"My lord," Violet interjected quietly, "should I prepare additional refreshments for guests with... unusual dietary requirements?"
"Chen Xing will coordinate with the kitchen staff," Grim replied, appreciating her attention to details. "But yes, ensure we can accommodate whatever our guests need."
The sound of horns echoed across the grounds, announcing the arrival of another delegation. Chen Xing moved to the window to observe, consulting his list of expected arrivals.
"The Merchant Guild Consortium," he announced. "They're primarily interested in trade agreements, but several have unmarried daughters of appropriate age."
"Politically motivated matches," Grim observed.
"All marriages among nobility are politically motivated to some degree," Chen Xing replied pragmatically. "The question is whether the political benefits align with personal compatibility and genuine affection."
