Reborn as the Last van Ambrose

The Ambrose manor’s formal meeting room had been prepared with meticulous care, though the atmosphere remained tense despite Chen Xing’s diplomatic efforts.

Julius Luminaris arrived precisely on time, his usually immaculate appearance showing subtle signs of the strain his family had endured over the past week.

"Lord Luminaris," Grim said with formal courtesy as Julius was escorted into the room. "Thank you for accepting my invitation."

"Lord Ambrose," Julius replied with a bow that contained the precise amount of respect required by protocol, though his eyes carried wariness that suggested he expected this meeting to be another form of attack.

Grim gestured to the chair across from his desk, noting how Julius’s movements lacked their usual confident authority.

"I trust your family is adjusting to recent circumstances well." Grim asked with apparent concern.

"We are managing," Julius replied carefully. "Though I admit the past week has been eventual if nothing else."

"I’m certain it has," Grim agreed. "Which brings me to the purpose of this meeting. I believe enough lessons have been learned, and perhaps it’s time to discuss more constructive arrangements."

Julius’s eyebrows rose with obvious surprise. "What kind of arrangements?"

"The kind that might help House Luminaris recover from its recent misfortunes," Grim replied, settling back in his chair with the expression of someone making a generous offer. "I’m prepared to publicly announce House Ambrose’s support for your family’s continued prosperity."

The silence that followed was electric with tension and disbelief.