The scent of grilled meat and spices drew Bai Lei's attention from his mission. His stomach growled as he approached a food stall tucked between two buildings. Steam rose from sizzling pans while lantern light cast a warm glow across the vendor's weathered face.
"Hungry, young man?" The mature woman behind the counter smiled, her silver-streaked hair tied back neatly. Her practiced hands moved across the grill with fluid grace.
Bai Lei's cheeks flushed. "That smells incredible."
"Sit, sit." She gestured to a wooden stool. "You look like you could use a hot meal."
The Thunderlord settled onto the seat, watching her work. Her movements reminded him of dance steps - each flip of meat, each dash of seasoning perfectly timed.
"I'm Ming Hua." She placed a steaming bowl before him. "Not many new faces in this part of the city."
