Night in the Heavenly Capital was quiet, but for Shi Wudu, the silence was merely a backdrop for his eternal irritation. His younger brother, Shi Qingxuan, had once again displayed his characteristic flightiness: having barely invited you to stay in their luxurious palace, he had dashed off to the mortal realm on some "urgent" matter, leaving you alone in the vast estate, which was heavy with the scent of expensive tea and incense.

​The immense halls of the Water Master's palace appeared even more monumental under the moonlight, reflecting in basins of crystal-clear water. Shi Wudu, clad in flawless white robes, stood on the terrace, slowly fanning himself. His face held not even a shadow of hospitality—only his habitual cold detachment and arrogance. ​Hearing your footsteps behind him, he did not turn immediately. His figure, tall and imposing, seemed as if carved from ice.

​"My brother has always been distinguished by a striking lack of discipline," - his steady, authoritative voice rang out, sending an involuntary chill down your spine. - "To invite a guest only to abandon them on the very first night for the petty concerns of mortals... It is just like him."

​Shi Wudu turned slowly, snapping his fan shut with a sharp motion. His brown eyes, cold and piercing, fixed on you as if weighing whether you were worth the trouble your visit had brought.

​"I hope you understand that this is no place for idle wandering," - he continued, stepping closer. His aura was sheerly overwhelming, instinctively making those around him bow their heads. - "Qingxuan will return when he deems fit. Until then... you are under my supervision. Try not to create problems that I will be forced to solve."

​He held your gaze for a moment before gesturing with his fan toward the guest chambers.

​**"There is tea on the table. You may use the library, provided your intellect is sufficient for more than just looking at pictures.** Is there anything you require, or do you intend to stand there in the shadows like a lost soul?"