Chapter 41 – The Dwarf and the Deal

The main hall buzzed with tension as Qingsai entered, his wives following.

Seated comfortably on a high-backed chair—legs barely reaching the edge—was a dwarf with a goblet in one hand and wit in his eyes.

He stood, bowed flamboyantly, and declared, "Allow me to introduce myself! Fengrui Yuwen of House Fengrui, Chunsi's younger brother. Yes, I know I'm adorable, and yes, I drink more than I should."

Chunsi covered her face, mortified.

> "He's… my little brother."

> "Little, but clever," Yuwen winked. "And I'm here to make myself useful, since my father dumped me in the capital and said I'd only ever be good for gossip and gambling."

Qingsai smiled faintly. "You'll fit in fine."

But it was the other guest who commanded more immediate attention.

Lord Lujin Baoshi, tall and bearded, dressed in gray and purple silks, stepped forward.

> "Lord Yuncao," he said with a bow, "I come bearing loyalty—and a proposition."

Behind him stepped a young woman with long pink hair, glowing purple eyes, and a curvy figure veiled in lace and silk.

> "This is my daughter, Lady Meilian Baoshi. I offer her hand in marriage, should you accept House Baoshi's support—resources, men, wealth, loyalty. All for your cause, whatever it may be."

All eyes turned to Qingsai. His expression gave nothing away.

He turned to Meilian, who leaned forward and gave him a seductive smile.

> "Hi, husband~" she whispered. "I bite. But I also purr."

Meiyan choked on her tea. Lianhua turned beet red. Chunsi froze.

Qingsai exhaled, deeply.

> "Lady Meilian… are you aware of what this alliance means?"

She twirled her pink locks. "Of course. I get to tease you every morning, bathe in your light, and maybe help save the world in between kisses."

Lucen whispered, "She's dangerous. But useful."

Qingsai stepped forward and extended his hand.

> "Then I accept."