Alessandro Baricco: sipping tea Found a scroll in Kyoto. Ancient techniques, silkworm secrets.
A woman he had met in Kyoto Oh my, I hope you don’t mind a friend of mine and I are intrigued by your study
smiling warmly I'd be happy to share with you both. unrolls the scroll
narrating passionately It's said that sericulture, the process of cultivating silkworms, was first practiced in ancient China. But here, in Japan, they've refined it to an art form.
she listens intently how so?
gesturing animatedly In Japan, they've developed specialized breeds of silkworms that produce higher-quality silk.
grabs a small magnifying glass Look at these markings on the cocoons, they're extraordinary.
points to specific cocoons These ones are the result of careful breeding.
pulls out a notebook and pen I've been taking notes and documenting the progress of my own silkworm colony.
the woman nods her head oh that’s smart… I hope they breed well
stands up Would you like to see my silkworm colony in action?
she nods eagerly yes please!
leads CrystalLagoon and the woman to his greenhouse This way, follow me. opens the glass door
they enter the greenhouse oh my god this is amazing…
Inside the greenhouse, Alessandro introduces CrystalLagoon and the woman to his assistant who helps maintain the silkworm colony. They observe the different stages of the silkworms' life cycle and learn about the importance of proper feeding and climate control.
they smile thanks for letting us come here
gestures towards the shelves I also have various books on sericulture and silkworm breeding if you'd like to read up on the subject.
the woman and he pick one each and start reading
smiling I'm glad you both enjoy learning about silkworms. It's a fascinating world, really. glances at his watch
the woman looks up yes it is… are you busy tomorrow
pauses for a moment, considering Tomorrow? Well, I do have an appointment with a potential client, but I could make time for you.
the woman looks excited yay
smiles warmly Wonderful! I'll make sure to schedule something special for our next adventure. reaches into his pocket