"Duke Qinghui is so considerate of his people. If I were one of the Purity People, I'd be moved to tears."
Luyetan, her slender fingers clad in long white gloves, traced the rim of her teacup as her voice rose in pitch.
"It almost makes me want to forgive the entire debt. A toast to our friendship."
Westheid: "That would be wonderful."
Unfortunately, Luyetan immediately followed up with a smile and a shake of her head. She propped her delicate, snow-white chin on both hands and said:
"However… I, too, am a Branch of Prosperity. I have a responsibility to the people of Yuanshi Territory. After spending so much money, I must have something to show for it. I can't just squander the wealth of Yuanshi Territory for a fleeting word like 'friendship.' How would I ever explain that to my people?"
Westheid: "..."
'Seriously? We're both Branches of Prosperity, so why are you acting so clueless with me?'
