Looking After (II)

Torches were lit behind Ning Que and left a clear shadow of him in the front.

A small table was placed on top of the city wall. There was a pot on the table. The finest charcoal was burned in the pot that made no smoke at all. The soup was boiling in the copper pot, and plates of vegetables and meat were placed around the pot. It became warmer. A Tang soldier placed some sauce, a bowl, and chopsticks in front of him and asked, "Master, do you want a drink tonight?"

"Yes please."

Ning Que had spent all his time on top of the city wall for days. He had gotten used to dining in the chilly autumn wind. The hot pot and liquor could only warm him up a bit.

The juicy beef and lamb were boiled in the well cooked bone soup and smelled amazing. Then the vegetables were put into the soup.

Ning Que sat down by the table and started eating. He did not have a guest to entertain or a companion to chat with. Although the food was great, he felt lonely.