Two years ago, days before Maximus' arrival in the imperial palace, Isaiah received an invitation from the empress to discuss the matters regarding the ongoing road construction that would shorten the travel time to the north. As a subject and an imperial family's strongest supporter, Isaiah had no reason to refuse the invitation.
Hence, here he was, sitting in the pavilion in the Rose Palace's beautiful garden. Across from him was the ever so elegant empress, offering him the tea she brewed herself.
"Thank you for granting my invitation, Your Grace." Isaiah kept his eyes on Aries across from him. "Before anything else, I would like to offer you a cup of tea that I usually enjoy myself."
Isaiah gazed down at the black tea which she put milk and sugar in it.
"Don't worry. This is not poisoned," Aries humored, making him gaze up at her.
