Entomologist is Now a Queen's Consort

Chapter 204 The Monster Feast

The group gathered around the Skalvern's massive body, the beast lying still on the ground, its thorny fur glistening in the fading sunlight. Mikhailis adjusted his glasses, tapping the side to activate the augmented display. Instantly, data began to filter through his vision, and Rodion's voice spoke in his mind, guiding him as he assessed the creature.

Bright markers appeared, coloring the beast's body in sections. Red highlighted the dangerous parts—glands that were filled with toxic substances. Green indicated the consumable meat, mostly in the legs and parts of the back.

"So, the legs are the best bet," Mikhailis muttered, his gaze following Rodion's recommendations.

The creature was intimidating even in death—scales covering its legs, thorns protruding from its thick coat. He grinned, nodding.

"Looks like we won't starve tonight." Experience more tales on empire

Rodion's voice, cold and mechanical, continued.

Mikhailis looked at the group, who had formed a wary circle around the Skalvern. Cerys watched him with curiosity, her eyes reflecting both interest and caution.

"Alright, folks," Mikhailis said, clapping his hands together.

"We have a plan. Legs it is. Avoid the head and guts. Trust me, you don't want to know what's in there." He gave a grin, which earned a reluctant smile from Cerys.

"Are you really sure about this?" Lira's voice broke through, her eyes filled with a hint of doubt. She stood with her hands on her hips, her long black ponytail swaying slightly in the wind.

"You know, I've seen you do some crazy things, but this? Cooking a Skalvern?"

Mikhailis waved her off, giving her a carefree wink.

"Ah, Lira, just trust me on this one. Besides, I've got my super brain guiding me every step of the way."

Vyrelda, standing nearby, had her arms crossed, her brow furrowed in skepticism.

"I have to say, this is a first. Cooking a Skalvern... If anyone could make it work, though, it'd be you."

Mikhailis raised an eyebrow, pretending to be surprised.

"Is that a compliment, Vyrelda? Are you saying I'm capable of miracles?"

Vyrelda just rolled her eyes, though the corner of her mouth twitched up in what might have been an amused smile.

"Just don't poison us, Mike."

I bet she just realized not to call me Your Highness. That's way too late, girlie.

He laughed.

"I'll do my best."

Taking a makeshift knife from his pack, Mikhailis knelt down beside the Skalvern's body. He began carefully cutting away the thorny fur, his hands steady as he worked. The beast's thick skin made the task slow, the knife catching against scales as he removed anything marked in red by Rodion's augmented reality display.

Forty-five minutes, huh? Mikhailis thought, glancing at the large creature before him.

Better get to work.

Cerys knelt opposite him, placing her hands on the beast to keep it stable. She watched with curiosity as Mikhailis worked, her eyes occasionally darting to the glowing display on his glasses.

"I still can't believe we're doing this," she said, shaking her head with a smile.

Mikhailis reached for the dried onions, sprinkling them over the meat.

"This should give it a bit of sweetness," he said, nodding to himself.

Rodion's voice cut through his thoughts, and Mikhailis complied, making the necessary adjustments. He occasionally moved the meat's position, ensuring every part was perfectly cooked. The fire crackled, and the aroma of roasting meat filled the camp, a faint sizzle accompanying the sound.

"I have to admit," Vyrelda said after a while, her voice reluctant, "that smells... better than I expected."

Mikhailis turned to her, giving a theatrical bow.

"See? No need to doubt the master chef."

Estella, who had been standing back, took a step forward, a smile forming on her lips.

"You're quite talented for a mercenary," she said, her tone impressed.

"I didn't think Skalvern could be turned into something that actually smells appetizing."

Mikhailis laughed, shrugging.

"Stick around, and you might find it'll be your favorite dish."

After nearly an hour, the Skalvern meat had taken on a deep brown color, the edges caramelized to perfection. Mikhailis used a knife to slice off a small piece, blowing on it before taking a careful bite. His eyes widened in satisfaction, and he nodded approvingly.

"Not bad at all," he said, turning to Lira.

"Alright, everyone, dig in."

The group gathered around the fire, each with a portion of the roasted Skalvern meat. They ate in relative silence, the only sounds being the crackling of the fire and the occasional soft comments exchanged between bites. The meat was tender, smoky, and savory, the dried onions adding a subtle sweetness that enhanced the overall flavor.

Cerys took a bite, her eyes widening in surprise.

"This is... actually really good," she said, almost sounding shocked.

Vyrelda nodded, taking another bite.

"I'll admit, I doubted you, Mike. But this... this is impressive."

Lira laughed softly, shaking her head.

"I guess we should put you in charge of all our meals from now on."

Mikhailis winked.

"Happy to oblige. But don't expect Skalvern every night."

Estella, who had finally joined them, took a cautious bite, her eyes meeting Mikhailis's as she chewed. A smile spread across her lips.

"You're full of surprises, aren't you?"

Mikhailis shrugged, his grin playful.

"That's what keeps life interesting."

The group finished their meal, clearly more relaxed now that their hunger had been sated. The sun had long since set, the sky above them darkening as stars began to emerge, casting a soft, ethereal light over the campsite. There was a sense of camaraderie in the air, forged through shared experiences and victories, however small.

Vyrelda and Cerys began setting up a perimeter, their movements efficient and practiced as they checked the surrounding area for any signs of danger. Lira, ever the picture of composure, helped unpack bedrolls and set up a small tent for Mikhailis.

It's time for the second camp.