The crimson princess

Pov Dia,

Guy: "So you're saying we're here to eat a meal prepared by Shion, Dia-sama?"

Dia: "Yes. You all know each other, but we haven't really shared moments like this yet. I don't want there to be any distinction between the new members of my peerage and the old ones."

Guy: "If that's what you want. But shouldn't someone assist her?"

Dia: "She said she could manage everything on her own. It may not be perfect, but that's not the point. What I want is for us to share a nice moment together."

We were all 14, sitting and waiting for Shion, who had volunteered to cook, to bring the meal. I truly hoped this would be a pleasant time; the goal was to bond with everyone in my peerage.

Carrera: "Well, she'd better hurry because I'm still hungry. By the way, Dia-sama, what has she planned for the meal?"

Dia: "I think she wanted to try making a pot-au-feu. It's nice to see someone so motivated to try something new. Though, you've already had some experience with her cooking, haven't you?"

Saying this, I turned to the Oni because if anyone could speak to Shion's culinary talents, it would be them.

Hakurou: "I'm sorry, but I don't recall ever seeing Shion cook."

The other three Oni nodded in agreement.

Dia: "All the better—it'll make this discovery more exciting."

I immediately regretted that thought.

Shion: "It's ready!"

She arrived carrying a pot that presumably contained our meal. Carrera, being very hungry, was nearly ready to leap onto the food.

When Shion removed the lid, everyone froze in amazement—or perhaps horror. Inside the pot was… well, that was a good question. What greeted us could only be described as an abomination straight out of hell.

I glanced at my subordinates, and they all seemed to share the same reaction. Even Rimuru, despite her usually calm demeanor, had beads of sweat forming on her forehead.

Dia: "Ah… well, it's certainly a very original presentation! You never know—it might taste great."

Never judge a book by its cover, I reminded myself.

She took the ladle and dipped it into the dubious substance. It made a strange noise that only heightened our fear, but our terror reached a point of no return when she lifted the ladle and it had melted.

Never trust those expressions; they are nonsense.

It's not a meal, she said, invoking that abyssal thing.

Looking at Rimuru, she was shaking, and no one could move. Hakurou tried to erase his presence before I brought it back with my magic. Rain and Misery were standing frozen, trembling as if their worst nightmare was approaching.

Dia: 'I forbid you all to say that Shion's cooking is disgusting. We will try to make her stop cooking, but nothing else.'

She seemed so happy to prepare the meal that we couldn't destroy her dreams.

They all seemed to blame me because we always end up eating this stuff.

Dia: 'Use any method you want as long as she doesn't notice it; that's what matters. But nobody leaves this table without finishing their so-called meal.'

Shion: "The first portion is for Dia-sama."

All the members of my peerage looked at me with apologetic expressions but made no effort to help. Betrayal. Disgrace.

I was on the verge of tears when an idea came to me.

Dia: "What, Sera? You want me to help you with an emergency, but I'm eating. This can't wait? Okay, I'll be there as soon as I can."

I picked up my plate and utensils and consumed it at lightning speed, ensuring that any food entering my mouth was completely destroyed.

Dia: "It was very good. Sorry to disturb, but I must leave now."

Shion seemed sad, but I had at least eaten her meal, so it was acceptable.

Rimuru: "I'll go with you, Dia-sama."

Dia: "No, you stay and eat. That's an order."

What nerve she has, after leaving me in such a mess earlier. I immediately sought refuge with Sera, who finally reassured me, and what happened later that night was incredible.