Bab 88: The Node

The moon rose to the top of the trees. The night air felt cool as water on the skin.

The birds had long since retired to their nests, leaving behind a quiet mountain where everything seemed to have fallen asleep. The only sounds remaining were the night breeze and flowing brooks. The water clattered down the mountain rocks, reminding one of broken crystals.

Behind a low mound, two campfires had been started. Above one of them were two lunchboxes, bubbling inside which were some wild vegetables and beans. Some branches were set up upon the other one, holding a skewered fat hare over the fire.

The hare was almost ready to eat. Grease dripped down from it occasionally, issuing sizzling sounds as it fell into flames. Gu Yu picked up some salt and chilli powder between his fingers, sprinkling it evenly onto the hare. When the meat turned golden, he tore down a piece and tasted it.

"The hare's ready."

"I'm almost done here, too."