The training ground buzzed with excitement as the recruits recovered from the One-Bite Enhancement Test. Some were still trembling from the surge of energy, while others sat in quiet contemplation, feeling the lingering effects of the broth.
Zhang Ye surveyed them with satisfaction. This was just the beginning. If they wanted to become elite combat chefs, they needed to fully understand the essence of culinary cultivation.
Elira approached, her sharp eyes scanning the recruits. "The energy from the broth was overwhelming for most of them. If they can't control it, it could harm them instead of helping."
Zhang Ye nodded. "That's why the next step is about control. Strength means nothing if you can't wield it properly."
Kai stretched, cracking his knuckles. "So, what's next? We just keep feeding them powerful food until they figure it out?"
Linna smirked. "That sounds like your kind of training."
Zhang Ye raised a hand, silencing the banter. "From this point on, we establish the Pillar of Culinary Might—the foundation upon which all combat chefs will be built."
The recruits straightened up at his words. They could tell this was something important.
Zhang Ye continued, "The Pillar of Culinary Might consists of four essential disciplines. Each of you will specialize in one, but you must also have a basic understanding of all."
He motioned toward the large stone slab in the center of the training grounds. With a flick of his wrist, ancient characters engraved themselves into the rock, each glowing with a golden light.
The Four Disciplines of Culinary Combat:
1. Battle Cuisine – The art of cooking under combat conditions, enhancing one's strength mid-battle.
2. Alchemy Cooking – The refinement of rare ingredients into powerful elixirs, dishes, and enhancements.
3. Weaponized Cooking – The creation of food-based weapons, such as explosive dumplings, fire-infused skewers, and defensive food barriers.
4. Gastronomic Healing – The development of restorative meals that heal injuries, cure poisons, and even enhance one's cultivation.
The recruits stared at the slab in awe. This was more than just cooking—this was a way to revolutionize the battlefield.
Zhang Ye turned to face them. "Your training will now be divided based on these four disciplines. Choose wisely, for your path will shape the future of the Divine Academy."
One by one, the recruits stepped forward, placing their hands on the stone to signify their choice.
Kai smirked. "I think you already know which one I'm choosing." He slammed his palm onto the Battle Cuisine inscription.
Linna followed, touching Weaponized Cooking. "I like the idea of turning food into a weapon."
Elira placed her hand on Alchemy Cooking, her eyes shining with curiosity. "The secrets hidden within ingredients are limitless."
The rest of the recruits followed suit, each selecting their path. Some hesitated, but Zhang Ye reassured them. "You are not locked into one path forever. True mastery comes from understanding them all."
As the last recruit made their choice, the inscriptions pulsed with energy. The Divine Academy was no longer just a concept—it was becoming a reality.
Zhang Ye crossed his arms, looking at his students. "From this moment forward, you are no longer ordinary chefs. You are the Pioneers of Culinary Might."
The recruits let out a unified roar of determination.
The Divine Academy had officially begun its rise.