Taf strolled on, the crowd continued to shout as people wanted to sign up with the gym. Without any interest in the commotion, he made his way to a bookstore, his original plan for the day.
As he gazed at the bookstore from the outside, it stood out, like a cottage in the woods, emanating warmth, coziness, and comfort.
Upon pushing open the old oak door, he was greeted by an elderly lady, sipping tea and quietly observing patrons selecting books.
While scanning the store, Taf saw a wide variety of books, catering to various interests such as cooking, romance, history, and adventure. The store was rich with knowledge.
Noticing his curious gaze, the elderly lady, perceptive from her years in the store, approached him, offering her assistance.
The kind smile she wore put Taf at ease, reminding him of Mrs. Ming, so his initial guard against strangers began to wane.
Noticing his awkward pause, she chuckled softly before offering, "Young one, you seem to be looking for something. Might I be of some help?"
Impressed by her warmth, Taf smiled and replied, "Yes, I am looking for something to read, ma'am. I am curious about cultivation and adventures outside of the city. I would be truly grateful for your advice."
The kind elderly lady's smile grew even more sympathetic at his utmost politeness. She found him akin to her granddaughter, always fascinated by the outside world and brimming with curiosity and wonder.
Regrettably, she informed Taf that there were minimal written materials on cultivation in the store. Disheartened, he started to show his disappointment, but the elderly lady reassured him, "I said minimal, young one, not none. In fact, I might have something perfect for you. It is a journal"
The mention of a journal in the store's archive intrigued Taf, and as the elderly lady continued, he became truly excited.
She shared, "This journal was written by an old friend of mine, documenting his life as a servant of a cultivator. He entrusted it to me before he passed, with the specific wish to pass it on to a young soul thirsty for knowledge and with an adventurous mind, like you." She playfully pinched his cheeks and added, "Not many share this craving for knowledge. It's a delight to see that in you."
She headed to the back of the store and returned with a small brown book, sharing its significance and the importance it held for her friend.
She then handed it to Taf, saying, "As this was a friend's request, this journal will be given to you freely. However, you must promise me to take care of it, as it held immense value to him. This journal was his most prized possession, capturing the proudest and most disappointing moments of his life."
Taf made a solemn vow to take good care of the book, honoring the old lady's friend and his journey.
Gratified by his sincerity, the elderly lady smiled, finding him worthy.
"Then you are indeed worthy of selection. This old one's surname is Grace." To provide a bit of closeness, she then told Taf her name.
"If you ever want to come back and open your mind to more knowledge, my store doors will always be open."
Taf bowed once more after receiving the journal, uttering, "I am Taf. Thank you, Senior Grace."