Li Yan and Cha Xiaodao arrived at the port and were guests on the Tea Horse Department ship for only a short while when a slightly effeminate voice drifted in from afar.
"The servants are ignorant and haven't prepared tea for the guest who has come to visit. I hope Governor Li won't take offense."
Chai Xuan had changed into a refreshing set of cloud-patterned silk underwear and donned a crimson robe, a white silk belt, and a purple brocade sash with carved flowers, a blue silk net hanging below, and a silver-gilt ribbon ring. He was still clutching a warm jade snuff bottle when he entered the room.
Seeing Chai Xuan fully dressed and swaying with every third step, Li Yan stood up and greeted him with a clasped fist: "Lord Li Yan from the Left Bureau of the Daning Guard, I've come to meet Lord Supervisor."
The Tea Horse Department Supervisor held a fifth-rank official position, a rank equal to that of the Left Bureau Governor.
