The long table filled again at midday.
Anuar had cooked enough for the number of people present plus a reasonable margin, which Li had independently calculated and which turned out to be the same number Anuar had calculated, despite the two of them always fighting and having arrived at it by completely different routes.
"I can't believe everyone is eighteen already," said Liu again, in the same monotone.
"You said that this morning," said Taro.
"I'm saying it again because I find it relevant." Liu looked at the full group with the expression of someone who had something to say and was building it as he said it. "Eight years ago none of us imagined being where we are, thanks to Ren."
A brief silence.
"And in three days we'll be defending the wall," Liu continued. "Which is also relevant…"
"You said that this morning too," said Taro.
"Also relevant."
Ren looked at Liu.
