Chapter 250: Elder Míngzhì
The council chamber’s atmosphere was more tense than usual as Grim entered for his third formal session with the nine-tailed elders.
Word of his cultivation breakthrough had spread through the court, along with rumors about the spectacular mana explosions that had accompanied his fourth heart formation.
Elder Míngzhì sat rigidly in his chair. The other elders displayed varying degrees of interest and concern, though their expressions remained carefully neutral.
"Lord Ambrose," Húwáng said as Grim took his designated seat, "the council has requested an update on your cultural integration and recent developments."
"Of course, Your Majesty," Grim replied, though he sensed that this session would prove more challenging than previous encounters.
"Before we proceed," Elder Míngzhì interjected, "I believe we must address a matter of importance to our realm’s integrity."
The formal tone immediately put the chamber on alert. When an elder spoke with such gravity, serious concerns were being raised.
"The floor recognizes Elder Míngzhì," Húwáng said, though his expression suggested he anticipated problems.
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Míngzhì replied, rising from his chair with deliberate ceremony. "Honored colleagues, we gather today to discuss not just Lord Ambrose’s progress, but the broader implications of his presence among our people."
Several elders exchanged glances, clearly understanding that Míngzhì was launching a formal challenge.
"For weeks, we have observed Lord Ambrose learning our customs, participating in our ceremonies, and gaining access to knowledge that has traditionally remained within our people," Míngzhì continued. "While his individual conduct has been largely appropriate, I submit that his very presence represents a threat to our cultural purity."
"In what sense?" Elder Zhìhuì asked, his political expertise clearly engaged by the formal nature of the challenge.