NOVEL NEXT Chapter 13: Chapter 13: A Sudden Battle
The following week, as Elias worked on a new recipe, the door burst open, and a group of knights stumbled in, looking battle-worn.
"Your Majesty!" one of them gasped, addressing the king, who had just entered the restaurant. "Monsters have breached the southern border!"
The announcement sent the room into chaos. Adventurers jumped to their feet, grabbing their weapons, while villagers scrambled to safety.
King Alden turned to Elias. "Stay here, young one. This is no place for a chef."
But Elias stepped forward, his eyes steely. "Your Majesty, please allow me to help. I may be a chef, but I'm also strong enough to protect those I care about."
The king hesitated, then nodded. "Very well. Stay close to my guards."
As they rushed to the battlefield, Elias found himself amidst adventurers and knights. The scene was dire—a horde of monsters swarmed a caravan, attacking helpless traders.
Elias stepped forward, summoning a barrier to shield the traders. Then, with a flick of his wrist, he cast fire spells that incinerated the monsters in waves. His precision and power left the knights and adventurers in awe.
"This kid… he's incredible!" one muttered.