Chapter 206: Húli jīng.
"Your Imperial Majesty," Grim said, offering the deepest bow protocol required., "You honor House Ambrose with your presence."
"Lord Ambrose," Alexia replied with formal warmth. "Your family’s restoration brings honor to the Empire. We are pleased to celebrate this milestone with you."
Princess Liona’s greeting was more personal, though still appropriate for the public setting. "Lord Grim, congratulations on your eighteenth birthday. The capital has been buzzing with excitement about tonight’s celebration."
"Your Highness is too kind," Grim replied, noting how her presence immediately altered the social dynamics in the room. Other families were clearly recalculating their strategies based on the obvious imperial favor.
As the imperial party moved to their designated positions, the herald continued with announcements of increasing significance.
"Master Chen Wei of the Southern Merchant Consortium, Lady Chen Wei, and Miss Chen Lily!"
"Lord Commander Harrison of the Western Military District, Lady Harrison, and Miss Emily Harrison!"
Each arrival brought new political calculations and social adjustments. The room buzzed with conversations as families assessed their relative standings and adjusted their approaches accordingly.
Then the herald’s voice took on a note of uncertainty that immediately caught Grim’s attention.
"His Majesty... Húwáng, Fox King of the Eastern Territories, accompanied by the Lady Ruxi!"
The great hall fell silent as two figures entered who were clearly unlike any of the previous guests. Húwáng appeared as a tall, elegant man with silver-streaked black hair and eyes that seemed to change shape as he looked around the room.