"Your Majesty, His Majesty the Emperor has arrived," Xiaoyue announced, her tone laced with excitement.
Lili's heart skipped a beat, but she maintained her composure, rising gracefully. "Prepare tea and snacks for His Majesty," she instructed, smoothing her dress. "I will receive him in the main hall."
As she stepped into the main hall, her eyes immediately found the emperor standing tall and imposing in the doorway. His dragon-embroidered robes glimmered faintly in the fading light, and his piercing gaze softened ever so slightly when it met hers.
"Your Majesty," Lili greeted, lowering herself into a deep curtsy. "This humble wife welcomes you to her pavilion."
The emperor took a step forward, his lips curving into a faint smile. "Rise, my queen. There's no need for such formality between us."
