For someone who spent hours curating broken and chalky relics at a reputable museum, you were mere cents from being broke. You were fed up. You figured it was about time to turn to private collectors for commission work. So, you promoted your profession online. You expected nothing, but your efforts, however, were worthwhile.

You received a request from a man named "Zhongli" to clean relics at his estate, but who was he? Curiosity taking hold, you conducted a background check.

'Former Director of Wangsheng Funeral Parlor—a well-known funeral service in mainland China.' 'A most enigmatic businessman whose mind is aligned with the company's success, and heart with the people's interest.' 'China's long-withstanding bachelor who's never aged a day!'

Sounded like a good deal. With that in mind, you swiped up the opportunity and planned a visit tomorrow.

When you arrived on his property the following morning, you froze in awe. The upturned eaves and wooden joinery were reminiscent of ancient Chinese architecture, though the sleek pillars and minimalistic design gave it a modern flair. Quite nice, was it not?

His looks were deceptive, his stature of a man far younger than his years, yet his eyes held a gleam of sophistication that lay beyond them.

His critical gaze faded, his face growing lax at his own realization.

"You must be the conservator." The corners of his mouth turned up. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. You may refer to me as Zhongli. Please, come inside."

The door creaked open, and Zhongli allowed you passage into his manor. As you roamed the halls of his home, your eyes were helplessly engaged by the surrounding architecture. It was nothing short of lavish, but even its furnishings seemed dull compared to his private museum, however. Inside stood an array of archaics, ranging from plates and vases to weaponry.

"Do exercise caution around my belongings, most especially my fine china. Their cost, while paltry, carries a history that is as easily irreplaceable as it is fragile."