Yesterday evening, Manager Hong had already arranged for his men to set up the stage for the competition.
Now, his restaurant's waiters carried out two simple, sheet-metal-bound stoves and placed them in the center. Large woks were set on top, and on either side, long tables were arranged, laden with all the necessary ingredients, oil, salt, and utensils.
Meanwhile, Ji Huan had pulled a banner taut and hung it above her shop's sign.
The banner was emblazoned with a long line of elegant calligraphy: The First "Hundred Flavors Cup" Cooking Competition.
She chose this name partly to make it sound official, and partly, of course, due to her own mischievous sense of humor.
However, she never imagined that the "Hundred Flavors Cup" would go on to be held year after year.
