He picked up an uncovered metal pot, filled it with water from the tap, and placed it firmly on the fire. He stood right there, completely still, and watched the pot.
He didn't move an inch. A few moments later, the water started to bubble and boil, white steam rising up toward the ceiling.
With all seriousness, he waited more, just standing in the heat, until the gas stove automatically clicked off on its own after boiling the water to a scalding steam.
Qin Mo then brought out a big ceramic bowl from the cupboard and tossed it into the sink. He lifted the hot pot carefully and poured the boiling water, at least what was remaining of it, directly into the bowl.
Then, he turned on the cold tap water, watching as the clear stream poured into the hot water, diffusing the heat until it was just right. After the bowl was half filled, he turned off the water and left the kitchen.
