The Ger's Contract Marriage [BL]
Chapter 111: Central Bookstore

Chapter 111: Central Bookstore

Xu Feng true to his word decided to buy a set of enlightenment books, paper, and an ink and quill set. In either bookstore, he hadn’t gone over this area, skimming it only lightly. Xuan Yang promised to help him with his studies for the scholar’s exam, so he would leave his choice of materials to the actual scholar.

The choice of enlightenment books, the quality of paper, and the ink and quill sets presented an interesting range of options. From simple designs to more ornate and detailed ones, the variety was mind blowing.

Xu Feng examined the collection with deep interest, realizing that the selection of these materials would be important for his own journey toward becoming a scholar.

He was drawn to the ornate and beautifully crafted ink and quill sets. Some had intricately carved handles, while others featured elegant, minimalistic designs. The variety of choices ranged from classic and traditional to more artistic. But there were only one of a kind of several designs.

The paper was equally appealing. Xu Feng marveled at the rich textures and the array of colors available, from the purest white to soft pastels. Some sheets were delicately embossed with intricate patterns, while others had a smooth and pristine finish.

As he considered his choices, Xu Feng couldn’t help but feel a bit overwhelmed by the intricacies of these sets. They were not just tools; they were works of art in themselves. Each piece seemed to tell a story, one that confused him.

The selection process for enlightenment materials had left Xu Feng a bit overwhelmed, and he opted for a practical approach by choosing a random set that fell somewhere between the cheapest and most expensive options. He felt that this balanced choice was suitable for their needs.

With a basket of enlightenment materials in hand from the first store and another from the second, they were well-prepared for their future studies. The combined weight of the materials was considerable, yet Erlang insisted on carrying the burden.

Xu Feng was taken aback by Erlang’s determination to carry the books. His young servant’s strength was impressive, and Xu Feng couldn’t help but feel guilty for making him shoulder such a heavy load.

As they approached the carriage, Xu Feng couldn’t hide his exhaustion. The day had been filled with exploration and heavy purchases, and it had taken a toll on his energy. Every step felt like a struggle, and he moved as if he were carrying a heavy load, despite having his hands free.

In contrast, Erlang seemed relatively unfazed, although a layer of sweat glistened on his forehead. Xu Feng couldn’t help but think he needed more physical activity and exercise to build his stamina.

On the other hand, Erlang’s thought was much different. ’A young master shouldn’t walk so much.’ Erlang felt guilty.

With the evening approaching, Xu Feng looked forward to returning home, where he could relax and reflect on the treasures they had gained.

In Central Bookstore, Xu Feng and Erlang explored the larger selection of books, perusing the extensive collection.

With most of his shopping done earlier, Xu Feng was more relaxed as he scanned the various titles and topics. He had already accumulated a significant number of books and materials for his studies. There was a sense of contentment in him as he found himself surrounded by the ancient knowledge.

Among the books that piqued his interest were those containing detailed information about the history of not just Donghua, but also Dongzhou. He also looked for books discussing the immortal beasts and their bloodlines, farming practices, and the types of plants and animals found in Donghua and the surrounding countries.

As he leisurely walked through the shelves, his eyes caught sight of a beautifully illustrated herbalism book. The pages were filled with vibrant depictions of various herbs, plants, and flowers, along with their medicinal properties and uses. It was a treasure of information that Xu Feng couldn’t resist.

Erlang watched Xu Feng’s interest with a faint smile. He was aware that his young master was not just buying books out of curiosity but also out of a genuine desire to learn and improve himself. This was a stark contrast to the young mistress Xu Feng occasionally portrayed.

Xu Feng had a lot he wanted to know. There were already a few books piled up at the front desk of the store. The store assistant who had greeted Xu Feng and Erlang with strange eyes—Xu Feng had forgotten to remove his cover-up—now had a wide grin on his face.

There was so much knowledge to be uncovered, and Xu Feng was eager to explore these literary treasures. He combed through the shelves, selecting books that he believed might be helpful for his quest for information.

Erlang, despite his desire to assist, was unable to read, so Xu Feng gave him a separate task. He sent Erlang to buy bones, with a promise to remain in the store. This new bookstore, however, seemed more accustomed to accommodating customers with spending power, and Xu Feng felt safe enough.

He was a big man, what did he have to be scared of in a bookstore?

While Erlang was conflicted, Xu Feng didn’t see the point in the boy being so protective of him. Even if Xuan Yang asked him to trail him, what did they think would happen to him? Was he such a troublemaker?

Xu Feng didn’t know whether to laugh or be annoyed. If he wanted to stay, he could stay. The bones were for him anyway.

As Xu Feng was submerged into the world of books, a self-assured young mistress, flanked by a small entourage, entered the store with a clear purpose in mind – to collect a new ink and quill set that had been reserved for him. Xu Feng too focused on finding more hidden treasures paid them no mind.

The bookstore was not a library, and Xu Feng knew better than to expect complete silence. There were other patrons in the store, some engaged in controlled conversations, while others examined the shelves in search.

Unfortunately, the young masters accompanying the young mistress were far from reserved or discreet. One of them continued to make sly side glances in Xu Feng’s direction, his gaze lingering on him with his disguise removed, causing Xu Feng to feel exposed.

He should have kept it on until Xuan Yang and Xuan Jian were back in sight.