Chapter 85: The Half-Elf
The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the Ambrose estate as Grim sat in the study. The shadows were begining to expand as night drew closer. His body still ached from yesterday’s exertion, the mana depletion leaving him weaker than he cared to admit. Chen Xing was nearby, making sure he didn’t go overboard.
The study itself was a testament to the Ambrose family legacy. Bookshelves lined the walls, filled with ancient tomes on swordsmanship and mana theory. Above the marble fireplace hung a large portrait of Caius Van Ambrose in his prime.A tall, imposing figure with piercing eyes. His hand rested on a silver sword that could only be Luna. Smaller portraits were around the large portrait. Showing Caius in various settings: addressing troops, in formal court attire, and one showing him training a young man who must have been Grim’s grandfather.
"You’re pushing yourself too hard," Chen Xing said without looking up from his work. "Luna draws far more mana than Echo. You need more time to recover."
Grim scowled. "There is no time. The semifinals are tomorrow."
"And you’ll be no use if you collapse in the arena," Chen Xing countered, his tone was very stern. "What good is all this training if you burn yourself out before facing Julius’s son?"
Their quiet argument was interrupted when Sera knocked lightly on the open door.
"My lord," she said with a small bow, "Lady Huangyan is at the gate."
Grim exchanged a glance with Chen Xing, "Looks like she accepted my invitation."
Afte a minute, the sound of footsteps in the hallway announced Sera’s return with their visitor. Grim turned from the window to see his guest.