* * *
“We pay our respects to Your Majesty.”
Hwayeong and Seonhwa bowed in unison as they stepped into the tea room of Hwamun Lodge.
The Empress graciously motioned for them to sit.
“Go on, have a seat.”
At her calm command, they took their places across from her.
A court lady set down two jade-green cups, soon filling them with lotus tea that gave off a faint, soothing fragrance.
Hwayeong looked down at her cup, her expression softening at the gentle warmth and floral scent.
The court lady quietly exited the room, leaving the tea room in silence.
Then, the Empress spoke, her voice measured.
“You’ve probably guessed why I called you here. I want to put the last incident to rest once and for all.”
As expected. The two waited quietly for her to continue.
She sipped her tea, then went on at a leisurely pace.
