Tea And Snakes

On closer inspection, Athena quickly realized the cup she had drunk from was not made in Serpentine. It had no handle and looked nothing like the cups she was used to here. 

It was reminiscent of the cups used in the Qin Empire, where Zicheng was from. 

"Keen observation, princess. I carry tea leaves and some hot water with me at all times. I keep them in this container which I carry with me," He explained as he showed her a flask-shaped object that hung from his waist. 

He was wearing traditional Qin Empire garments, long flowing fabrics, just like the first time they met. However this time, the fabrics were more luxurious. 

His belt, which was usually a cloth sash, was replaced with a sturdier one made out of leather. From it, the flask hung off a knotted braid. 

"That is genius!" Athena exclaimed, "May I take a closer look?" 

"Of course," Zicheng replied as he removed it from his belt.