Before entering the Monarch's Reception Hall, Alpharius stopped and spoke in the manner of an Astartes.
"Emperor, Primarch, I should not take part in your conversation."
"I will stand guard outside and prevent anyone from disturbing you."
The corner of Nimrod's mouth twitched almost imperceptibly. He said nothing and allowed Alpharius to continue his performance.
He sent a message to Howard and the others who were hurrying over. "I have matters to discuss with an honored guest. Go attend to your own duties."
Then Nimrod and the Emperor of Mankind entered the Monarch's Reception Hall. Alpharius stood at the door with spear in hand, like a loyal guard.
Howard and the others, having received the message, were filled with doubt. The moment they saw the man in golden robes, their minds had gone blank. They had not heard the conversation between the two and had no idea what had happened.
Now that they had received the Monarch's message and found a giant blocking their path, they could only leave with their questions unanswered.
Inside the Monarch's Reception Hall, Nimrod picked up the teapot and poured tea for the Old Man in Yellow and himself.
"Black tea from the Cradle of the Sea. Please, have a taste."
The Emperor of Mankind lifted the golden teacup and took a sip. A faintly pleased expression appeared on his face.
"Bergamot at the opening, wild berries in the middle, cedarwood at the finish."
"Not bad. I've never had black tea of such quality."
It had been grown by a Cultivator. Ordinary people naturally could not produce tea of this quality.
As Nimrod was thinking this, he suddenly felt his spirituality become a little more active, as though something within him had melted.
[This... is clear feedback. The Briber potion has digested a little.]
A