In the days that followed, Hu Qi obediently remained within the academy.
He became a shut-in, never once stepping outside.
During this time, he was either practicing his Pile Skills or walking his duck. This uneventful life continued for over a month.
...
In the kitchen, tongues of blue flame licked at the bottom of the wok.
As the temperature steadily rose, the oil in the wok began to let off a faint wisp of smoke.
At that moment, a duck egg was cracked into the wok, letting out an instantaneous SIZZLE.
The egg solidified in a flash, its edges crisping into a golden-brown ring. The unmistakable aroma of a fried egg began to waft freely from the kitchen.
When he felt it was ready, Hu Qi flipped the egg with a flick of his wrist.
After another moment, he slid the fried egg directly onto a plate.
He grabbed a handful of chopped scallions and sprinkled them over the top.
