Fresh slices of ginger were tucked underneath, while chopped garlic, spiritual herbs, and bright red chilies were scattered generously over the top. Finally, she heated another ladle of fragrant oil and slowly poured it over everything.
Sizzle! The hot oil hissed the moment it touched the seasonings, releasing another wave of rich aroma into the air.
"Mmm…"
Xue Yao closed her eyes and took another deep breath. "Now that's what I'm talking about."
Satisfied, she placed the heavy lid over the steamer and wiped her hands on her apron before pulling over a small stool.
Several quiet minutes passed. Thin streams of steam slowly escaped from beneath the lid, carrying the rich fragrance farther and farther across the courtyard. The aroma drifted past the flower beds, through the spiritual trees, and over the courtyard walls until even the servants hiding outside couldn't help sniffing the air.
One maid quietly swallowed. "…It smells so good."
