Chapter 258: Surprising Guest
The council chamber buzzed with tension as the nine-tailed elders took their seats for what many suspected would be the final deliberation on Grim’s petition.
Elder Míngzhì sat with obvious satisfaction, a collection of documents arranged before him like weapons prepared for battle.
"The session is convened," Húwáng announced, his voice carrying across the circular chamber. "We gather to reach final judgment on Lord Ambrose’s petition for marriage alliance and integration into our realm."
"Before we proceed," Elder Míngzhì interjected, rising with ceremonial precision, "I have obtained new information that directly bears on this decision. Information that reveals the true nature of Lord Ambrose’s methods in human lands."
Several elders exchanged glances at the formal challenge. Míngzhì’s tone suggested he possessed evidence that would definitively resolve the debate in his favor.
"The floor recognizes Elder Míngzhì," Húwáng said, though his expression showed wariness about what would be revealed.
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Míngzhì replied, lifting the first document from his collection. "Through careful investigation, I have uncovered details about Lord Ambrose’s recent activities that paint a disturbing picture of his true character."
"What kind of investigation?" Elder Zhìhuì asked, his political instincts clearly engaged.
"Correspondence with human sources, testimonies from witnesses, and official records from the imperial court," Míngzhì replied. "Evidence that cannot be dismissed as rumor or speculation."
The elder’s confidence was unmistakable. He had clearly spent considerable effort gathering information that would support his opposition to Grim’s integration.
"Please proceed," Húwáng said diplomatically, though his tone suggested he anticipated problems.
"The centerpiece of my investigation concerns the destruction of House Luminaris," Míngzhì announced, his voice carrying the weight of a formal accusation. "Lord Ambrose didn’t simply defeat political rivals—he orchestrated the complete annihilation of an entire noble house."