In Academy City, the Paradise Project begins.

Page 153

An hour later, the girls returned one after another with their respective "spoils of war".

Higashino finally returned with the two exhausted girls.

Before returning, when Higashino brought Kuroko to see Kofune Miwa, he scared her quite a bit.

She wasn't wearing a swimsuit at the time, and she exposed herself completely to her junior, revealing all the red marks. It made her feel like the sky had fallen.

However, when she noticed Kuroko's condition and learned from Higashino that Kuroko was also an accomplice, she breathed a sigh of relief but couldn't help complaining that Higashino was such a scumbag.

The same goes for the trolls; especially the look in Kofumi Miwa's eyes that seemed to say, "Troll, you're a 'snake in the covetousness' too," made her toes practically dig out of their sockets.

On the contrary, Higashino, the instigator, was completely unaware of his actions. He cleaned up the two girls and then used his ability to remove the strawberry marks before returning to the meeting point.

"Wow! Wan Nei actually found such amazing matsutake mushrooms! Pao Fu's apple curry sauce looks so special too! It's a type I've never seen before in the market!"

Saten Ruiko excitedly counted the ingredients, her eyes sparkling. The variety of ingredients meant that their lunch for today was settled, and it would be quite plentiful.

"Hmph, this is a top-grade yellow chicken that I got from a private room deep in the woods!"

After the wedding, Mitsuko proudly raised her chin, showing off the prepared chicken in her hand.

This chicken looks to weigh five or six pounds, which is more than enough for several of them to eat.

"Senior... why is this in the treasure chest?"

Chu Chun blushed and asked the question in a low voice. She was holding a suspicious rectangular box in her hand, which was obviously a "surprise" from some treasure chest.

"puff--"

Hei Zi had just taken a sip of water and almost spat it out.

"Why Durex?! You perverted doctor, your taste is truly...unique!"

She glanced sideways at Dongye, who was helping to start a fire, speechless, completely unable to understand why he would let such a thing appear in the treasure chest.

This guy doesn't use that at all when he does things, and he says things like "There won't be any problems, my ability can guarantee that you won't become a mother so early," which drives her crazy. Then he offers her imported milk without hesitation.

Kofumi couldn't help but smile, her head down as she processed the vegetables that Wannai Kinuho handed her, but a barely perceptible blush quickly crossed her face as the passionate scene from before flashed through her mind.

She had a rough idea of ​​what Kuroko was thinking. Higashino, taking advantage of his abilities, really didn't like using those kinds of things. She knew this all too well, having tasted them herself.

She and Kuroko, who was also slightly pausing beside her, quickly exchanged a knowing glance, and then both continued with their work as if nothing had happened.

What happened between Higashino and the two of them before was a secret shared by the three of them, which led them to tacitly choose to keep a low profile at this moment.

At least for now, they don't want to be exposed like this. However, if Higashino were to take the initiative to confess and say that they were his fourth and fifth girlfriends, they wouldn't mind, but this wicked guy doesn't seem to have that idea.

Higashino wasn't actually unwilling to give her the status of a girlfriend; that kind of thing was irrelevant to him. If the two of them took the initiative to ask, he certainly wouldn't refuse.

But since they're too embarrassed to ask, Higashino won't push them any further. Wouldn't it be more interesting to let them feel like they're secretly having an affair, experiencing that sense of transgression, and displaying an expression of resistance mixed with a reluctance to refuse?

Anyway, even if Mikoto and the others find out, they'll just look down on him at most, and he, being thick-skinned, won't care at all.

While adding firewood to the campfire, Higashino shrugged and answered Kuroko's question with a helpless smile.

"Treasure hunting is only fun when it's full of unknowns. Who knows which treasure chest might open to reveal a much-needed 'strategic resource' instead of food? Like the Musashino milk that Kofu found, that's top-tier supplies!"

He cleverly changed the subject. Anyway, he didn't know what would come out of the treasure chest; it was truly random. However, the time with Kofumi was one where he deliberately cheated, so it didn't count.

Gu Famei's face turned even redder, and she gave a soft "hmm" before focusing her attention on cutting the potatoes.

She hugged Higashino because she was so excited about opening the milk, and that's when what happened next occurred.

Looking back now, she realizes she was too excited at the time. But if she has any regrets... well, not really. She had always thought about taking the relationship to the next level, but she just didn't have the courage.

"Senior... even if it's random, you could at least control the range a little."

Tears were speechless. When she and Haruhi first teamed up, they actually pulled off something even more amazing.

Chu Chun didn't know what that round, big, electric device with a massage function was, but she saw it in a video by chance and instantly remembered what it was.

Before asking any more questions in early spring, Ruiko threw the things into the sea without hesitation.

The girls quickly got to work according to their assigned tasks, and the small camp was soon filled with the sounds of pots and pans clattering and enticing aromas.

Pao Fu and Wan Nei were in charge of making the curry. The two worked together seamlessly and were very skilled.

Pao Fu carefully poured the apple curry sauce into the pot and mixed it with the matsutake mushrooms and other ingredients, while Wan Nei Juan Bao precisely controlled the evaporation rate of the water in the pot using a "water flow operation" technique, ensuring the curry had the perfect consistency. They occasionally exchanged hushed conversations, their eyes gentle and focused.

Ruiko and Haruhi were in charge of grilling the fish. At that moment, Ruiko was trying her best to persuade Haruhi: "Salty and spicy flavors definitely go better with grilled fish! Senpai is a boy, how could he possibly like sweet flavors!"

Chu Chun shook her head firmly, her little face full of seriousness: "But, but, Senior Higashino said last time that he also likes the slightly sweet taste of teriyaki sauce... and adding a little honey will make the fish more tender!"

The two argued over which sauce to use, and in the end, Leizi "accidentally" sprinkled too much chili powder, causing a small commotion and Chuchun's exclamation.

Mikoto and Kuroko are in charge of making omelet rice.

Mikoto was carefully stirring the golden egg mixture, trying to shape it into a perfect semi-circle to cover the fried rice. Kuroko was "helping" from the side.

It was less of a help and more of a disruption.

"Big sister~ the egg mixture will be even smoother if you add a little more milk~" "Big sister! Let me use my powers to help you flip the pan, I guarantee every grain will be separate!" "Ah! Big sister, your apron strap is loose!"

As she spoke, she tried to use teleportation to move the seasoning bottle to Mikoto's side, but she almost put the salt shaker right in Mikoto's nose, earning her an embarrassed and angry electric shock and a scolding from Mikoto: "Idiot Kuroko, get out of my way!"

Kuroko absorbed too much of Higashino's energy just now, and all she wants to do now is collect more of her older sister's scent from her to suppress the strange feeling Higashino brought her.

Finally, Gu Fa Meiwei and Hunhou Guangzi teamed up to make braised chicken.

Kofumi skillfully prepared the side dishes, while Mitsuko, after marriage, had her own insistence on seasoning.

"Gu Fa, I think we should add more sugar! Sweet braised chicken is more sophisticated, and Higashino will definitely like it!"

Mitsuko confidently prepared to pour the sugar jar into the pot. Kofumi quickly stopped her: "Mitsuko! Higashino just clearly stated... he doesn't like sweet braised chicken; he thinks that stewing it with green peppers and potatoes until it's savory, tender, and soft is the best way..."

Mitsuko was somewhat disappointed, but under the confirming gazes of Kofumi and Higashino, she reluctantly put down the sugar jar and instead grabbed the green peppers and potatoes: "Hmph, then let's do it according to Higashino-kun's preferences! But my plating must be the most gorgeous!"

Seeing that both Ruiko and Kofu had gotten the flavors back on track, Higashino secretly breathed a sigh of relief. Although he wasn't picky about taste, he still preferred spicy dishes like braised chicken and grilled fish.

As for Higashino, who was left alone, he moved between the four groups, helping them out or giving them guidance.

Finally, amidst the hustle and bustle and the flurry of activity, the four dishes were completed one after another, and their fragrant aromas were displayed on the open space covered with tablecloths.

The dish features a rich and fragrant matsutake and apple curry rice, grilled fish with a slightly charred appearance and a mixed savory sauce, golden omelet rice wrapped around fried rice, and braised chicken that is tender and flavorful despite not having added sugar, garnished with green and red peppers and potato chunks.

"Okay! So, what's next..."

Saten Ruiko, hands on her hips, excitedly announced.

"Our only male judge, Senior Higashino, will taste and judge! Which team is today's cooking champion? The winning team can make a request to Senior Higashino!"

Instantly, eight pairs of eyes focused on Higashino, filled with anticipation, nervousness, and confidence...

There is also a subtle, almost imperceptible "threat".

Nobody wants to lose, and when girls get competitive, they can be just as fierce as boys.

Higashino's smile froze for a moment. He felt an invisible pressure in the air suddenly increase, as if it were even more unsettling than when he was facing Kronzun.

He cleared his throat, walked over to the food, and picked up the utensils that everyone had taken from the treasure chest.

He started with the grilled fish, where the debate was most heated. He carefully picked up a piece of fish mixed with teardrop chili powder and early spring teriyaki sauce, and put it in his mouth.

Haru and Ruiko stared at him nervously. After a moment of reflection, he nodded: "Hmm... a very creative fusion. You can taste Ruiko's passion and Haru's meticulousness. The pungent aftertaste of the chili is neutralized by the teriyaki's subtle sweetness, creating an unexpected harmony. Not bad."

But I still want to eat spicier grilled fish.

Next up was the omelet rice. He cut open the omelet to reveal the fried rice inside, which had been "helped" by Kuroko to overcook.

After taking a bite, she commented, "The egg crepe is cooked perfectly, Mikoto. The fried rice... well, it has a great texture and the flavor is authentic, simple and straightforward. Kuroko... next time you help, remember to control your strength."

Kuroko pouted, while Mikoto snorted, seemingly quite satisfied with the assessment.

Then came the braised chicken. He picked up a piece of chicken and savored the savory broth and soft, tender potatoes.

"The broth is rich and flavorful, the chicken is well-seasoned, and the potatoes and green peppers are cooked to perfection. Gu Fa's preparation is very precise, and Guang Zi's addition of green peppers and potatoes at the end is the finishing touch. It's excellent without any sugar."

Kofumi breathed a sigh of relief, a hint of joy at being affirmed appearing on her face. Mitsuko, on the other hand, proudly raised her chin.

Finally, there was the curry rice. The rich curry sauce coated the matsutake mushrooms and rice, with a hint of apple sweetness.

Higashino took a bite, a hint of appreciation flashing in his eyes: "The fresh aroma of the matsutake mushroom is fully released, and the slight sourness and sweetness of the apple make the curry more layered, with a smooth and rich taste. Wan Bin's sauce preparation and Juan Bao's moisture control are perfect, a powerful combination."

After the four groups finished tasting, Higashino Yu put down his cutlery and looked around. The girls held their breath, awaiting his final decision.

Higashino took a deep breath, and a sincere smile appeared on his face.

"Well..."

He deliberately dragged out his words, looking at the expectant faces.

"It's too cruel to ask me to choose the 'best' one!"

He paused, and amidst the girls' gazes, some disgruntled, others puzzled, he raised his voice and announced firmly:

"So—I declare! Tonight's 'Treasure Hunt Picnic Cooking Competition' is a complete victory for everyone! Each group's dish was unique, infused with everyone's heart and effort, and perfectly reflected the maker's characteristics! The rich and mellow curry, the creative collision of grilled fish, the classic purity of omelet rice, the savory and tender braised chicken... Without any one of these dishes, tonight's feast would have been incomplete! You are all champions!"

Hmph! How could such a chaotic situation happen to me? As long as I'm bad enough and want it all, I won't have any trouble choosing!

"Eh--?!"

The unexpected answer elicited a collective gasp from the girls.

"What?! Higashino-senpai is too cunning!"

Ruiko was the first to shout it out, but there wasn't much dissatisfaction in her tone; instead, there was a hint of "I knew it" in her smile.

"Exactly! This is blatant shirking responsibility!"

Kuroko stood with his hands on his hips, looking very dissatisfied.

"Oh ho ho ho! I knew Higashino would make the fairest judgment!" After marriage, Mitsuko didn't think there was anything wrong with Higashino's statement and nodded in satisfaction.

Mikoto pouted: "Tch, trying to smooth things over..."

Pao Fu and Wan Nei exchanged a smile, not dissatisfied with the result, but rather feeling that it was quite good.

Gufa nodded slightly, agreeing that this was indeed the "safest" answer and the one most in line with the current atmosphere. After all, if a champion were to be chosen, the atmosphere might become rather awkward.

Chu Chun whispered, "But...but it's a promise..."

Seeing their reactions, Higashino's smile widened: "Requests? Of course you can make them! Since it's a victory for everyone, each of you can make a 'small' request to me!"

If everyone remembers this after the event, Higashino won't break his promise.

"However, we need to fill our stomachs first! Come on, let's dig in! Let's officially begin our victory feast!"

He was the first to pick up his bowl and chopsticks and scoop out a large spoonful of curry rice that was closest to him.

Although the girls complained about his cunning, they couldn't help but laugh when they saw his smug expression that said, "What can you do to me?" and looked at the delicious-looking dishes in front of them.

The initial dissatisfaction was quickly dispelled by the allure of the delicious food and the lively atmosphere of the gathering, and everyone began to eat.

Chapter 190 Swimsuits, Girls, Battle Royale!

The laughter and chatter of lunch gradually subsided, and the girls were all very satisfied with their meal. Surprisingly, their bellies showed almost no change and remained quite flat.

Higashino stood up, clapped his hands, and instantly attracted everyone's attention.

"Everyone! A wonderful lunch is over, it's time for the afternoon's entertainment!"

His voice was loud and clear, tinged with excitement.

Now that the important business and lunch are settled, it's time to get started on the long-planned thing.

"Entertainment activities?"

Mikoto raised an eyebrow, sensing that Higashino was up to something bad again.

She vividly remembered the last recreational activity suggested by Higashino: the water polo battle.

She was all too familiar with Higashino's smile; it was always the same smile he wore whenever he had a bad idea or wanted to bully her.

"What are you up to now?"

"Yeah, that perverted doctor, is he planning to do one of those punishment games again?!"

Shirai Kuroko glared at him warily. She remembered clearly the last time Higashino cheated; all the contestants were eliminated and punished.

Moreover, he just did so many bad things to me, and I don't think Higashino would act like a serious gamer at all.

Higashino's smile remained undisguised as he nodded.

"You guessed one thing right, Kuroko."