Chapter 39: No Apologies Necessary
The imperial guards led Grim and the others through a series of corridors, away from the main ballroom.
They arrived at a small chamber with a round table at its center. The room was clearly designed for private discussions, with thick walls and no windows. The Empress was already seated when they entered, Princess Liona standing dutifully behind her mother's chair.
"I see the evening has taken an unexpected turn," the Empress said as they filed in. Her tone was neutral, but her eyes sparkled with interest as they settled on Grim. "Please, be seated."
Grim sat between his father and General Yongrun. The elderly man positioned himself directly across from the Empress.
"Your Majesty," Rowan began, "I must apologize for—"
The Empress waved her hand dismissively. "No apologies necessary, Lord Ambrose. In fact, I find myself rather... pleased with the development."
"Pleased?" Rowan's confusion was evident.
"Indeed." The Empress turned her attention to Grim. "You've been learning Caius's techniques. The Aurora Flash and Sundering Slash. Both techniques executed with remarkable skill for one so young."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Grim replied, maintaining his usual bluntness even in imperial company.
"Tell me, how much of Caius's scroll have you mastered?"
Before Grim could answer, General Yongrun spoke. "He has begun the basics of two techniques. Mastery is still distant."