The country of Nan Zhou.
Located in the southernmost part of the Great Yan, it was a land of river valleys and rice paddies. While it couldn't compare to the opulence and bustling population of the Imperial Capital in its prosperous glory, this place had a unique charm of its own.
In a quaint, Jiangnan-style courtyard within the Nanzhou Capital City, a small bridge arched over a flowing stream. The moss on the flagstone path was a rich, deep green, and by the courtyard gate, a large wooden armchair swayed gently.
After weeding the crops in the paddy, a handsome youth lay back in the chair, wiped the sweat from his brow, and broke into a contented smile.
Just then—
KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK.
A sudden knock came from the courtyard gate.
A sweet, girlish voice followed from outside the gate. "Brother Yu, are you home?"
The handsome youth stood up, raised his head with a smile, and called out, "I am. What is it?"
