The curse word which slipped from Zhang Bo's lips was heard by all. It was carried by the wind to all corners of the room. It was not shouted deliberately, it slipped out accidentally, but it was heavy with frustration. Everyone froze for a heartbeat. Then, Tai Alix, seated regally at the table with the elders opened her mouth and released a stream on fire in Zhang Bo's direction.
Many heads were lowered, a few gasps echoed, but no one screamed or ran for their life. The family was used to this--her mother's temper was legendary. Her fire as natural as breathing.
Zhang Bo's wife Mantis leaned forward calmly and swallowed the fire whole, as if it were nothing more than a sip of tea. The flames vanished into her throat, leaving only the faint scent of smoke. The relative remained seated and engrossed in different conversations. They were unfazed, their expressions betraying neither shock nor alarm.
This was family business, and dragon fire was just another language spoken here.
