Night fell like a thick blanket of black velvet, slowly covering the earth.
The splendor and bustle of daytime settled beneath the cool moonlight, giving way to tranquility.
Beneath a towering boulder that sheltered him from the wind, Xia Sheng pitched a simple tent. Warm light from a glowing crystal spilled through the gap in the tent flap.
He sat inside, holding a steaming meal made with spiritual ingredients. Its rich aroma chased away some of the night's chill.
He savored it in small bites, with a floating split-screen display before him.
On the screens, his brothers were all enjoying delicious food. Whenever their conversation reached a high point, they raised their cups and toasted one another from afar.
"Kid, how come you get to eat delicious spiritual fish? Do you even know how to appreciate it? Hurry up and send me some." Seeing the Reproductive System eating fish, Xia Sheng raised his chopsticks and addressed one of the screens.
"Heh, this fish really does taste great. You guys should all try some." Hearing him, the Reproductive System on-screen laughed and opened the squad trading interface. He split the pot of fish in front of him into portions and sent them to Xia Sheng and the others.
"Hey, Nervous System, what chef made the spiritual meal you're eating? I've never seen it before. Hurry up and send me a bite to try." The Urinary System's voice came from another screen.
Xia Sheng heard him and laughed, shaking his head. Then he deftly pulled several wooden bowls from his spatial bag.
He used his chopsticks to divide the colorful, fragrant, and delicious food among the bowls, then smiled and said:
"Give it a try. I learned this Tidal Five-Treasure Stew from a big shot in the spiritual-chef community on the forums.