Steam rose from the massive stew pot, a rich scent blooming into the air like a warm fragrance to the nose. Hunger suddenly became unbearable. The scent of slow-roasted boar with forest herbs and the faint sweetness of simmering root vegetables reached even the dorm blocks.
Zhao Ren tried to sneak a peek through the kitchen window but was shoved back by a growling survivor.
Inside, Zhao Yuan spun a cleaver with ease, slicing thick chunks of wild goat meat and tossing them into a hot wok. Oil snapped loudly. Flames flared up and reflected in his eyes.
"Rice is done!" shouted Wu Qian.
"Boar belly's ready to glaze!" Si Manman called.
Shen Yuqiao slid a tray of roasted mushrooms out of the oven, their golden tops steaming. She dusted them with powdered rock salt and placed them in polished canteen trays.
"Send them to the food counter," she said. Her voice was steady, but her hands moved with speed born from adrenaline.
Outside, the food counter's screen lit up with today's menu.
