It Tastes Spicy

They sat around the campfire--him, Huǒ Shuchang, and Huǒ Yulie. Youmei was still unconscious. The giant panther’s head rested on Wu Jian’s lap, and he stroked her head and ears, which twitched as though she were ticklish.

No one was saying anything. Huǒ Shuchang stood before the fire. A cauldron full of bubbling liquid hovered over the fire, set up on a tripod. He added ingredients from what they foraged one by one.

Huǒ Yulie sat beside Wu Jian, not quite close enough for their thighs to touch but close enough to feel each other’s warmth. She was staring at Youmei. With her mask removed, he could see the combination of worry and envy on her face. He understood the worry, but envy? Did she want a lap pillow too?

“How is she?” asked Huǒ Yulie.

“Youmei is fine. She’s just resting now,” Wu Jian said.

“That is good. I was worried.” Huǒ Yulie paused. “She is a yāomó panther, right? I’ve heard of them. They are extremely rare magical beasts that are said to be nearly extinct.”