At the eastern end of Chang’an’s East Market lies a quiet alley called Huai’an Lane. At the end of it stands a shabby three-story building, its signboard hanging crookedly above the door with three words painted on it: Floating Life House.
It looks like a teahouse, but in truth, it is the only place in the world where people can “lay their obsessions to rest.” If you have an obsession you cannot let go of and can afford the price, the master of Floating Life House can grant your wish.
The master, Shen Yinghan, wears plain white robes and has a red cinnabar mole between her brows. She has lived for three thousand years. She has seen all the joys and sorrows of the human world, yet never gives her heart easily. At her side is a divine Bai Ze beast who has taken human form, cold and taciturn but utterly devoted to her; a talkative koi spirit; and a roguish ghost storyteller.
Those who come to Floating Life House have all kinds of wishes. Some want to see their deceased wives one more time. Some want to forget a love that cut too deep. Some want to make amends for mistakes they made in their youth. Some want to say they’re sorry to someone they’ll never see again…
Behind every obsession lies a story that can bring you to tears.
With eyes that have seen three thousand years, she will watch you calmly, then ask in a soft voice
“I understand your obsession. So, where shall I begin your story?”
This is a story about obsession and letting go, about meeting and parting.
It will make you laugh through your tears, and ache even as it warms your heart.
If there’s someone you can’t let go of, step inside Floating Life House.
But remember: those who enter are never asked where they came from, and those who leave must never look back.
