Reborn as the Last van Ambrose

The Imperial Magistrate’s office was a somber place, filled with heavy wooden furniture and shelves lined with legal texts that represented centuries of imperial law.

Magistrate Holven sat behind his imposing desk, reviewing a formal complaint that had arrived that morning with obvious displeasure.

"This is highly irregular, Lord Ambrose," he said, adjusting his spectacles as he studied the documents. "Magnus Richfield has filed a formal complaint alleging intimidation, blackmail, and interference with legitimate business operations."

Grim sat across from the magistrate with perfect composure, his expression carrying the kind of calm confidence that came from knowing exactly how this conversation would unfold.

"Has he?" Grim asked with mild interest. "What kind of evidence has Mr. Richfield provided to support these allegations?"

"That’s precisely the problem," Holven replied with growing frustration. "His complaint is remarkably vague on specifics. He claims you’ve threatened him and interfered with his business relationships, but he provides no documentation, no witnesses, and no clear timeline of events."

"How unfortunate," Grim observed. "Though I suppose it’s difficult to document crimes that never occurred."

The magistrate leaned back in his chair, his expression suggesting he was already reaching conclusions about the complaint’s merit.

"Indeed. However, Mr. Richfield has demanded a formal investigation into your recent activities. He claims you’ve been systematically targeting associates of House Luminaris through illegal means."

"Interesting," Grim said thoughtfully. "And has Mr. Richfield explained why he believes I would target House Luminaris associates specifically?"

"He has not," Holven admitted. "Though he did mention something about a rumor campaign and political retaliation."