"Phantom Rebirth: The Last White Raven’s Path to the Ultimate Assassin"

Chapter 410 – Enchanted Forest Cream Pudding

The golden rays of mid-morning filtered through the bakery’s windows, casting a gentle glow across the polished wooden counters and the light sheen of flour that dusted the air like gentle fairy dust. The Celestial Lemon Tart and the Moonlit Elixir of Wishes sparkled proudly in the front display, drawing the eyes of passersby like twin stars.

Inside, the cozy warmth of Moonlight Delights Bakery wrapped around Seraphis and Rowan like a well-worn blanket. The scent of lemon, vanilla, and sweet coconut still lingered—but Rowan had that look again. The look of a baker with one more idea ready to bloom.

Seraphis caught it instantly. “Another recipe?”

Rowan grinned, grabbing a fresh sheet of parchment and twirling her quill in her fingers. “Next on the menu…” she said dramatically, “Enchanted Forest Cream Pudding.”

Enchanted Forest Cream Pudding

Ingredients:

For the Pudding:

• 2 cups whole milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option)

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup cornstarch

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

• Green food coloring (optional, for a forest-like hue)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Edible flowers or fresh berries (for decoration)

• Crushed pistachios or chopped nuts (optional, for a crunchy element)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pudding:

   In the kitchen’s sunlit corner, Rowan measured out the sugar, cornstarch, and salt, whisking them together in a medium saucepan until smooth. The fine grains shimmered like morning dew as she worked.

   Slowly, she poured in the cold whole milk, whisking continuously. The cornstarch dissolved into the liquid like silk, and soon the mixture was smooth and pale. With the pan placed over medium heat, she stirred gently, the rhythm steady and soothing.

   “You have to keep stirring,” Rowan said, “or it’ll clump or scorch.” The heat slowly thickened the mixture, bubbles forming at the edges. After about seven minutes, it reached a soft, creamy consistency, thick enough to coat the back of the spoon.

   She took it off the heat and stirred in the vanilla and almond extracts, the room suddenly filled with the dual fragrances of sweet comfort and nutty elegance. Then came a few careful drops of green food coloring—a soft, vibrant hue that deepened until the pudding looked like a potion brewed in an enchanted glade.

   They poured the creamy mixture into four small glass bowls. The pudding settled with a smooth surface, glimmering faintly green in the light like moss kissed by morning dew.

   “It already looks like it came from a forest,” Seraphis remarked.

   “That’s the goal,” Rowan said with a proud smile.

   The bowls were covered with wrap and placed gently into the refrigerator to set for a few hours.

2. Make the Whipped Topping:

   Later, as the puddings chilled, Rowan poured the cold heavy cream into a chilled mixing bowl. The electric mixer hummed softly as it beat the cream into soft peaks. She added powdered sugar and vanilla, then continued until the cream was thick, fluffy, and cloud-like.

   “Taste it,” Rowan said, offering Seraphis a spoonful.

   Seraphis took a bite—soft, light, sweet but not overpowering. “Perfect,” she said.

3. Serve the Pudding:

   When the puddings were firm and cool, they removed the bowls from the fridge. The green base had taken on a silky, custard-like sheen, firm enough to hold its shape but delicate enough to jiggle slightly.

   Rowan spooned thick, luxurious dollops of whipped cream atop each one. The contrast of green and white looked like snow resting on moss. She added a few edible flowers—tiny violets and bluebell petals—followed by bright red berries and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios, adding a crunchy finish and a splash of color.

   Each pudding looked like a fairy’s feast: elegant, fresh, and touched by something magical.

They each took a spoonful.

The first bite was smooth and creamy—the vanilla and almond pairing with the faintest floral hint from the decorations. The texture was silky, soft yet satisfying, and the topping added a light, airy contrast.

Seraphis closed her eyes for a second. “It tastes… peaceful. Like eating a dream in a forest clearing.”

Rowan laughed lightly. “Exactly what I hoped for.”

They stood together, silently appreciating the creation before Rowan lifted one bowl—carefully garnished and picture-perfect—and walked toward the front of the bakery.

There, in the display window, the Celestial Lemon Tart glowed like sunlight. The Moonlit Elixir of Wishes shimmered like moonlight. And now, nestled between them, she placed the Enchanted Forest Cream Pudding, like a gift from the earth itself.

The trio of desserts looked like they belonged together: sky, moon, and forest. A perfect harmony of elements—each one an invitation into a different dream.

Rowan folded her arms, satisfied. “We’ve made a story with these.”

Seraphis nodded, her expression soft. “And we’re only getting started.”