Well, I'm envisioning everything now as it comes together. Another of my favorite techniques in writing: Rising Action. In this incredible part one of the ending, we will see the showdown we've all waited for. It's coming, and stories will reach their conclusion. I'm so excited, I couldn't wait to write this so I'm plowing right in! Hopefully it meets your expectations, and I really hope you like it. A good amount of thought went into this, so I really hope it satisfies your patience that many of you have waited so long for. Thanks for reading!
Chapter 12: The Legacy of Polar Star
Nikumi felt fear fester into her heart. She promised that nothing could remove her from Yukihira, unless it was the devil himself. Unfortunately, even thinking of the devil causes him to appear. The footsteps were loud and authoritative. Every step placed as is was meant to placed. An older man, with a jaw line of hardened warrior, a white robe and scars to match. His flowing grey hair exuded an heir of wisdom and experience. The only thing that could remove Nikumi from Yukihira: Senzaemon Nakiri!
"Master Nakiri Sir!" Nikumi exclaimed loudly as she bowed her head quickly.
"Master Nakiri Sir!" Yukihira said, imitating the same gesture.
It was incredibly rare, virtually unheard of for any student to personally be in Senzaemon's presence. Very few students have the honor of Senzaemon's presence as a judge, much less to speak to him directly. This was the most renowned man in the entire culinary community. No chef that was worth anything, did not know who the great Senzaemon Nakiri was. Any great chef that was of some degree of fame, knew of the legend. Senzaemon was the food demon, whose very words was practical prophesy in the culinary community. Because of his esteemed stature, students that failed miserably out of Totsuki were ostracized by everyone; and those that received his praise were glorified. The entire culinary world heralded him with the utmost respect, and even his many enemies dare not face him directly. Not many souls have tasted a dish prepared by Senzaemon, and the legend states: A dish served by Senzaemon Nakiri will be like food served from a God. Any food eaten afterwards would lose all appeal, and only a dish served by Senzaemon Nakiri could satisfy the palate. This is why he was known as the "Food's Demon King!" His meals were both a blessing and a curse. Why he was here at this moment was very strange, almost like an ex machina of sorts if this were a story. (:-p)
The two students remained in the formal bow position until he stood directly before them. His facial expression was his usual rugged, unamused face. He looked down at the both of them, and a sharp fear caused them to tremble slightly.
"Yukihira Sōma and Mito Ikumi, what are two Totsuki students roaming about in the evening?" He asked sternly, with little change in his tone of voice.
"Master Nakiri Sir, we were just getting some fresh air. We had just received some devastating news!" Nikumi stated hesitantly, still in fear of his presence.
"Hmm... referring to the investigation by the Administration Bureau no doubt." He said, as he gripped his chin in rigid contemplation.
"Master Nakiri Sir, why did you go against school rules to allow me entry into Totsuki Academy?" Yukihira asked plainly.
"Miss Mito, would allow myself and Mr. Yukihira a moment to converse in private?" Senzaemon asked politely, in his gruff voice.
"Yes! Master Nakiri Sir!" Nikumi stated nervously, still unnerved by his presence. She quickly shuffled about a hundred feet away and turned her back stiffly, so not to betray his trust that she could overhear their conversation.
"Yukihira Sōma, how has your stay at this Academy been so far?" Senzaemon asked plainly.
"Uh... well... it wasn't what I expected Master Nakiri Sir. I've made some good friends, and it has really pushed me to better my cooking skills. Although recently, things have been progressively getting worse, Sir."
"I see. It troubles you that things are happening within the school that have nothing to do with the spirit of cooking, or competition?" Senzaemon asked, already sensing Yukihira's position.
"Uh... yes Master Nakiri Sir! On top of that, now I am being implicated in cheating. You as well Sir! It's just seems so wrong, and unfair!" Yukihira expressed angrily.
"You would be right to feel frustrated young Mr. Yukihira. I took charge of this school, with a vision to push young aspiring chefs into a world of cutthroats and strict standards. I knew many would see my method's as unfair or exclusionary, but the results were clear. Culinary experts graduating from Totsuki have revolutionized the food industry all across the world! Even students that don't graduate, but made it far into the selection process have seen great success in their own rights."
"That part I can agree with. The food industry is very demanding, and not being able to adapt or provide during intense times will cause you to fail. But this new system being put in place undermines the would be talent of others, by not even allowing them a fair chance to grow! It's wrong!"
"Absolutely young Mr. Yukihira. You asked me why I overruled your application decision? It was because if I had to accept the standards, it would be unfair for your talent to possibly grow simply because my granddaughter has some growth of her own to achieve?" Senzaemon said sternly.
"But to go against school policy as the director Sir, that's a risky move."
"Young Mr. Yukihira, I have been the overseer of countless world renowned chef's, and nobody has graduated from this academy without my personal say so. I have groomed talent since before you were born. You have an incredible gift young man, and your Father has done well to train you." Senzaemon stated.
"The letter did mention you had a connection to him. What was my father like in the academy Sir?" Yukihira asked.
Senzaemon chuckled.
"Your Father was a ruthless competitor, and one of the greatest chef's to ever walk within this academy. At your age, he was already competing at levels you couldn't even imagine. However, his defiance of school procedure and rules drew ire from both classmates and instructors. Incidentally, Jōichirō would always argue that his cooking was proof of himself and that was something nobody could argue against." Senzaemon said in a lighter tone, reminiscing about his time when Jōichirō was at Totsuki.
"Mr Nakiri Sir, what made my Father so extraordinary? Why can't I be better than him?" Yukihira asked, hoping the Master himself might bestow a good answer he can work with.
Senzaemon anticipated this question, and thought carefully how to proceed. He saw in Yukihira the same level of passion and vigor as Jōichirō. Senzaemon could sense in Yukihira's dishes that he had the same skills as Jōichirō, albeit a lack of experience. Yukihira didn't realize it, but the only reason Jōichirō was always able to best Yukihira was because Yukihira was using Jōichirō's own methods. When Jōichirō sent Yukihira off to Totsuki, it was merely because there was nothing left for him to teach. Yukihira needed to discover his own path now. His food always echoed imitations of his father's style, but it was still missing something personal. Senzaemon closed his eyes, and prepared to dispense some sagely advice to Yukihira.
"Mr. Yukihira Sōma, you know that people can tell a chef by the food they serve. When a chef makes a meal, they are giving that person something special. That chef has carefully crafted the meal, refined his craft and methods, to ensure the consumer's utmost satisfaction. You have a unique trait Yukihira in that every dish you make is layered with unique styles, and hidden method's that lead to an entertaining and enjoyable experience. You do stuff with food, that even some of the best chef's at this school couldn't do as well as you. On raw talent and ingenuity alone, you match or even excel beyond your peers. This is very much because of Jōichirō's influence no doubt."
"Mr. Yukihira, you have incredible gifts and I recognized them instantly when I tried your dish that you presented to Erina during your entry exam. Again, you confirmed my suspicions at the Autumn elections as well. You have a knack for service and showmanship, flexibility and adaption. Core fundamentals for any chef. However, despite the sheer tenacity and impression your food leaves, it's missing something more. When I said your food had 'no essence' you may not have interpreted my words the wrong way. You cook with the purpose of honoring your Mother and Father's restaurant; but your food displays skills beyond that expectation. Your food gives the impression of young boy trying to slay giants! A childish ambition; this is not in tune with what you present as it is merely an imitation of someone else's craft. Yes you took your father's methods and made them uniquely your own; but what your father taught you exceeds beyond such simple ideas you portray. Imagine if all someone used a state-of-the-art computer for, was to use it's calculator! This machine allows for the user to do so much more, but it's potential is wasted. Realize in yourself, what will allow you to truly showcase the potential of your craft." Senzaemon finished.
Yukihira was listening intently, amazed at Senzaemon's great insight all coming from just eating a few dishes that he prepared. Senzaemon Nakiri was definitely living up to the prestige that preceded him, but Yukihira was still confused as to what he was referring to. His whole life and desire is poured into his meals. Still, the great and wise Senzaemon Nakiri says it's still lacking. What secret method or technique, could he possibly be hinting at? He mentioned that his Father's teachings allow for something more to be presented, but what was it?
"Master Nakiri Sir, I am grateful for your incredible wisdom. Still, I just can't understand what You, my Father, and Damian are talking about. What am I missing?" Yukihira pleaded.
"You see that young lady over there." Senzaemon motioned Yukihira to look at Nikumi.
"What do you think about her?" Senzaemon asked with a serious look, not moving his face in the slightest.
Yukihira blushed, and felt extremely awkward at the question. He knew, however that to try and lie to the great Senzaemon Nakiri would be extremely disrespectful.
"Uh... well... to be honest; she is a great friend. Our first time meeting she was very dismissive of simple things like Donburi and my status as a diner chef. After our match, she became a good supporting friend of mine. I'm glad I met her." Yukihira said, trying to hide his shyness.
Senzaemon's eyebrow twitched, as he exercised the greatest restraint from face palming himself. He was astonished at Yukihira's complete denseness to the point he was trying to make. Clearly he had to be more candid about his message, if Yukihira was going to have any hope.
"Look at her posture. Examine her physique. She radiates an aura doesn't she? She is quite lovely isn't she? There will come a time when you look at her, and everything will make complete sense." Senzaemon finished, hoping that would be enough to convince Yukihira of what he needed to do.
Yukihira looked over at Nikumi and was reminded of her stunning beauty. He had always known she was amazing, but recently she began to take the center of all his thoughts. He recalled all their interactions together, and it quelled the tension he had been feeling lately. Ever since the end of the Autumn Elections, Yukihira hasn't been the same as his normal happy-go-lucky self. He was feeling like he lost his way, but when he thought of Nikumi, it made it all seem trivial. His mind was starting to connect all the dots now. His thoughts lead him back to the feeling he had, on the verge of hopelessness, when Nikumi hugged him tightly and spark snapped in his mind. Yukihira's expression turned into a soft look of astonishment. His eyes widened as his mind finally reached a new level of enlightenment. The hopelessness gripping his world had finally started to fall, and now he could see clearly all he needed to do.
"There is another matter we need to discuss Yukihira Sōma." Senzaemon interrupted, getting the feeling Yukihira was on his way to a breakthrough.
"I am being reviewed by the Shokugeki Administration Bureau, and my place at Totsuki is in question. At this point it's merely a process meant to delay me but they won't be able find sufficient grounds to remove me of my position. However, my ability to oversee decisions made at the school will be temporarily suspended while the process is in effect. I suspect Tsozin has been working with his Father to implement a change of leadership within the school. I am placing a great deal of faith in you with what I am about to ask of you." Senzaemon stated seriously.
"What do you need me to do sir?" Yukihira asked hesitantly.
"Tsozin has the Polar Dormitory right where he wants it to be. His arrogance has made him extend his reach to such a level, that there is a flaw in his plans. You must challenge Tsozin to a shokugeki!" Senzaemon stated.
"A... Shokugeki sir? But I have nothing to benefit him, my expulsion is almost guaranteed. What else can I offer?" Yukihira replied.
"Tsozin will be unable to resist a shokugeki with the following terms. He severely underestimates you and your friends, so you will challenge him with the following." Senzaemon stated.
Yukihira's posture went from okay, to horrified. What Senzaemon proposed placed an incredible weight on his shoulders, and given Yukihira's current state; he had little assurance of being able to pull it off. After that exchange, Senzaemon placed his hand on Yukihira and left. Yukihira was stunned completely. He just became the center of the entire events surrounding Totsuki.
Nikumi looked back to see him staring blankly into the distance, and rushed over to comfort him.
"Yukihira! Is everything alright? What did you guys talk about?" Nikumi asked, concerned about the situation.
Yukihira didn't utter a word, but began to walk back to Polar Star. He was at a loss for words. Senzaemon Nakiri just laid the entire world on Yukihira, and was counting on him to beat impossible odds in a cooking match. Was he really this desperate, or mad? Why Yukihira? Why was this his best course of action?
Nikumi and Yukihira arrived back at Polar Star, and was greeted warmly by everyone. Ryō and Megumi were sitting next each other, looking better than ever as they beamed with a peaceful aura; a complete balance and harmony. Everyone quickly took note of Yukihira's condition, and started to raise concern for his well being. The entire first year gang was all there, with Satoshi and Ryōko. They all sat quietly and ate together, the meal Fumio made for all them.
Suddenly, a loud knock came at the door. The gang halted their meal time, puzzled at who could possibly be disturbing them at this hour. The knocking persisted, and Fumio was furious about their unexpected guests impatience. Fumio opened the door, and was instantly furious at who it was.
"Oh why now? Can't you leave us alone for just one day!" Takumi shouted, as Tsozin and his two goons forced themselves in.
"Eh... you should learn some respect for your senior's Mr. Aldini!" Tsozin said pompously.
"Why, I'll respect your face with my fist!" Ryōko shouted as she stood out of her seat quickly.
"Watch your attitude bimbo! Don't disrespect Tsozin like that you witch!" Hayami snapped.
"Enough! If you three have no business here at Polar Star, then I order you to leave!" Fumio said loudly, annoyed at the situation.
"Calm your tits old lady; we actually are here on business." Tsozin mocked.
"It appears Polar Star seems to be in a bit of a bind right now; and let me just cut to the chase. You guys are really up shits creek without a paddle. Now I, Tsozin Ikaharu, would hate to be looked at in my legacy as ruthless Elite Council Member. So I have a proposition for you losers." Tsozin boasted.
"Yeah, we don't believe you! You'll just cheat us out of victory anyways." Yūki huffed.
"Why you little tramp! Don't talk back to the merciful, generous Tsozin like that!" Hayami snapped again.
"Shut up! Your routine is getting old, you spaz." Alice quipped.
Hayami's frustration started to rise.
"Now now ladies, let's be civil and hear Tsozin out. It's your last chance to fight for your beloved dorm." Mitsuru said softly.
"No deal! You've cheated us three times now. No more you weasel!" Satoshi said angrily.
"I want to hear this." Yukihira said calmly, remembering what Senzaemon said.
"Oh? Is that right Yukihira Sōma? The hero of nobodies. Alright. Listen up! The Shokugeki is pursuing the investigation into Polar Star Dormitory very seriously, and now that Senzaemon is currently suspended from overseer duties on the Elite Council will surely decide to cut funding to Polar Star permanently." Tsozin stated.
"Why you! You can't do this!" Zenji shouted, adjusting his glasses.
"Tsk. Tsk. Tsk. Shut poor behavior for civilized chefs. Oh well, I guess that's why Polar Star is known as the dog house ahaha. Anyways, I'll give you one more chance. Well there's actually a couple options, you can decide on how it plays out. First rule of business. Megumi Tadokoro, you are facing expulsion pending a review that is almost concluded. I'll give you this one chance to accept a Shokugeki. You will face Hayami and Mitsuru in a shokugeki to determine your fate in this academy. Should you lose, Polar Star dormitory residents will be asked to leave." Tsozin announced.
"What!? Two against One, with that wager? Come on, you can bargain better than that huh? At least let Megumi have a partner. This is TWO Elite Council chef's vs. One first year. Seems pretty macho with those odds." Yukihira taunted.
"Yes. I guess it would be looked at, as a savage beat down. Okay, but whomever her partner is also faces the same fate she does. No exceptions. Except, they can't have any affiliation with the Elite Council, past or present! So don't try to pull favor from Erina, Satoshi, or Damian. They can't help you." Tsozin conceded.
"You still haven't told me what I get if I win!" Megumi said confidently.
"My, my, my. The clumsy and shy Megumi, finally found a back bone huh? Well obviously, the investigation and allegations against you will be rescinded and no one else in Polar Star will be challenged to a Shokugeki by a member of the Elite Council, unless agreed upon by said member. Is that fair?" Tsozin said condescendingly.
"Fine! I accept." Megumi said confidently.
"Wow. Not even a hesitation, this will be interesting. Who is the unfortunate soul to accompany you?" Tsozin mocked.
"I will!" Ryō shouted angrily as he stood up out of his chair.
"Oh hoh! The poor 'lap' dog has come to defend the clumsy Megumi! Come on Ryō, how could you get roped into this? Oh well. It's done! Mitsuru, Hayami, do you accept?" Tsozin said, still acting rudely.
"We accept!" They both exclaimed happily.
"Ah yes, tomorrow evening your shokugeki will be the first to be showcased! Your task will be to prepare a meal that combines two individual, separate distinct meals, and combine them into one all-encompassing dish!" Tsozin explained.
"Wait... you mentioned that it was the first to be showcased; you have another in mind for tomorrow night?" Erina pointed out, alarmed at what the second implication might be.
"A very keen observation miss Erina Nakiri! You must have the 'God's Ear' too! Hahaha! Ahem... Correct, tomorrow evening is going to be a grand spectacle! A double header, a shokugeki showdown! The main event will be a real whammy." Tsozin peered over at Yukihira with a sinister gaze.
"Ahh yes. The grand opus. The pinnacle of a poor diner chef's last ride! What better exit than to be defeated in front of a grand stage! Oh, but what does poor Yukihira have to offer me?" Tsozin bragged.
"What do you want!? Whatever it is, there's no deal!" Nikumi stood up and shouted with contempt.
"You should button up your shirt Miss Mito, or perhaps you could ditch that loser and check out my special A-5 quality meat!" Tsozin said vulgarly.
Nikumi's face turned fiery red as she clenched her teeth ready to curse Tsozin with an unholy amount of rage. Yukihira instantly stood up next to her and placed his hand on her shoulder. Yukihira looked down with a serious expression and clinched his fist.
"Tsozin Ikaharu, this has been your plan all along. You've cheated and manipulated all that has happened to reach this point. I don't want to disappoint you. I wager my residency here at Totsuki, and if you win I shall not only resign but renounce my family's diner and never set foot in a kitchen again!" Yukihira stated boldly.
"...Aha! Hahaha! You think that I am going to relish in that? Tempting offer, but sadly your humiliation isn't enough for my plans. If that's all you got, i'm afraid our spectators will be disappointed in having only one shokugeki match tomorrow. Such a pity. You know what I want Yukihira Sōma." Tsozin stated, getting more serious.
"Fine. Then I guess I have no choice. Either way, at some point a chef has to risk it all. It's bold, but I will find a way to defeat you." Yukihira was speaking will real confidence, he knew that he had to trust in Senzaemon's judgement. Yukihira was unsure of what was coming next, but he knew none of this would be over unless he stood up to Tsozin right here and now.
"If more is what you want, then I'll give an offer you can't refuse! If I win tomorrow's shokugeki, then you, nor Hayami or Mitsuru, can ever challenge another student to a shokugeki match! Of course such a steep price on your end, isn't without something on my end. If I lose, I will accept my expulsion and will never set foot in a kitchen again. As well, Senzaemon Nakiri will permanently step down as Director of Totsuki Academy never to have any affiliation with the organization again!" Yukihira bellowed.
Everyone in the entire room was thrown back by this sudden outburst. Every jaw was on the floor, and nobody expected this coming. Even Tsozin was surprised by this development and his insides started to become conflicted. This offer was in fact, too irresistible; but the price for losing was almost too much to accept. He knew Yukihira wasn't able to cook at the moment, but to wager Senzaemon Nakiri's position in such a state. Tsozin was no fool. He sensed an ulterior motive, but his pride and greed were quickly taking over. Being personally responsible for the removal of the great Senzaemon Nakiri would surely solidify his family's status and position within the bureau and yakuza. Tsozin gritted his teeth, and knew that he couldn't openly deny this offer.
"My, my, my Yukihira. I didn't know you had it in you. This makes things very, very interesting. I accept this wager!" Tsozin said cautiously.
"What are the conditions of the shokugeki?" Yukihira asked, feeling insurmountable pressure.
"What fitting display of culinary skill should be showcased for a spectacle like this? My, oh my. The story, the media! How can we hold a match to display such a battle! For an occasion like this, it has to be grand! It has to be epic! It must be glorious!" Tsozin spoke out loud, flamboyantly exaggerating his gestures.
"I have just the match in mind. The lowly diner chef, facing his greatest battle. A shokugeki of magnanimous proportions! Yukihira has shown a display of great skills! His flexibility and unorthodox dishes have given hope to those who have none! He is a symbol of determination amongst his first years, and the lowly simple diner chef stands to lose them all much." Tsozin rambled on with a wide sinister smile.
"What challenge would be befitting such an occasion you ask? A shokugeki that will determine true skill, and mastery of all things culinary. A homage to the legendary battle's of Totsuki's glory days. Our battle will be decided over a dish that requires precision, preparation, timing, taste, presentation, and flexibility. This shokugeki will require everything from a chef! The challenge will be to create a dish with no less than ten different ingredients! The dish must also not be customary to any region in Japan! Yukihira Sōma, you may be skilled in the arts of Japanese cuisine; but how well do you know the extensive culture of a foreign variety? I will expect your best tomorrow Yukihira; don't disappoint. Ahahaha!" Tsozin laughed maniacally.
Tsozin and his two henchmen left the dormitory while the rest of the room was absolutely beside themselves. First, the fate of Polar Star was in Megumi and Ryōs hands. If they fail, Polar Star was done for! Second, Yukihira wagered Senzaemon Nakiri's position at Totsuki! Thirdly, Yukihira was given an extremely difficult challenge to not only create a dish that wasn't native to Japan; but also utilized more than ten ingredients! To top it all off, no one was sure if Yukihira could pull it off given his condition and Tsozin's underhanded tactics!
This was bad. Everyone knew that things at Totsuki were finally hitting the peak of craziness. The students in the kitchen were speechless. What could they say now? What's done, was done. There was no going back from this. The fate of everything they knew was hanging in the balance. They looked around trying to bring themselves back into reality. Erina, no longer able to handle the unsettling news, stood up and stared right at yukihira.
"Yukihira you idiot! Did you even think there are other ways to deal with this! And you dare put my Grandfather into all this!" Erina shouted, losing her refined composure.
Yukihira had a half hearted smile. He felt his old self returning and tried to be casual in his response.
"Erina, your Grandfather asked me to do it! He said this was the only way to restore things at Totsuki. I was just doing what I was told." Yukihira grinned with a half smile.
Erina's face drooped, her mind bewildered at his composure at a time like this.
"How can you be so calm! Earlier you were telling me how you lost the ability to cook, and now you're betting everything in a match where not even incredible skill can win?" Erina exclaimed, trying to be reasonable.
"Sometimes a chef has to overcome insane situations to verify his worth. Master Senzaemon helped me realize something, and I believe I will be able to cook once more!" Yukihira said proudly as he clenched his fist.
"Yukihira! Even if you are able to cook like you say, Tsozin will still have the judges on his side! They will be against you the entire match!" Takumi pointed out.
"Yeah, and it's not just about Yukihira too. Megumi and Ryō are competing for the fate of Polar Star!" Yūki protested.
Yukihira saw everyone's concern, and realized they were losing hope. After all he's been through since the Autumn Elections, hopelessness he knew. Yukihira centered himself in the room and slammed his hands down on the table.
"We've all heard Fumio express tales of the 'Golden Era of Polar Star.' Now, that honored history is being challenged. Who are we to dishonor their proud legacy by bowing down to Tsozin and his kind? What would the chef's of Polar Star done in those days? Yes we may be putting everything in the line; and perhaps we aren't the chef's required to handle such a task. Still, we are here and it's time we work together; all of us. Before I came to Totsuki, there was an arrogant real estate lady wanted to tear down my father's restaurant. The same restaurant i've worked my whole life in, and I asked her for one dish to serve. If I could convince her we were worth staying, she'd give up her plans."
"The next day I walked into the restaurant and it was trashed. Every ingredient was thrown on the floor and wasted. She thought she had sabotaged my chances, but I didn't give up. My father wasn't there to bail me out either. The fate of the restaurant was in my hands. With a small bag of groceries I served up the best dish I could make, and despite her earnest attempts at denying the truth. She caved, realizing that she was wrong. Yes, the chef's may be stacked against us; but our food will dispel any bias they may have and they will know we are worthy students! The whole world will be reminded of Polar Star, and they will see it's great history realized once again!" Yukihira exclaimed proudly as he removed the sash from his wrist and held it out with pride.
The rest of the room took a minute to absorb Yukihira's words. Almost instantly, they all realized that what Yukihira had said was true. It was their time, and they knew that together they could overcome the odds. It wasn't going to be easy, but it was just another hurdle in their paths to becoming the chef's they all desired.
"I am with you Yukihira!" Nikumi said proudly as she stood next him, feeling much more confident.
The rest of the group stood up in unison and nodded in agreement. Whatever had changed recently, had finally been restored to them. It was as if they were wandering down a dark hallway, and just now seen the light.
Zenji's mind was complete mush. He hadn't stood up yet, because the whole situation was just unreal. First everything looked hopeless, and now everyone was just normal. Unable to comprehend the situation any longer he adjusted his glasses and stood up. This may have all been a convoluted plot, but this is how things always go at Totsuki.
"Now then, let's all work together and prepare ourselves for this shokugeki!" Yukihira exclaimed, with the rest of the room nodding in approval.
"Yukihira, can I speak with a moment?" Nikumi asked softly.
"Sure! What's up?" Yukihira answered as he followed her into a hallway where they were alone.
"You seem different all of sudden. Everything okay?" Nikumi asked sympathetically.
"Oh... yeah I'm feeling pumped!" Yukihira stated confidently.
"That's good. You know if you need anything, I'm always here for you." Nikumi replied, feeling relieved it wasn't just an act.
"Well... now that you mention it. I have two favors to ask, and I promise I'll make it up to you." Yukihira said with an embarrassed look.
"Anything!" Nikumi answered immediately, feeling warm at the thought of Yukihira needing her.
"Can you get me some more of your grade A-5 Beef? I could use every advantage I can get." Yukihira asked.
"Oh... yeah I'll make sure of it! Though I'll have to run back to my dorm and call my father to have one shipped instantly overnight." Nikumi said sadly, knowing she'll have to step away from Yukihira for the night.
"You're the best Nikumi! I owe you such a huge debt!" Yukihira exclaimed happily, as he bowed furiously over and over again. Although the beef was definitely going to help him, Yukihira's true purpose to make sure Nikumi wasn't going to be around to see what he was planning to prepare. He knew just the dish to make, but he needed the other's expertise to show him method's he'd needed to know to create his new special dish. For Yukihira, he would never consider a favor for Nikumi a debt. Whatever he could give her was not enough to repay her for how she made him feel. That powerful warmth he got just thinking about her, touching her, and fantasizing about her, fused in his blood to feel invincible. He didn't see it before, but that feeling he had when he thought about her, it was worth everything he had. If he was going to win tomorrow, it was undoubtedly because of her.
"Yukihira! It's fine." Nikumi blushed.
"You mentioned something else you needed as well?" Nikumi stated, trying to change the subject before she became too embarrassed.
"I want to you stand by my kitchen during my match tomorrow!" Yukihira said without skipping a beat.
Nikumi felt red with shyness, and almost wanted to ask why. She looked at Yukihira's expression, and saw the seriousness in his face. Quickly, she realized what this meant to him and just nodded.
"Of course." She said softly, smiling to herself as she walked off heading back to her dorm.
Yukihira saw her walking away, and his heart hardened with confidence. He clenched his fist tightly and knew that the inner strength he felt was because of her. This night of preparation meant that not a single second could be wasted, this dish had to be perfect.
The rest of the night all the entire room was collaborating diligently together. Akira was helping Megumi and Yukihira with spice pairings, while Yūki was giving Ryō some tips for working with duck. Alice and Zenji were acquiring books and references on gastronomy to help them understand the science behind their recipes and what substitutes could be made for certain ingredients. Ryōko and Takumi were also giving pointers and lending a hand with food preparation techniques. When it came to prep work, very few were faster or more precise than Takumi. Erina had left shortly after Nikumi stating she had to "take care of a few things," but assured everyone she would be there tomorrow to support her classmates. As a former member of the Elite Ten, Satoshi was helping the younger classmates identify the best vegetables to use in their dishes. The night was winding down, and everyone was starting to feel a little bit better about their chances. After a quick cleanup they all headed their separate ways to bed. Tomorrow would be the ultimate challenge.
The day was winding down as the entire school flooded into the arena. Tsozin had made sure to spread the word of this match far and wide. Every chef in the culinary world was poised to watch this shokugeki, and see the fate of Senzaemon Nakiri. The students were given the day off, so they all blitzed social media with news of the match. All around the world, everyone who an insider to the culinary world was watching in someway. Some restaurants were closed down to watch the match, and others sought profit by hosting bets on the winners. This was such a huge spectacle that the match became the top trend on twitter!
Inside the arena, the announcer was preparing to welcome everyone as the camera and film crews were finalizing their positions.
"Ladies and Gentleman, students and distinguished chef's! Totsuki Academy would like to extend it's appreciation and gratitude for your time, and welcome you to the Super Shokugeki Showdown! Tonight will be two main events that pit three students versus three of the school's very own Elite Ten! The stakes are riding high tonight, and the outcome could change the very dynamic of this school!" The announcer began, hyping the crowd up for a spectacle.
"Tonights matches have been approved by the Shokugeki Administration Bureau, and the Totsuki Elite Ten Council. Let's jump right in to tonight's events with our first match: First years - Megumi Tadokoro and Ryō Kurokiba will challenge Elite Ten members- No. Seven Hayami Yamamoto and No. Six Mitsuru Kobayashi!"
The crowd roared with applause, as they were excited to see the outcome of this match.
"Tonight's first match will be a team contest focusing on two separate entreés becoming one. The student teams must create two individual main course meals, that combine into a super meal! The results of this match will determine the fate of the Polar Star Dormitory and it's future in Totsuki." The announcer continued.
The entire audience gasped in suspense. Very few people were allowed to know the details of the shokugeki, other than the fact that Senzaemon Nakiri would be involved directly with the results of the match.
"For this match, the winning team will be decided by a panel of three judges. Let's honor our famous guest judges for giving their time to be here! Our first judge: Totsuki Alumnus and former Elite Ten No. 1 from the 69th generation - Gin Dōjima! Our second guest judge, known as one of the harshest food critics in all of Japan - Aioko Kasumoto! Our last judge: Former Totsuki Alumnus and the only Japanese Chef to win the french Pluspol award - Kojirō Shinomiya!"
My oh my, things are finally here. The final chapter is incoming. There's a few meta commentary quips in here, because even I can be critical of my own work. However, the ending is next. I've waited a long time to write this ending, and I literally had to build an entire story around it. I really am thankful for all the readers, and hope you find it satisfying. Two shokugeki in one chapter, and a conclusion next. I have a couple spin off ideas, and I can't wait to receive the feedback on this story so I know what direction to take the second story I have for this! Leave your comments and questions, I'll P.M all of them!