Chapter 117
Chapter 117:
“Since you’re so eager for a demonstration, I suppose I could brew some tea for you.” She tilted her head slightly, her tone light but firm. “I hope you’ll watch carefully. And perhaps, afterward, you might even share something with us all.” Her words were gracious.
Without waiting for a response, Yelena moved into action, her steps graceful and deliberate. She calmly turned on the electric kettle, pouring spring water into it with practiced precision. As the water heated, she began to explain, her voice even and confident.
“There are generally seven steps to brewing tea,” she said, capturing the attention of the room. “The first step is to warm the teapot and the cups p>
By preheating them with hot water, you prevent cracking from sudden temperature changes and ensure the tea’s aroma and flavor are fully enhanced.” She moved seamlessly to the next step, adding tea leaves into the brewer. “The second step is adding the tea. The amount should be adjusted to taste. Today, I’m using fresh green tea, known for its bright, delicate notes p>
As the water reached the right temperature, Yelena continued. “The third step is blooming. This step allows the hot water to awaken the tea, releasing the initial flavors. It should be quick and precise—the water is poured swiftly, and excess is removed immediately p>
With a graceful motion, Yelena began the brewing process. “The fourth step is brewing. This is where control matters most. Both the water temperature and brewing time must be carefully managed to avoid compromising the taste. If you pay attention, you’ll already begin to smell the tea’s rich aroma p>
The kettle was set aside as Yelena prepared for the next phase. “The fifth step is the pour. Once brewed, the tea must be poured into a serving pot promptly to prevent over-extraction, which can lead to bitterness p>
She took the serving pot and began filling small teacups with deliberate care. “The sixth step is serving. Cups shouldn’t be filled to the brim, which allows room for the aroma to linger in the cup. Pour gently to preserve the tea’s essence p>
𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲 ⬇ gⲁ𝗅𝗇𝗈ν𝖊𝗅𝘀⫽𝓬𝓸𝓶
Finally, Yelena took a cup herself, lifting it with poise. “And the last step is tasting. Before drinking, inhale the aroma to appreciate the bouquet. Then take a sip, letting the flavors unfold on your palate p>
Each step had been executed flawlessly, without the slightest hesitation. By the time she finished, the room was filled with the rich, inviting aroma of freshly brewed tea. She then poured a cup for everyone. The crowd took their cups, tasting the tea with newfound appreciation. The reactions were immediate and effusive.
“This is absolutely masterful p>
“Indeed! It’s far more delicate and refined than what we ever had. The aroma lingers beautifully p>
“Truly remarkable. It’s the kind of tea that leaves you wanting more p>
The room buzzed with praises.
Sonya’s face shifted through an array of unflattering shades, from pale to crimson. A heavy weight seemed to press down on her chest, making it hard to breathe. The confidence with which she had challenged Yelena earlier now felt like a slap in her own face. How was Yelena so skilled at brewing tea?
Sonya’s mind raced, her frustration mounting. Her parents certainly hadn’t taught Yelena anything about tea—Sonya was sure of that. They didn’t even know much about it themselves. And as for Sonya, she’d only learned the basics earlier today. The discrepancy was maddening.