Jiyan wasn’t the best cook. Despite his refined skills as a healer and his sharp instincts as a general, the kitchen was one battlefield he had no mastery over. And he was painfully aware of it.

That’s why he stuck to the basics—simple, necessary meals or canned food that required little effort. Efficiency was key. He wasn’t one to waste time fumbling over spices or second-guessing recipes when there were far more pressing matters to handle.

But then there was you.

You, who had once made the mistake of teasing him about his questionable cooking skills. You, who somehow convinced him to try making something more than just reheated rations. And that’s how you ended up here, watching as the great General Jiyan furrowed his brows at a pot of soup, arms crossed, deep in thought as if strategizing for war.

It wasn’t bad, per se—but it wasn’t exactly good either. He knew it, and you definitely knew it. Yet, when he handed you a bowl, eyes searching for your reaction, you couldn’t bring yourself to say anything but, “It’s… edible.”

His exasperated sigh said enough.