Count's daughter Melphiera was isolated within aristocratic society. The reason was, surprisingly, her “malicious eating”—a hobby completely unlike that of other young ladies. Unlike the beautifully dressed and elegantly smiling noble ladies, she had a preference for “deliciously cooking and eating monsters.” The eccentric Melphiera had her destined encounter at a gala. As magical beasts rampaged and nobles fled in panic, the one who saved her was Duke Galbraith, known by the epithet “Mad-Blood Duke.” His appearance was truly dramatic, with the striking impact of his blood-stained sword and golden eyes. Yet, Melphiera's sensibility, where “curiosity” overrides fear toward him, is what truly draws the reader in.

The interesting part of this story is that a “hobby” that would normally be rejected becomes the central point of the narrative. The premise of deliciously cooking and eating monsters could easily become grotesque, but Melphiera's bright and pure spirit of inquiry elevates it into gourmet entertainment. And the one drawn to her individuality of “malicious eating” is Duke Galbraith, who is blood-stained from the battlefield but actually possesses a delicate heart. The way his ruggedness and kindness perfectly mesh with Melphiera's curiosity and boldness, gradually building a strange yet heartwarming relationship, is depicted with great care. With a composition where food, battle, and love intersect exquisitely, the story transcends a mere romance, making it impossible to stop turning the pages.

As the story progresses, it becomes clear that Melphiera's hobby is not just an eccentric quirk but is connected to societal implications and personal convictions. In a value system where monsters = dangerous beings = things to be eliminated, the choice to “savor them” is extremely unusual. However, it is precisely this choice that shakes the common sense of this world. There are many moments where readers are compelled to think, “I see,” about her challenging stance, and upon realizing the theme hidden behind the eccentricity, they will feel a greater depth than just a simple romance fantasy.

The battles with magical beasts, the intensity of sword fighting, the overwhelming presence of the Mad-Blood Duke, and the humorous and delicious-looking “monster cuisine” depicted in between. This exquisite balance is the true essence of Akujiki Reijou to Kyouketsu Koushaku. Intense action scenes, gentle interactions in momentary glimpses, and a variety of fantastical dishes spread across the plates. It is rare for a work in a fantasy world to have food and romance so intertwined in driving the story, making it truly an “unconventional” gourmet romance. Moreover, the characters' exchanges are lighthearted, the story's pace is good, and there are many moments that naturally bring a smile to your face while reading.

Akujiki Reijou to Kyouketsu Koushaku may seem like a story that chooses its readers, but it is actually a story that is kinder to “loneliness” than any other. A quiet yet powerful empathy flows through the process of Melphiera, who has a hobby outside the norm, and the Duke, who has returned from a bloody battlefield—two seemingly incompatible people—meeting and gradually connecting their hearts. It is beautiful precisely because it is different. The story possesses a depth that gets richer the more you savor it, leaving you feeling full in both heart and stomach after reading. Do “partake” in this ultimate unconventional fantasy.