The Destination

As I sat deep in thought, the faint sound of tableware caught my attention. Entering the library's archway was a young woman who appeared to be in her mid-twenties, possessing delicate features and an air of quiet grace. Her long, dark hair was tied in a traditional bun, and she was dressed in modest yet elegant clothing, wearing a neatly pressed light brown linen robe.

She carried a tray covered in embroidered silk, upon which sat porcelain plates, bowls, and utensils, as well as two teapots and an elegant teacup. All the tableware featured a blue and white rice pattern design.

Butler Feng nodded towards her, and she proceeded inside the library. Approaching, she placed the tray on a carved wooden stand beside the table. She turned to me and bowed, asking respectfully, "Shall I serve you tea, Young Master?"

"Yes," I confirmed. She nodded and picked up an empty teapot, deftly filling it with hot water from another. She then proceeded to fill the teacups with the heated water. Setting down the full teapot, she took the other one, giving it a gentle swirl to warm its interior. She then poured the water from the teapot into an empty bowl, ensuring it was at the perfect temperature.

With great care, she placed tea leaves inside the warmed teapot, ensuring they were evenly distributed. Then, she gracefully poured the hot water from the full teapot onto the leaves, allowing them to steep and infuse the water with their rich, delicate flavors. The entire process was a dance of precision and elegance, reflecting the maidservant's skill and respect for the ancient art of tea preparation.

In the meantime, I stacked the books together and instructed Butler Feng, "I am done reading; you can put them away." Feng nodded, collected the books, and proceeded to return them to their proper place.

"Your tea, Young Master," the maidservant announced, presenting the teacup, which was three-quarters full.

"Thank you," I replied, taking the cup. Upon my first sip, I was immediately captivated by the tea's delightful aroma, reminiscent of fresh citrus and fragrant flowers. The uplifting scent alone awakened my senses and elevated my mood, enticing me to take another sip. As the tea met my palate, an exquisite balance of flavors unfolded. The tea had a base of high-quality green or white tea leaves, providing a delicate, refreshing taste that was neither too strong nor too weak.

"Haaa," I sighed, savoring the tea and reflecting on my experience. "These ancient Chinese people truly understood relaxation. I've never experienced such treatment that makes one feel as if nothing is wrong in the world, and all worries are for naught."

"The tea is really good. Can you also serve me the food?" I requested, feeling at ease.

"Yes, Young Master," she replied, clearly pleased that I enjoyed the tea.

She unfolded a cloth that had been folded on the tray and laid it on the table. The red cloth featured floral embroidery here and there. Next, she placed a bowl of what appeared to be rice porridge on the cloth, accompanied by a utensil. She then arranged a plate with small bite-sized dumplings and another bowl containing a milk-like substance, likely soy milk.

"Thank you; you may leave now." She nodded, gathered the tray, and exited the library.

...

As I finished my meal, I turned to Butler Feng who stood attentively beside the table. "I am done with my meal."

"Yes, Young Master," he replied. Then, with a clap of his hands, two servants dressed in the same styled robes as the previous one entered. They efficiently gathered the dishes and left the room in silence.

"Hmm, Feng, bring me a map of the compound," I decided, realizing it would be helpful to familiarize myself with the layout of my home.

"Right away, Young Master." He bowed, his dark robe creasing, and promptly went to retrieve the map. I observed as he approached a wooden shelf that held multiple scrolls neatly stacked atop one another. Carefully, he moved two scrolls aside and picked up the one at the bottom. After placing the others back in their original positions, he returned to my table and set the scroll down.

The scroll was crafted from high-quality paper, with its edges adorned by ornate metal rollers. These not only allowed it to be conveniently rolled up when not in use but also provided protection and structure to the delicate material. As Feng unveiled the contents within, I saw a meticulously hand-drawn map rendered in ink that had withstood the test of time. The majestic compound, featuring four grand courtyards, was colored using subtle, natural hues that distinguished various geographical features, such as bodies of water, mountain ranges, and forests.

The four impressive courtyards followed a central axis, each containing small towers and gardens interspersed with winding waterways. Flanked by high stone walls, the courtyards boasted large moon gate openings that led to magnificent halls and palaces, which in turn connected to living areas and pavilions. The main gate, facing south, was a grand stone entrance. Near the back of the compound lay a large field encircled by barracks and storage areas.

Sunlight soon poured through the lattice window beside me, drawing my gaze to the captivating garden outside. I was situated in one of the courtyards near the main residence and ancestral hall. But now, I knew my next destination - the Cloud Serpent Ancestral Pavilion.