Chapter 214: Another Kiss
The great hall buzzed with subdued conversation as guests processed what they had just witnessed.
Jin Wei had been carried away by Colere medical attendants, his broken arm already beginning to swell despite their immediate care.
The improvised arena had been hastily cleared, but the atmosphere of celebration had been irreparably damaged.
"That was... excessive," Lord Commander Harrison muttered to his aide, his military training allowing him to appreciate the skill while being disturbed by the brutality. "The boy had yielded clearly."
"Indeed," his aide replied quietly. "Lord Ambrose seemed aggressive. More aggressive than his reputation would suggest."
Similar conversations were taking place throughout the hall as various factions tried to process the implications of what they had observed.
Some guests appeared genuinely disturbed by the unnecessary violence, while others seemed to view it as a demonstration of strength that commanded respect.
"A most impressive display," Duke Ravencrest was saying to his companions, though his tone carried uncertainty. "House Ambrose has clearly regained its martial prowess."
"Regained?" Lord Orvannis replied with concern. "There was something almost predatory about his behavior."
Near the refreshment tables, Ambassador Lín was engaged in urgent conversation with his remaining delegation members. The injury had clearly shaken the normally composed diplomat.
"Jin Wei’s arm will heal," he was saying, though his voice carried barely controlled anger, "but the political implications of this incident are significant. Such brutality toward a yielding opponent suggests either poor training or deliberate cruelty."