I ladled a small amount of hot water into the bowl, then carefully set the ladle back across the kettle’s mouth, mindful of my movements. Shugo sat nearby, crosslegged as he leaned against an upholstered, laquered bench to watch. I picked up the bamboo whisk, working with a smooth, steady motion until the tea was a rich green froth. Shugo inclined his head as I set the bowl before him. “I apologize that it is not warrior’s tea, my lord,” I murmured.

“Bah. Warrior’s tea is pretentious and dull. Women’s tea is graceful and fluid. I much prefer it.” He grinned at me, picking up the bowl and lifting it briefly in a gesture of thanks. I bowed low, waiting for him to drink as I kept my gaze focused on the polished floor.

“Sit up, Jin. It’s just us in here.”

“And thus, I have not put up my curtains,” I replied, glancing up with a smirk. “It’s most improper you can see any more of me than my sleeves, my lord.”

“As if you were ever proper.” He grinned, downing his tea, and returned the bowl. “Make another.”