Long time no see, indeed.
The last time they spoke to each other, Liu Wenyuan sabotaged Xie Jianyu's costume in a clear attempt to embarrass him during the Winter Solstice celebration.
Xie Jianyu unwittingly tightened his grip around Wangshu's reins.
On the other hand, Xie Jianyu had also been spending too much time by Zhang Fengxi's side. As Zhang Fengxi's betrothed partner, it was normal for Liu Wenyuan to perceive Xie Jianyu as a threat.
What with the rumor about Zhang Fengxi liking fellow alphas spreading around...
Liu Wenyuan lowered his gaze to the ground. Minding the gap of status between them, he performed a curtsy before Xie Jianyu.
"I have yet to personally thank Your Majesty for rescuing me from the First Demon King's lair."
"No need to thank me," Xie Jianyu answered briskly. "It was a task given to me by the Heavenly Emperor."