Qian saw someone coming from afar, and her hands didn't stop. If you're going to help, you better look like you're helping.
"We shouldn't have everyone continue gnawing on plain buns without dishes tonight. I saw the kitchen crew bringing a pig; they're getting ready to slaughter it. I bet once the fires die down tonight they'll boost everyone's energy, maybe even cook red-braised pork—oh my God! What have you done?" Apiao turned around, catching sight of Qian's actions, and his hair stood on end from fright.
He pushed Qian away in one swift motion.
Qian held up a bag of flour, looking innocent.
"Pouring flour, duh."
"Lady! You spilled a bag of lye and mixed half of it with flour! You've been kneading it for ages!"
Had Apiao not noticed, tonight not only would everyone miss out on red-braised pork, but they might not even get any buns. Those buns would take down a crowd like medicine.
