Stars Waited Above Empty Streets by Lorin Wren 83

Chapter 83 Treasures of Tradition 

Finished 

“Fortunately,” Asnio continued, “the literary and arts world has produced an extraordinary successor recently. You know Tylissa, don’t you? She’s your age–remarkably gifted, versatile, and even able to decipher the ancient Terran language. Truly impressive. 

Hearing Tylissa’s name again didn’t surprise Ava. The ‘talented lady‘ was famed as a prodigy throughout the interstellar realm. Backed by a powerful family and renown across the galaxy, her legacy was certain. 

At the mention of Tylissa, Jane rolled her eyes discreetly 

Behind Austin, the android carried out a large box and placed it in the center of the living room. Austin unlocked it with a key and called out, “Ava, come take a look. Choose the colors and patterns you like.” 

“This stack is mostly muted tones,” he said, drawing out bolt after bolt of fabric. “Some feature subtle woven patterns, others are jacquard, some use ancient dyeing techniques, and some are pure silk. 

“I once loved crafting silk dresses and created many in my early years. But young people now avoid wearing them. This craft likely won’t endure much longer.” 

As he spoke, nostalgia colored his expression. “What a pity.” 

Ava inspected the fabrics. Though her understanding of textiles was basic, their sheen alone signaled superb quality. Anything chosen for Austin’s private collection was far from ordinary. 

“Mr. Mett, this is simply too precious. I can’t accept it–these are your keepsakes,” Ava declined politely. 

Austin smiled warmly. “If I give them to you, they’re yours. Left with me, they’re lifeless objects. No one in my family wants my craft. When I’m gone, these will be junk to the next generation. Sharing them with you brings me joy.” 

Ava’s lips trembled slightly. Seeing the light in the old man’s eyes as he gently touched the fabrics, she couldn’t bring herself to refuse any longer. 

“Then I’ll accept with gratitude,” she said softly. 

Austin laughed. “I’m not entirely selfless. I hope you’ll help our museum by taking some promotional photos. Displayed with our treasures, these show inherited artifacts aren’t relics, but witnesses to our civilization.” 

Jane quietly tightened her grip on her sister’s hand, signaling her not to agree. For families like theirs, there was no need for this sort of exchange. Clean transactions were always better than owing favors. 

Ava regarded the elderly man. His sincerity was plain. To some, the request might seem abrupt, but she sensed his genuine motives. He spoke openly, without pretense. Sometimes honesty was the most convincing force of all. 

“If the museum needs it, I’m willing,” Ava replied. 

Jane hadn’t expected her to agree so readily. The words he’d been about to say stuck in her throat. No matter how she thought about it, she couldn’t understand how Ava agreed so easily. 

Gerard, who had been watching their subtle exchanges, gently squeezed his fiancée’s hand to reassure her. 

Austin looked embarrassed. “Ms. Morren, I admit I was presumptuous. Your generosity makes my request 

seem small.” 

13:22 Sat, Jan 10 G3. 

Chapter 83 Treasures of Tradition 

44% 

Finished 

“Mr. Mett, you’re too polite,” Ava replied. “I also love our traditional culture. If I can contribute even a little to preserving these fading crafts and help more young people understand and embrace their own culture, I believe that’s something any citizen would be willing to lo. I only hope I won’t disappoint you.” 

Austin sighed deeply. “Young people like you are truly rare these days.” 

They began sorting through the fabrics. As they worked Austin described each material and shared the history behind the silk dress. 

Ava had always liked traditional robes, but this was her first chance to try a silk dress. It was an exciting opportunity. 

The elder and the young woman chatted like old friends. Their easy conversation left little room for others to join. 

Asnio watched with quiet pride and a flicker of regret. Years ago, Austin had offered to teach him this craft, but he declined, uninterested. 

Not only had Austin not taken offense, but he had even written letters of recommendation for Asnio, allowing him to study under another mentor and eventually enter the fashion world. 

The more Austin engaged with Ava, the livelier he became, eager to share his every secret. But the moment wasn’t right. 

Carried along by his enthusiasm, Ava picked two: a green jacquard with subtle patterns and a pale lavender with fluttering butterflies. She stopped him quickly. Otherwise, judging by his passion, he might have handed her everything. 

Send Gifts 

174 

13:22 Sat, Jan 10