Xiao Fan in Hand, the Contest Already Won; Li Xian the Little Thief, a Turtle in a Jar

Wen Caishang said softly, "Xiao Tuan, escort City Lord He into the pavilion and have him seated. Let him wait a moment while I make myself presentable." She stepped toward the bedroom, her sleeves fluttering, leaving behind only a fragrant breeze.

The pavilion's scenery was delightful, as though it were spring. Water mist drifted through the air. A waterfall spilled down from the second floor, vines intertwined, and flowers and grasses vied for spring, all arranged with exquisite care.

He Wentian wore a genial smile and brocade robes. His square face was refined and handsome as he surveyed the pavilion, unable to contain his admiration. "Madam Wang truly is an extraordinary woman! There is great ingenuity in this pavilion's layout."

Xiao Tuan said, "My madam has always loved beauty. Since she is going to meet Master Fu, she dared not be careless, so she put some thought into dressing up. I hope City Lord He will not blame her."

City Lord He laughed. "The second greatest blessing for a man in this world is waiting for a woman to adorn herself. It is my honor—how could I blame her?"

Xiao Tuan asked curiously, "If there is a second greatest blessing, then there must be a first. City Lord He, what is the greatest blessing?" She was still young, and her words were innocent and blunt.

City Lord He burst into laughter. "Naturally, it is when a woman dresses herself especially for him." Xiao Tuan said, "Then wouldn't City Lord He be greatly blessed every day? You have so many wives and concubines, all beautiful as flowers, dignified and proper. Every one of them waits for your favor."

City Lord He said, "Hahaha, I suppose so. You are so young, yet you understand quite a lot." He sat in a stone