Reborn as the Last van Ambrose

The financial manager’s complexion now shifted from pale to flushed. When he spoke again, his voice had lost its professionalism. "The settlement amount you proposed seems reasonable upon reflection. Thirty-two thousand crowns for full release of all obligations."

"I’m pleased we could reach an understanding," Grim said, producing a draft for the agreed amount from inside his coat. "I’ve taken the liberty of preparing the payment in advance."

Blackwell examined the draft, then unlocked a drawer to retrieve formal documentation. "I’ll prepare the release immediately. Will you require anything else, Lord Ambrose?"

"Two additional items," Grim specified. "First, written confirmation that the original forge and equipment remain Silverscale’s private property. Second, a personal assurance that you will explain this settlement to Lord Luminaris in a way that discourages any... repercussions."

The implication was clear—if Julius retaliated against the Silverscales, Grim would consider it evidence that Blackwell had failed to properly do his job.

"Both reasonable requests," Blackwell agreed, now clearly eager to conclude their business. "I’ll include the property release with the debt settlement documentation. And I assure you, Lord Luminaris will understand that further pursuit of this matter would be inadvisable."

Whether this last promise would be kept remained questionable, but Grim had achieved his primary objective. Within the hour, he departed Blackwell’s office with formal documentation releasing Korin Silverscale from all obligations to House Luminaris.

The half-dragon and his wife would be free to depart the mining district without fear of legal repercussions. Of course, legal barriers weren’t the only kind Julius might employ once he learned of Korin’s departure—but by then, they would be out of his reach.

------------------------------------------------------------------