Chapter 205: The Imperial Party
"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."
As the afternoon progressed, the manor grounds continued to fill with arriving guests. Each delegation brought its own servants, guards, and diplomatic entourages, creating a bustling temporary city around the Ambrose estate. The scale of the event had grown beyond anything Grim had initially envisioned.
"The evening’s schedule?" he asked, returning to his desk to review the formal program.
"Cocktails and initial mingling beginning at sunset," Chen Xing replied. "Formal dinner service with assigned seating to facilitate strategic conversations. Entertainment featuring performers from multiple cultures, followed by dancing and more casual social interaction."
"And tomorrow?"
"Private audiences with interested families, assuming you wish to pursue formal negotiations with any of tonight’s candidates. The foreign delegations have indicated they’re prepared to remain for several days if serious discussions develop."