"Let me pour you another cup."
Old Xu took the Waterman's cup and poured the clear water inside out onto the ground.
The Waterman stared blankly as the water seeped into the courtyard soil, seemingly wanting to take it back, yet feeling helpless.
Old Xu picked up the teapot and refilled the Waterman's cup.
Black tea leaves rushed from the spout into the cup, swirling in the water for a moment before settling at the bottom.
The Waterman said nothing, simply watching the scalding tea.
It seemed to understand now.
As Old Xu poured, he said softly, "You can't have tea without tea leaves. It's those dregs, as ugly as they look, that make the tea rich, fragrant, and flavorful."
Listening to Old Xu's meaningful words, the Waterman nodded lightly.
It, a former god, was now like an obedient student, listening to Old Xu's lesson.
"No one has ever taught me this before."
