Zhou Silang, seeing that Manbao had brought back so many delicious foods, was both happy and pained, but happiness ultimately prevailed. As he bustled about the kitchen, he whispered to Manbao, "Don't tell Dad when we get back home."
Manbao nodded, "I won't say anything."
If her fourth brother didn't benefit, she would get scolded too—sabotaging oneself and others was not her style.
Zhou Silang was then reassured and took a large portion of the chicken soup to blanch the greens and slices of meat.
Bai Shanbao and the others squeezed into the kitchen to join in the buzz, sampling a bite when it was ready.
Zhou Silang asked as he watched them, "How is it?"
Bai Shanbao replied, "It's a bit bland."
"I'll add some salt," he said, reaching for the salt.
Bai Erlang noted, "It seems to be lacking in richness too."
