Chef in the Apocalypse

Chapter 67: Stone Hammer

Amidst the charged atmosphere, Colin stepped boldly to the forefront of the group, his arms crossed in a stance of defiance. His gaze locked onto the group of swordsmen, and he questioned in a steady tone, “What is the meaning of this?”

A figure in full gleaming armor, his bald head the only exposed feature, advanced from the ranks of the swordsmen. Sunlight reflected off the armor, making it challenging to discern his exact facial features due to the angle of the light. As the distance between them diminished, it became apparent that the figure was a man of darker complexion, with a few inches less in height than Colin. His powerful build, manifested through broad shoulders, was comparable to Colin’s own, and his stern countenance exuded a sense of gravity that matched his physical presence.

With a voice that held an unexpected melodic quality, the armored man spoke, his question laced with an air of politeness. “Where is Let me Cook?” The combination of his voice and attire gave him an almost holy knight-like aura.

However, Colin was undeterred by this imposing figure. Without mincing words, he bypassed the inquiry, addressing the situation head-on. “Wow, this is quite the welcoming committee you’ve organized. How about you order your people to lower their weapons and greet us like civilized human beings?”

A visible frown marred the armored man’s features, his dissatisfaction palpable at being disregarded. Raising his hand with a firm motion, he elicited a synchronized response from the swordsmen who drew their weapons, while the archers pulled back their bows with equal resolve.

Despite the tension and threat in the air, the armored man repeated his demand, his tone edged with an underlying seriousness. “I won’t ask again: where is Let me Cook?”

Instead of cowering, Colin threw his head back and laughed heartily, sending an echo throughout the clearing. The ones across from him threw tentative glances at their leader in the full suit of armor, awaiting instructions.

“Tell your men to stand down.” A voice whispered into his ear, accompanied by a sharp feeling against his throat. The dark man was stunned for a moment, not registering what had happened. His lack of compliance caused the sharp object to draw blood, sending a warm droplet from his Adam’s apple to his chest.

His hand moved in the air, “Hold Fire!” The men did as they were told, even if the matter made no sense to them. Yet everything was soon made clear.

A person dressed in a chef’s outfit suddenly materialized behind their leader, wielding a horrifying dagger which was held up to his neck. The swordsmen who were the closest almost jumped in fright, seeing this man appear out of nowhere. However, without their leader’s orders, they did not make a move.

“You are Stone Hammer?” Jayce asked. Although he was aware of Stone Hammer from his previous life, he had never met him in person. All he knew was that he was the only Paladin on the Asian continent and one of the founders of the Bastion stronghold.

“Yes, but please call me Dion. I assume you are Let me Cook?” He replied in an even tone, despite his current situation.

“You can call me Jayce.” Withdrawing his dagger he stepped back, allowing Dion to turn around and face him.

Adorned in a suit of armor that shone with a brilliant luster, Dion seemed like a knight of old, his figure evoking a sense of chivalry and honor. The armor’s craftsmanship spoke of exceptional quality, emphasizing his strong physique while also granting him an air of invincibility. His broad shoulders and muscular build further emphasized his strength and resilience, making it clear that he was a force to be reckoned with in any conflict.

Dion’s expression was usually stern and unwavering, reflecting a seriousness that matched the weight of his position. His eyes, deep and enigmatic, held a gaze that was both piercing and discerning, as if they could read the intentions of those around him.

His voice, surprisingly melodious despite his imposing appearance, carried an air of authority that resonated with those who heard it. The cadence of his speech exuded a sense of command and control, adding to his image as a leader.

Jayce inwardly nodded, he could see why Dion could successfully govern one of the largest cities during the Apocalypse. An uncomfortable silence drifted on between the two, which was filtered down to their troops causing the atmosphere to become tense.

Dion’s eyes softened, letting out an exasperated sigh before holding his hand out “Your reputation precedes you Jayce.”

Jayce groaned inwardly, ’I hope he doesn’t hold a grudge about the World Quest.’ he thought. Pushing those thoughts to the back of his mind, he held out his own hand and grasped it in a handshake.

He suddenly felt a crushing pressure being put on his hand, causing him to flinch momentarily. He looked up at Dion questioningly, as to ask what the hell he was doing. Not seeing a change in expression, Jayce’s blue eyes turned dark.

’A test of strength hey?’ he chuckled inwardly. Unluckily for this man, Jayce was least afraid about strength. Including his stat boosts, he had over 60 points in strength, not to mention the fact he was still holding his Bloodfang Dagger which boosted it another 20.

With a condescending look, Jayce increased the strength in his hand gradually, keeping his eyes on Dion’s face. After a few moments, Dion’s face began to falter, his calm and composed demeanor slipping away each second.

After hearing a few cracks, he almost let out a yelp of pain. Clearing his throat, he extricated his hand and nodded, “Well met.”

Jayce chuckled, happy to win the exchange. “So, are we going to stand around here all day? My friends and I have been stuck in the forest for over a week.”

“Ahem. No, of course not. Please follow us up to the city.” Turning on the spot, he walked back towards his swordsman and gestured for them to return.

Jayce turned, only to see Colin winking and giving him a thumbs up. He also saw Jackie and Lianna close by, giving them a nod. Jackie responded with a smile and wave, however Lianna seemed to look a little distracted. In the next moment she glared at him with a look full of resolution, causing a shiver to run down his spine.

’Huh?’

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