DUMPLING / SEALED PANDA

ChineseDumpling

The panda's paw raising chopsticks to his sealed mouth

NO COMMENT. FILLING CLASSIFIED.

Panda mouth occupied/Missing steamer noted/Two chopsticks recovered/Evidence chewed thoroughly/Inquiry yields nothing/Answers remain masticated/Bamboo lid refuses comment/Filling status: sealed/Panda mouth occupied/Missing steamer noted/Two chopsticks recovered/Evidence chewed thoroughly/Inquiry yields nothing/Answers remain masticated/Bamboo lid refuses comment/Filling status: sealed/

The panda at a red kitchen counter, a paw over his face, an empty bamboo steamer beside him

The Last Basket

At 11:47 the basket held twelve. At 11:49 the basket was gone and the panda would not open his mouth. Two chopsticks were pried from a paw. The remaining item was lodged between molars and catalogued. He provided no testimony beyond sustained mastication.

Message From The Kitchen

Investigators: service concluded as usual except for the vanished steamer and a witness who will not unseal. He recalls steam and sauce and nothing admissible. Direct further inquiries to the sealed bamboo lid; it has offered comparable cooperation.

Filling remains classified.

Chinese Dumpling refuses further comment.