Vita did not immediately answer Shawn's question. Instead, she gestured gracefully.
"There's no hurry. I have plenty of time to explain everything. Come, have some tea first.
"The tea has just cooled to the perfect drinking temperature. This is green tea from France, with sugar cubes and fresh mint leaves added. It's wonderfully fragrant and calming."
Shawn paused and looked at the cup Vita had poured and set before him earlier. The pale green tea inside was no longer steaming.
This was a tea meant to be served cool, and Vita had timed its cooling perfectly.
Shawn inwardly tensed. Her control over the pace reminded him of Flitwick, and his estimate of her abilities rose by another order of magnitude.
He lifted the cup from its saucer and sniffed it. Beyond the tea's distinctive aroma, there was indeed a refreshing hint of mint.
He took a small sip. Hmm? Slightly sweet with a touch of bitterness. A very delicate flavor.
It was different from both the bitter tea he usually drank and the Old Beekeeper's sweet drinks.
He wondered whether there was some meaning behind it.
Vita truly understood Shawn. Seeing his thoughtful expression, she spoke at just the right moment.
"Don't overthink it. Drinking tea is just drinking tea, nothing more than quenching your thirst and refreshing yourself. There's no symbolism or special significance to it."
Shawn choked slightly, set down his cup, and gave Vita a speechless look.
No special significance? Who was she trying to fool? Ask Dumbledore whether he agreed!
Vita pushed over another cup of freshly brewed black tea and some delicate pastries, her voice warm and patient.
"There really is no special meaning. You're wound far too tight and need to relax. This tea helps relieve nervous fatigue.
"I know you're wary of me,