Even Lin Weishan, who had tried to stay stern after the river topic, ate more than he probably intended. Bai Ruyue's males all took turns asking about the herbs, and Xiong Han even admitted with great difficulty that the meat was better this way. Shui Lang clutched his chest as if hearing that confession had nearly killed him. Bao Xun quietly took note of which spice fruit she used. Ying Zhe, with his sharp hawk memory, repeated her steps perfectly after hearing them only once.
By the time everyone finished eating, the fire had burned lower, and the evening around them had deepened into a soft purple night. The tribe sounds became calmer. Males returned from work, females called cubs inside, cooking fires glowed between stone cave houses, and the scent of smoke and warm meat floated through the air.
Lin Huahua's younger brothers were still not ready to leave her alone.
