To the right of the storage room were a few side rooms where the guards, cleaners, and other servants lived. Moving forward from Yaelle's courtyard, there was a winding stone path paved with bluestone, leading like a trail into a mysterious world. In the center was a wide lotus pond, about three acres in size, surrounded by various green plants.
In summer, lotus leaves filled the pond and swayed gently in the wind, looking like a green ocean. A delicate stone bridge crossed the pond, built from bluestone, simple yet elegant. In the middle of the bridge was a pavilion, surrounded by railings, with glazed tiles on the roof that sparkled under the sunlight.
The weather in April was warm and pleasant, and a gentle breeze blew softly. Some small lotus buds had already emerged, shy and curious like young girls peeking at the world. They looked delicate and fresh, bringing energy and life to the whole pond.
Standing on the bridge, one could clearly see fish playing in the water. Occasionally, the croaking of frogs could be heard, filling the air with a sense of harmony and beauty. Last time, Yoel fell into the pond while feeding the koi here.
If it had been her, she wouldn't have looked so miserable, since she could swim. Past the lotus pond was the west wing. It used to be her brother's bedroom, but after their parents passed away, he moved into the main room.
Now it was his private study, filled with all kinds of books and writing materials, carrying a strong scholarly scent. The rooms in the east wing were elegantly arranged and clearly meant for female guests. These rooms were close to Yaelle's courtyard, giving a feeling of intimacy and convenience.
This layout considered the guests' comfort and showed the host's care and respect for female visitors. On a quiet night with moonlight falling on the windowsill, the women staying here might feel a special sense of warmth and peace. Going further ahead was the third row of main rooms in the courtyard.
Compared to the first row, these felt quieter and more private. The main room was spacious and bright, and the largest room had been their parents' bedroom. Now, everything inside was still arranged as it had been, as if time had frozen in place.
The bed, chairs, dressing table, and other furniture were all in order and spotless. Even though many years had passed, the items still seemed to carry the warmth and love of their parents. To preserve this room, someone was often assigned to clean it carefully.
They wiped every corner with great attention, guarding this precious memory. Every time someone stepped into the room, memories of the past came rushing back, stirring deep emotions and longing. To the left was the reception hall where their father used to meet guests.
It was spacious and bright, with a faint scent of age. The hall was arranged with simple elegance, with a set of antique wooden armchairs around a large tea table, and several elegant paintings hanging on the walls. The large room on the right was where her brother lived now.
Next to it was a smaller side room where his attendant Zack lived. He stayed close to her brother and helped with his daily needs. Walking a few more steps forward brought them to the place connected with the first row of rooms.
It was also paved with a winding bluestone path, stretching forward like it led into another mysterious world. To the right of the path stood a carefully carved artificial mountain. The stones on the mountain were jagged and varied in shape.
Some looked like an eagle about to take flight, others like a powerful lion, and some like an old man deep in thought. These stones were arranged so cleverly that they formed a vivid and poetic scene.
To the left of the path stood a pavilion with an ancient and elegant style. All around it were various green plants: lush bamboo, vibrant flowers, and dense leaves. Together they created a peaceful and graceful atmosphere.
Standing there felt like being close to nature, refreshing and soothing. Looking around, the courtyard was surrounded by greenery, full of life. The bamboo swayed gently in the breeze, rustling softly like a beautiful melody.
The arrangement felt pure and quiet, cutting off the noise of the world and leaving only inner peace.
On the east wing, a row of rooms had been carefully prepared as guest rooms for male visitors. Each room was simple yet tasteful, showing a masculine style. Upon entering, the first thing that caught the eye was the calligraphy and paintings on the wall, either delicate and fresh or bold and powerful.
They added an artistic touch to the space. Compared to the women's guest rooms, these rooms had a stronger scholarly vibe. The bookshelves were filled with various books.
The layout was also well-designed. The beds were wide and soft, allowing full rest. A fine writing desk was placed near the window for reading and writing.
The room's colors were mostly soft and light, creating a peaceful and calm mood. Staying in such a room would surely make guests feel at home.
Between the male and female guest rooms were several smaller rooms for the gatekeepers of the house. A side gate was opened on the east as well. It was the most commonly used entrance, allowing male and female guests to be received separately, men to the left and women to the right, to avoid awkward encounters.
The west wing was not in use at the moment.
Farther ahead, past the hanging flower gate and screen wall, was the last row of main rooms. There were seven rooms in total, each spacious and bright, giving off a solemn and respectful air.
The room next to the main gate housed the gatekeeper, who opened and closed the gate, received visitors, and ensured safety. On the right side lived the steward and the coachman.
The steward handled all household affairs like finances and chores, always keeping things in order. The coachman fed the horses and drove the carriage, taking the master out or delivering goods.
Looking around the courtyard, it might not be lavish, but every corner showed the owner's refined taste. From the moment one stepped inside, a different kind of atmosphere could be felt.
Every plant, stone, and pool in the yard was carefully arranged, showing the owner's love for life.
By the time they finished touring the garden, an hour had passed. Yaelle slowly led Attendant Sam and Attendant Sean back to her residence. She asked Attendant Sean to bring a few storybooks and records of folk tales from the study to read.
It was partly to pass the time and partly to learn about the local culture, geography, customs, and traditions. Since the original host's memories were incomplete and scattered, she worried about making a mistake and accidentally revealing something.