(T/N: In the original script, the author uses the character 妖怪; Yāoguài or Yaokai, which in English can mean demon, monster, spirit or apparition. Based on the light storyline and tending more towards everyday human life, hellowyellow decided to use the word 'Yaokai' instead of using `Demon′, `Monster,`Spirit′, or ′Apparition′, to describe each character. Even if there is the use of the word `Demon′ or `Monster,′ it is only used as a term to refer to a creature or human who has a dark, evil, cruel nature and aura like a demon or just to describe an ugly creature.)
"I have no interest in finding anyone," I said as I diligently wiped down an entire row of gss dispy cabinets, the exquisite candies and pastries inside striking charming poses that were simply tempting.
Behind me sat a woman in her thirties, with a round face and round eyes, her features delicately drawn, exuding an air of refinement. She ordered a cup of green tea and a tiramisu, having already occupied a wicker chair for an hour, her sole purpose evident—she wanted me to help her find someone, a man.
"I run a tea house, not a private detective agency." I couldn’t recall how many times I had refused her by now; the paper hat made from newspapers perched atop my head, looking rather ridiculous.
"I know you're not human," the woman said, her deep brown eyes reflecting a desperate hope, "and I know your rules."
She pulled out a package wrapped in bck cloth from her exquisite handbag and pced it heavily on the table. As she unveiled it, a dazzling golden light shone forth.
"Not even ten times this amount would change my mind." I sat down across from her, pushing the pile of shiny treasures back toward her. "I'm quite busy tely. I only have time to hear your story. Beyond that, I can do nothing."
The light in the woman's eyes dimmed, as if a candle had been snuffed out.
In early May, with the sun gently warming the air, there was an unremarkable little street paved with blue stones, supporting gray-white walls. Lush green ivy thrived along the walls, birds flitted by, and a few passersby wandered. At the end of the ne stood a small courtyard, said to be from the Ming and Qing dynasties, with a frail ginkgo tree in the back. Beneath the tree, a cluster of gardenias was just beginning to bloom, releasing a subtle fragrance into the air. Six months ago, I had merely gnced at this pce before buying it and opening this teahouse. The name was a bit peculiar—it was called `Endless′.
I liked gold but had no interest in desserts; I was afraid of gaining weight. I only opened this tea house because the two assistants I hired could only make sweets. They had deceived me about their skills, ciming to be versatile chefs with grandiose resumes.
In the end, my dream of opening a Sichuan restaurant was thwarted by this teahouse that could only sell tea and desserts, which is named ′Endless′ Tea House.
The woman was right; I am not human.
I am a tree yaokai, born in a December filled with swirling snow, wandering through the ages for a thousand years. Never has there been a pce where I could settle my feet for long.
"I'm only interested in hearing stories." As the aroma of tea wafted around me, I stretched zily, the setting sun casting a soft glow outside. My rexed demeanor clearly communicated to the woman: Speak if you have something to say, or leave if you don't.
“After hearing this story, I wonder if you′ll change your mind?” The woman took a sip of the emerald-green tea and slightly furrowed her brows.
I knew that the tea brewed from those leaves was quite bitter, and for every special guest who didn’t come for the desserts, I always recommended this tea.
This tea is called `Floating Life′ Tea.
The woman set down the pure white porcein teacup and took a gentle breath...
