"That's enough." The king raised a hand, and the entire palace immediately fell silent.
"Seeing as Chef Mag doesn't wish to remain in the royal kitchen, I won't force him to stay against his will. Even so, the three dishes he offered today were still the best I've tasted, and he's very much worthy of the best dish award." The king turned his gaze toward Mag, and said, "He will be rewarded 1,000 dragon coins, as well as a plaque that says 'Best of the Royal Banquet' that can be hung up in his restaurant."
"Thank you, Your Majesty." Mag extended a grateful bow toward the king, but he was internally grumbling, How the hell am I supposed to hang up a plaque like that in my restaurant?!
The king nodded, and continued, "Seeing as you're held in such high regard, and you're the father of Krassu's disciple, as well as a genius mathematician in Byron's eyes, there's no need for you to go back to the kitchen. You'll be granted a seat here in the palace for the duration of this banquet."
