Chapter 212: Relief
The debate between the marriage candidates continued with increasing intensity as Grim moved through the celebration.
Grim struggled to maintain normal interactions while the dark mana coursed through his body.
Every conversation felt like a minefield, every smile a mask hiding the corruption he could feel spreading through his very essence.
"Lord Ambrose," Master Chen Wei approached with obvious excitement, "the evening has been magnificent. Such decisive leadership, such clear demonstration of House Ambrose’s return to power—"
"Thank you," Grim managed, keeping his response brief while avoiding direct eye contact. The merchant’s enthusiasm felt overwhelming to his heightened senses, each word felt like emotions Grim could see that the dark energy made him want to exploit.
"Perhaps we could discuss trade agreements tomorrow?" Chen Wei continued. "With your new position and growing influence—"
"Chen Xing handles such arrangements," Grim interrupted, gesturing toward his advisor who was coordinating with the kitchen staff. "Speak with him."
As Chen Wei departed with obvious disappointment, Grim realized he was alienating potential allies with his abrupt behavior. But the alternative—engaging in lengthy conversations while fighting off waves of predatory instinct—seemed far worse.
Near the women’s alcove, the debate had grown more heated.
"You speak of the supernatural," Liona was saying to Ruxi, her diplomatic composure showing strain, "but political realities matter more than the mystical. The Empire needs stable alliances, not romantic fantasies."
"Stability built on lies doesn’t last," Ruxi replied with pointed amusement. "How long before your family’s secrets become too heavy for any marriage to bear? How long before Grim discovers what the imperial bloodline really represents?"