"Greetings, Your Majesty!"
With a warm genuine smile plastered on his face, the Emperor stepped forward and personally helped Magistrate Sai rise to his feet using both hands in an unusually familiar gesture.
"There is no need for such a formal ceremony between us, you don't have to bow down to me when meeting in private."
Magistrate Sai didn't dare to comply, he still respectfully bowed to the Emperor while speaking somewhat cautiously, choosing his words with care.
"Your Majesty, I have traveled here today to humbly request Your Majesty's gracious permission to address an important matter that weighs heavily on my mind."
The Emperor listened while feeling curious about the nature of this late night request.
"Please speak freely and openly without fear. As long as your request lies within my power to grant, I will absolutely never refuse you for your loyal service."
