[ Clasping his hands behind his back, Neuvillette watches in silence as the other man prepares the tea, carrying out each step with meticulous attention to detail. Like how he doesn't allow the water to reach its boiling point; it brings to mind a conversation he had with Wriothesley some months ago. Wriothesley had explained the importance of brewing tea at the correct temperature, as too hot water risks scalding the delicate leaves, resulting in an unpleasantly bitter cup. On the other hand, if the water is too cold then you end up with an insipid cup of vaguely tea-flavored water.
It really is a fascinating process that goes far beyond just steeping tea leaves in hot water, he thinks to himself as Zhongli moves on to swirl the water he'd just poured into the cups. He makes a mental note to pass this part to Wriothesley next time they meet; he doesn't understand the importance of this step, but his friend might appreciate it nonetheless and start doing the same. ]
Thank you kindly, Monsieur. [ Taking the cup, the Iudex wraps his fingers around the handle and brings it to his mouth, watching the ripples chase across the surface when he blows on it before taking his first sip. The liquid coats his tongue and he closes his eyes for a moment to properly assess the taste. He definitely prefers water without the addition of leaves, but he does enjoy a good cup of tea as well. ]
It has a refreshing and smooth flavor, as though you've captured the essence of spring in a cup. The crispness of the water plays nicely against the tea, elevating the overall flavor profile.
venti, probably: he's your problem now, old man
It really is a fascinating process that goes far beyond just steeping tea leaves in hot water, he thinks to himself as Zhongli moves on to swirl the water he'd just poured into the cups. He makes a mental note to pass this part to Wriothesley next time they meet; he doesn't understand the importance of this step, but his friend might appreciate it nonetheless and start doing the same. ]
Thank you kindly, Monsieur. [ Taking the cup, the Iudex wraps his fingers around the handle and brings it to his mouth, watching the ripples chase across the surface when he blows on it before taking his first sip. The liquid coats his tongue and he closes his eyes for a moment to properly assess the taste. He definitely prefers water without the addition of leaves, but he does enjoy a good cup of tea as well. ]
It has a refreshing and smooth flavor, as though you've captured the essence of spring in a cup. The crispness of the water plays nicely against the tea, elevating the overall flavor profile.