Goblin Dependency

Turns out, the Axe-beaked Bird isn't very tasty.

As the largest and most substantial muscle mass on its body, the breast meat has extremely low fat content, a firm and dry texture, and a very strong fibrous sensation.

Without sufficient seasoning and the right cooking method, it's almost no different from gnawing on bark.

The thigh meat is slightly better, but only slightly, as the meat is too tough, and it becomes dry and coarse after the moisture evaporates.

Fortunately, Xia Nan took two tenderloins located on the inside of the spine when dissecting the carcass.

Their delicate and smooth, tender and juicy texture, combined with a pure and gentle exquisite flavor, are exceptionally delicious even using the simplest countryside cooking methods.

As for the innards...

He specifically picked out the heart of an Axe-beaked Bird before leaving, but even though Leon's sister "Janice" had some experience handling animal organs, the finished product of the sliced heart still retained a strong and deep metallic taste unique to hearts.

The texture is actually quite good, elastic and chewy, but without the complement of seasoning, only those with a heavy taste preference would likely enjoy this type of food.

Of course, all these conclusions from Xia Nan are based on memories of his past life, accustomed to the exacting tastes of modern culinary delicacies.

But for Leon's family, there is none of this thinking, ultimately boiling down to just three words:

"Meat, delicious!"

Xia Nan could clearly feel the sincere appreciation for such carnivorous fare on the table, alongside gratitude towards himself for bringing a creature previously too fearsome to approach, now transformed into delicious monster meat on their plates.

Especially after Leon vividly recounted their encounters in the Grey Valley, embellishing the story around Xia Nan's killing of the Axe-beaked Bird.

Tom and Janice's gazes towards him transformed, imbued with a respect steeped in awe.

Conversely, the little girl "Lily" beside him seemed oblivious, her cheeks stuffed like a squirrel, tilting her head, gazing at Xia Nan with pure, large eyes.

Amused by her reaction, he offered a piece of tenderloin specially left by Leon's family for himself, casually patting her head.

Xia Nan's gaze turned towards Tom across the table, and he asked:

"So... the fog in the Grey Valley, it's indeed unusual, right?"

"Haven't heard of it before at least." With a serious nod, Tom replied.

"Actually, many years ago, Grey Valley wasn't listed as a forbidden zone for villagers, who would go there to gather stones for house repairs or construction."

"There was even once an opportunity to develop a quarry; it nearly materialized until a group of demons, origin unknown, interrupted the process."

"The merchant originally overseeing it died in the attack, and the development plans were abandoned."

As he spoke, Tom glanced at the steaming Axe-beaked Bird meat on the table, his expression complex and subtle.

"But regardless of what Grey Valley was like before, most villagers know, those over thirty might even have gone there as children."

"No one has mentioned dense fog deep within the Grey Valley or ruins filled with an Exotic Realm style."

"All these changes must have appeared only in recent years."

Upon hearing this, Xia Nan's previously uncertain suspicion became instantly clear.

After all, during his daytime inspection in Grey Valley, the dilapidated state of the ruins wasn't something that could form merely within a few years.

The idea of a Secret Realm hidden in the depths of Grey Valley was becoming more certain with his investigation.

"What about 'Dampening' or the 'Ashen Church,' have you heard of those?"

Xia Nan continued to ask.

After putting effort into recalling, Tom shook his head.

"Perhaps... you could ask the village chief?"

"After all, he's the most knowledgeable person in our village; if even he doesn't know, then likely no one does."

"Alright." Noting the evening sky, Xia Nan considered asking tomorrow, "Then tomorrow..."

"Now is fine!" Tom wiped his mouth with his sleeve and stood up by the table, "The chief surely hasn't rested yet, I can take you to him directly."

Surprised by Tom's enthusiasm, but since he suggested it, Xia Nan saw no reason to refuse.

He stood up, instructed Leon beside him:

"There's no training tomorrow, take a small break, have a good rest tonight."

The young still developing, their physical capacity limited, overly intense training yields negative effects, combining work with rest is crucial.

Leon had been training with him for quite a few days now, Xia Nan had seen his efforts, and now it's about time to rest, giving him a day off was appropriate.

Moreover, Xia Nan planned to delve into Grey Valley at dawn, exploring thoroughly to find possible Secret Realm entrances.

Where dangers lurk unknown, they might encounter demons.

Like today's Axe-beaked Birds aren't a problem, but if they face those of higher Challenge Level, he couldn't guarantee Leon's safety in battle.

Better to leave the boy resting in the village, if they run into unforeseen threats, he himself, with his current agility and the displacement effect of [Teeth Hunting], would likely escape.