A Quiet Night

Moonlight spilled over the earth, and night brushed across the mountains. Bonfires were lit in the pasture, and the scent of roasting meat drifted on the wind. The Imperial Guard warriors gathered around the perimeter, forming several tight little circles, protecting the respected His Highness at the center. Not far away, the bison stared wide-eyed, watching all this with curiosity and wariness, letting out low rumbles from time to time.

Xolotl closed his eyes, gripped the Sun Amulet at his neck, and led them in a low prayer.

"Praise the Main God, who grants us giant beasts and gives meat to all peoples!"

"Praise the Main God, who grants us meat!"

Everyone answered in unison, praying to the Main God for a moment before beginning to enjoy dinner.

Under Nashu's direction, Mohe busied himself personally, preparing two portions of roasted ribeye for His Highness and sprinkling them with costly spices. After that, Nashu tasted a piece, waited a moment, and nodded in satisfaction before handing the roasted beef to His Highness.

Xolotl took a bite, and his eyes instantly lit up. He praised it in a low voice.

A bison weighed over a thousand jin, but its choicest parts only amounted to a dozen or so jin, and the finest sirloin and tenderloin were even scarcer. This piece of ribeye was counted among the essence of the essence, its meat marbled with fat and lean, tender without being greasy. Coupled with the excellent control of the grilling heat, sweet juices were locked within, and the rich aroma of meat blended perfectly with the faint spices. One bite was truly unforgettable!

Xolotl chewed in great mouthfuls, only letting out a satisfied long breath after he had finished the entire portion of roasted meat.

"Good! Excellent! So fresh and delicate, fragrant, tender,