[ The pause that follows Zhongli's question is almost long enough that one might think he's not going to answer, but not quite. He considers politely declining by saying he still has paperwork to go over (not a lie; earlier today he received a document from someone within the Palais about expensing a single key cap that he has yet to properly look over) because the less time spent in the presence of one of the usurpers, the better. But as one of the Seven Sovereigns, it's his sworn duty to pass judgment on the Archons in the (highly unlikely) scenario of his elemental authority one day being returned to its rightful owner. A fair judgment cannot be rendered in haste or if the judge is moved by bitterness or anger—he must first rid himself of the taint of preconceived notions and get to know the usurpers better to properly understand their character and learn if they share his views regarding the Heavenly Principles. ]

Certainly, Monsieur Zhongli. [ He replies, nodding his head.

And with that, the two of them leave the Palais Mermonia and make their way over to the restaurant inside the hotel where a waiter directs them to a somewhat secluded area in the back of the room, behind some potted ferns that will offer some degree of privacy from fellow guests who may be interested in the Chief Justice's conversation. Neuvillette reaches back to push his long hair aside so he doesn't sit on it as he takes a seat in the chair across from Zhongli, then plucks one of the two copies of the menu from the wooden holder at the center of the table. As he peruses the list of beverages, he frowns a little. ]

...They've significantly altered the menu since my last visit twenty years ago, but it still does not specify where their water is sourced from.

[ It just says "water" and "sparkling water" which is not helpful at all to a connoisseur. Why do so many restaurants omit this information? ]