As the sun had yet to grace the sky with its radiance, Shen Cui's eyes fluttered open, and she tenderly rubbed away the remnants of sleep, her hand grazing her delicate features. A soft yawn escaped her lips, a testament to the lingering drowsiness. Casting aside the ethereal veil of the thin silk blanket, she gracefully emerged from her bed, her movements imbued with an innate precision. Stepping toward the window, she drew back the drapes to reveal a world refreshed. The spring rain had finally relented, leaving in its wake a serene tranquility. As she inhaled the crisp morning air, a symphony of scents embraced her senses—the redolence of earth, the aromatic essence of trees, and the delicate fragrance of wild flowers intermingling harmoniously. The sun, still concealed beyond the horizon, bathed the sky in a mesmerizing tapestry of dusky hues, casting a subtle glow that transcended the realm of darkness yet withheld the full radiance of daybreak.
As Shen Cui emerged from her chamber, she made her way to the servant quarters, where the bathhouse awaited her. With a purposeful stride, she sought to refresh herself for the day ahead. Taking up a twig of rosewood, she diligently brushed her teeth, the gentle bristles ensuring a thorough cleaning. A mouthful of salted water served as her gargle, purifying her breath and leaving a faint, invigorating taste behind. With her oral hygiene attended to, she proceeded to the bathhouse, where scented soap awaited her. Imbued with delicate fragrances, the soap enveloped her in a soothing lather, cleansing away the remnants of the night's rest. Moving to the basin, she rinsed her hair with the nourishing jade rice water, its rejuvenating properties revitalizing her locks and imparting a subtle radiance.
Shen Cui adorned herself in a flowing green robe, its long sleeves gracefully draping over her slender arms. Accompanied by matching trousers, the ensemble exuded an elegant charm. Embroidered shoes adorned her feet, adding a touch of intricate craftsmanship to her attire. Her lustrous black hair was adorned with a delicate pearl hairpin, serving as a captivating embellishment. From head to toe, Shen Cui exuded an aura of youthful vitality, her radiant presence captivating those who beheld her.
After adorning herself, Shen Cui carefully selected a basin, filling it with warm water and adding a few twigs of willow tree, infusing the liquid with a subtle fragrance. She also prepared a cup filled with salted snow water, ensuring the right balance of purity and refreshment. With her preparations complete, she ascended the stairs to the second floor of the house, making her way to the chamber of the esteemed young master, Fang Yuan. As his personal maid, she felt a sense of privilege and gratitude that Mistress had chosen her for such a prestigious position. This appointment was partly due to her mother's role as the head stewardess of the household, lending her a certain degree of influence and trust. Shen Cui couldn't help but entertain the enticing thoughts that if she managed to captivate Fang Yuan's heart and become his concubine, her life would be elevated to one of luxury and security. In the world of gu, where mortals were no different from ants, constantly at risk of being trampled without notice, finding someone to rely on and provide shelter became a paramount concern. She had witnessed the old master dispose of a servant who displeased him, a stark reminder of the ruthless nature of their existence. In this dog-eat-dog world, Shen Cui yearned for stability and protection, seeking solace in the embrace of someone who could shield her from the harsh realities of their society.
The rhythmic echoes of "bang, bang, bang" resounded through the serene embrace of the approaching dawn, orchestrated by the unwavering commitment of the diligent night watchman. With each deliberate strike of his wooden clappers against the resounding bell, a symphony of sound reverberated through the tranquil atmosphere, gracefully intertwining with the stillness of the towering pillar houses. The melodic cadence, infused with purpose and dedication, gradually permeated the slumbering village, delicately coaxing its inhabitants from their blissful rest. The harmonious resonance served as an enchanting call, gently shattering the silence and heralding the advent of a new day, a subtle reminder that life's rhythms persist even in the hushed moments of transition.
Shen Cui paused in front of the chamber door, her delicate hand poised to knock gently. With an air of utmost respect and deference, she spoke in a soft, melodious tone, "Young Master Fang Yuan, I humbly inquire if you have awoken. I have diligently brought the necessary provisions to facilitate your rejuvenation." Her words resonated with a subtle undercurrent of care and attentiveness, a testament to her unwavering commitment to her role as his personal maid.
After a momentary pause, the chamber door swung open, gradually revealing the captivating figure of a young man. His chiseled jawline exuded an authoritative air, perfectly complementing his commanding presence. The sharp arches of his brows resembled twin swords, further enhancing his striking features. Cascading in a waterfall of silk, his raven-black hair still glistened from his recent shower. Loose robes draped his form, hinting at a casual elegance that heightened his allure. The lingering scent of his bath enveloped the air, causing Shen Cui's cheeks to flush with a subtle rosy hue.
Suppressing her initial reaction, Shen Cui swiftly regained her composure, determined not to let her emotions betray her. With a warm smile gracing her lips, she greeted him in a soft, melodic voice, "Good morning, Young Master!" Her eyes sparkled with a mixture of admiration and respect. However, despite her sincere gesture, the young master's demeanor remained aloof and indifferent, his gaze as cold and unyielding as ever. It was as if an impenetrable barrier separated him from the world around him, leaving Shen Cui yearning to unravel the enigma that lay within his soul.
With a graceful step, Shen Cui entered the young master's chamber, carefully placing the basin filled with warm water on a nearby table. As he picked up a willow twig to brush his teeth, she stood attentively by his side, holding a cup of salt snow water, ready to assist him in freshening his mouth. With practiced precision, she extended the cup toward him, allowing him to rinse and cleanse, ensuring impeccable oral hygiene.
Once he finished, Shen Cui approached him, her hands skillfully gliding over his body as she assisted him in donning his robes. Every movement was executed with precision and devotion, highlighting her exceptional expertise as his personal maid. She meticulously arranged the fabric, ensuring it embraced his figure flawlessly, emphasizing his regal stature. Throughout her task, she occasionally brushed her ample bosom against his elbow or back, subtly teasing him with a seductive touch. Her actions served as a testament to her unwavering dedication, leaving no doubt about her commitment to fulfilling his desires.
"You can leave," Fang Yuan uttered dismissively, not bothering to look at Shen Cui as he tidied up his own sleeve cuffs. Shen Cui pouted slightly, finding Fang Yuan's perplexing behavior odd and upsetting. Although she felt tempted to respond in a spoiled manner, her fear of his cold and enigmatic nature stifled her, causing her mouth to open and close a few times before she finally managed to utter a submissive "yes" and obediently retreat.
Once fully attired, Fang Yuan gracefully exited the chamber, radiating an aura of quiet confidence. His meticulously chosen garments draped flawlessly over his frame, accentuating his regal stature and impeccable taste. The crisp morning air greeted him as he stepped into the corridor, his every movement purposeful and measured, a reflection of his unwavering determination.
To his surprise, his younger brother Feng Zheng awaited him just outside the chamber, a warm smile illuminating his face. "Good morning, brother," Feng Zheng greeted him with genuine affection. "The awakening ceremony is about to commence. We mustn't delay, or we risk being late."
Fang Yuan's gaze, however, remained cold and distant, betraying no hint of emotion. He dismissed his brother's presence with a mere flick of his hand, commanding, "Lead the way."
Feng Zheng, though taken aback by his brother's detachment, quickly composed himself, understanding the unspoken message conveyed through Fang Yuan's icy demeanor. Suppressing any disappointment, he gathered his resolve and silently took the lead, guiding them towards the resplendent clan pavilion where the awakening ceremony awaited them.
