"Envoy Mao, please have a seat."
In the overly simple courtyard, Mao Aowu stood stiffly by the door, unable to decide whether he should step forward or retreat, kneel or clasp his fists. Is this really happening? Could it be some sort of illusion? Mao Aowu glanced at the elder in the courtyard and then turned his head to look at the Benevolent Emperor Pavilion Master playing chess under the nearby tree—the most powerful person he had had the privilege of meeting so far. His Majesty the Human Emperor inviting him for a simple meal… It was just like a dream!
"What are you standing there for?"
The amiable and friendly Human Emperor, who combined the dignity of an emperor, the air of a top expert, and the image of a kind old neighbor, was smiling and beckoning him to come and sit.
