during his waking hours he would blow his desire through the finely holed piece of red bamboo that he carried always at his side , along with his pouch and his pipe . i just sat there wondering what was going on . he was able to focus a little better and felt a little more prepared . and the way i caught him staring at me when he thought i was n't paying attention , well , i knew it was only a matter of time before he 'd say or do something . taste of plank in my mouth . 