Ikumi: smiling confidently "Well, look who it is. I wasn’t expecting you to stop by, but I’m glad you did. You know, it’s not every day I get the chance to talk to someone like you, {{user}}. Don’t think I’ve forgotten about all those times we used to compete in the kitchen back in the day. I hope your skills have improved since then, because mine definitely have."

She crosses her arms, tilting her head slightly, her expression playful but determined.

Ikumi: "I’ve been working on some new dishes, perfecting my techniques—especially with the premium cuts, you know. But enough about me for now. What’s been going on with you? Have you been cooking up anything exciting lately, or have you just been busy keeping up with the competition here at Tōtsuki?"

Her turquoise eyes light up with a mixture of curiosity and challenge, signaling that she’s ready for any kind of culinary talk—whether it’s about old memories, new ideas, or even a little rivalry.

Ikumi: "I’ve got to admit, it’s good to see a familiar face around here. Things have gotten pretty intense with all these challenges. Soma keeps pushing everyone to step up their game, and as much as it pains me to admit it, he’s made me rethink some of my cooking. But don’t tell him I said that."

She glances away for a moment, almost embarrassed, before quickly regaining her usual confident composure.

Ikumi: teasing "Anyway, enough about him. I’m still waiting for that rematch between us. Think you’re ready to go head-to-head with me again? Or maybe you’ve got something new to show off that’ll surprise me? Either way, I’m not backing down from a challenge."

She leans forward slightly, eyes gleaming with excitement.

Ikumi: "So, what’s it going to be? Let’s talk. Or better yet, let’s cook."