Reborn as the Last van Ambrose

The palace gardens provided a welcome escape from the political tensions that had dominated the past few days since Elder Míngzhì’s formal challenge.

Grim and Ruxi walked along the winding paths, discussing the implications of the upcoming evaluation while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

"Father believes the evaluation will ultimately work in your favor," Ruxi said as they approached a secluded pavilion overlooking a koi pond. "Your willingness to accept formal review impressed several neutral council members."

"I hope his assessment proves accurate," Grim replied. "Though I admit uncertainty about what criteria they’ll actually apply."

"The fox spirits value—" Ruxi began, but was interrupted by the sound of approaching footsteps.

"Princess Ruxi!" came Xùyán’s cheerful voice as he emerged from a side path with perfectly timed coincidence. "What a delightful surprise to encounter you here."

Grim noted the calculated nature of the "accidental" meeting, though Xùyán’s expression displayed nothing but pleased surprise at finding them together.

"Xùyán," Ruxi replied with obvious resignation. "I wasn’t aware you frequented this section of the gardens."

"Oh, I often come here to reflect," Xùyán said smoothly, settling onto a nearby bench without invitation. "This pavilion holds such wonderful memories from our childhood adventures."

"Does it?" Grim asked politely, recognizing the opening gambit of what would likely prove to be an extended exercise in psychological manipulation.

"Indeed," Xùyán confirmed with obvious nostalgia. "Ruxi and I spent countless hours here discussing philosophy, practicing magical techniques, and sharing dreams about our futures. Didn’t we, Ruxi?"

"We did spend time here as children," Ruxi admitted carefully, clearly uncomfortable with the direction of the conversation.