By the time the old fisherman brought a bowl of milky-white fish soup to the table, Cheng Yu had already woken Niu Ba from his sound sleep.
The old fisherman looked at Niu Ba in surprise and asked,
"Young fellow, can this ox of yours eat meat too?"
Smiling, Cheng Yu stroked Niu Ba's head and said,
"My ox is no ordinary ox. He is a spirit beast."
Understanding dawned on the old fisherman.
"Oh, no wonder he looked so clever to me. A spirit beast! That explains it. Come, come, ox, have a taste of my cooking."
As he spoke, the old fisherman ladled another large bowl of fish soup and set it before Niu Ba. Plenty of fish, vegetables, and tofu floated in the broth.
Niu Ba gave a soft moo, then lowered his head and tucked in.
Watching Niu Ba eat with such relish, the old fisherman wore a kindly smile, like a grandfather watching his plump grandson.
Cheng Yu smiled faintly, then lifted his own bowl of fish soup and took a small sip.
As a feast of flavors spread across his tongue, Cheng Yu inwardly lamented, Ah! If only Yunyangzi's body were even a little healthier, I could enjoy a good meal. What a shame!
Seeing Cheng Yu set down his bowl after a single sip, the old fisherman asked,
"Hmm? Why aren't you eating, young fellow? Is my cooking not to your liking?"
Cheng Yu shook his head gently.
"No, venerable lay Buddhist, your cooking is delicious. Were it not for the requirements of my cultivation, I would surely polish off the whole pot. Even the sight of this dish is a delight, so I couldn't resist a small taste. It truly is delicious. If I took another couple of mouthfuls, I fear I