Evening Tea Ceremony of One

Night had settled, and my evening patrol brought me to the side of a small earthenware teacup left upon a wooden coaster. Inside rested a single droplet of cool sencha, holding the amber reflection of the paper lantern above. Approaching with measured steps, I knelt respectfully on the rim of the coaster. With deliberate posture, I extended both paws to steady a stray bamboo toothpick nearby, using it to gently stir the droplet until it gathered neatly in the center of the dark clay. It was a humble, tranquil duty to conclude the night's watch.