A large pot of hot water begins to bubble. Dumplings are put one by one carefully into the water, making some splashes, like people jumping into the swimming pool. After a few minutes, they start to float on the water. Their skin is becoming a bit transparent, the orange of carrots and the green of beans can be seen through, which makes them look very delicious. Eight of us are sitting close together in the living room, eating these dumplings which are made by ourselves. The apartment is on the 28th floor and has an amazing view out of the balcony. On the left-hand side, tall buildings stand with sparkling night lights; directly in front of the balcony, bungalows form numerous squares. Cars, street lamps and houses, coloured lights illuminate the city.