"Your faces are unfamiliar, esteemed guests. This must be your first visit to Tiangongyuan Pavilion, isn't it?"
The attendant gently set the teapot aside, rubbed his hands together slightly, and asked with a beaming smile, "May I ask whether you have come today to commission a plaque or lintel for your residence?"
"Or would you like an entire set of rosewood furniture made, perhaps some carved screens? Or do you need antique calligraphy and paintings restored?"
The attendant was sharp-tongued and clearly well-versed in his trade.
Before Jiang Che could even speak, he had already launched into an endless pitch about his workshop's core strengths.
"Esteemed guests, you've certainly come to the right place today!"
"The craftsmanship of our Tiangongyuan Pavilion is a renowned gold-standard brand throughout Bianliang City. We are absolutely second to none!"
"I wouldn't dare boast about anything else, but when it comes to custom plaques..."
Patting his chest, the attendant promised solemnly, "We use only top-grade Petrified Wood, sandalwood, or the finest Golden Phoebe that has been naturally air-dried for over five years!"
"The carving is exquisite, the prices are fair, and we never deceive young or old alike."
"The princes, nobles, and high officials of Bianliang City are all regular customers here!"
Jiang Che's expression remained unchanged as he listened to the attendant's extravagant boasting.
He lazily lifted the teacup beside him, removed the lid, gently blew away the floating tea leaves, and took a shallow sip.
"Make me one plaque for the main gate, along with three more for the side gates of the inner courtyard."
"The main plaque shall bear..."
Jiang Che pondered for half a second before uttering four words: "Listening to Rain and Observing Waves."
"As for the other three side-gate plaques, leave them blank. I will have someone inscribe them