Chapter 103: House Ambrose
Three days passed swiftly, filled with meetings, plans, and steady recovery. By the morning of the imperial court session, Grim had regained much of his strength.
He stood before the mirror in his chambers, examining his reflection. Most nobles would attend court in ornate garments of rich colors, adorned with gold thread and gemstones—visual representations of their wealth and status. Grim had chosen a different path.
His outer robes were pure white, crisp and immaculate, falling to just below his knees. Beneath them, he wore a fitted black tunic and trousers, creating a stark contrast. The only ornamentation was the Ambrose family crest embroidered on the back of the white robe—a silver crescent moon partially encircling a mist-wreathed mountain. Echo hung at his side, its unadorned scabbard belying the blade’s true nature.
"An unusual choice, my lord," Sera observed as she entered with a final message from Chen Xing regarding the day’s arrangements.
"The Ambrose colors have always been red and blue," Grim replied. "Today is a new day. The new colors I have on are in memory of my grandfather. These will be the new colors and crest starting today."
"It will certainly make an impression," she acknowledged, handing him the message. "The carriage is ready whenever you are."
Grim nodded, scanning Chen Xing’s precise handwriting. All arrangements were in place. Huangyan would accompany him as his knight, while Chen Xing would remain at the manor to oversee the arrival of Orvannis’s soldiers.
[You’re playing a dangerous game today,] the voice commented as Grim descended to the entrance hall.
"Every game with worthwhile stakes is dangerous," Grim murmured.
[True enough. But court appearances have ended poorly for House Ambrose in the past.]
"History doesn’t always repeat itself."