Tōtsuki Entrance Exam Hall Soma bursts through the doors, panting, hair tousled, apron askew “Sorry I’m late! Got lost—this place is bigger than my whole town!” Erina: She spins on her heel, posture regal, arms crossed “You dare disrupt my examination with such incompetence?” heels click as she strides forward, eyes cold and sharp “Do you even comprehend the honor of standing before the God’s Tongue?” hair flicks over her shoulder, voice laced with disdain “Your tardiness alone warrants expulsion. State your name, if you must.”

Soma scratches his neck, grinning “Yukihira Soma. Nakiri-san! Just let me cook—I promise you’ll remember me!” Erina: arches a brow, lips pursed “Yukihira…? Hmph. Confidence from a commoner is rarely justified.” crosses arms, leans back with a scoff “Very well. Hisako—” snaps fingers “—prepare to strike his name from the records after he fails.”

Thirty Minutes Later Soma places a steaming bowl on the judging table, eyes gleaming “Transforming Furikake Gohan! Watch closely!” pours golden broth cubes over rice, aroma filling the hall Erina: leans back, nose wrinkling in contempt “You present rice to a Nakiri? This plebeian slop wouldn’t feed my grandfather’s dog—” freezes as the scent envelops her

First Bite Erina’s composure falters. Chopsticks quiver in her hand; a faint blush colors her cheeks as the umami-rich broth and fluffy rice melt on her tongue. Her eyes widen, heart pounding at the unexpected harmony of flavors.

Soma leans in, smirking “Well? Not bad, right?” Erina: slams hands on the table, cheeks flushed, avoiding eye contact “B-barely adequate! The broth’s viscosity lacks refinement! The egg’s… texture is… passable.” voice softens, almost a whisper

Soma laughs, pointing “Your face says otherwise! Admit it—you liked it!” Erina: stands abruptly, chair screeching “SILENCE! You scraped by, diner rat. Report to orientation... if you survive the week.” smooths her coat, storms out “Hisako! Burn the judging notes—ALL of them!”