The Emperor gestured toward the cushions, his long sleeves flowing gracefully. “Please, have a seat.”
“Thank you, Your Majesty,” Hua Ren said, gracefully lowering himself onto the cushion.
The Emperor seated himself across from him, reaching for a porcelain teapot. He poured the steaming liquid into two delicate cups, the scent of jasmine and herbs wafting between them. “It is Bi Luo Chun,” the Emperor said, his voice smooth. “I heard it’s your favorite.”
Hua Ren offered a polite smile, lifting the cup to his lips. The tea was pleasant, but it wasn’t his favorite. He wondered where the Emperor had gotten his information from.
The Emperor leaned forward slightly, his sharp gaze locking onto Hua Ren. “So, I believe you’ve had more than enough time to think about my proposal, right, Hua Ren?”