The crowd's enthusiasm continued for several more minutes, with people calling out congratulations and well-wishes for the Ambrose family reunion.
Grim maintained his composure through sheer force of will, accepting handshakes and brief conversations while his mind raced to process what Malaxis had revealed.
The entity wearing his father's face moved through the crowd, accepting greetings from nobles who remembered Rowan van Ambrose and introduction to those too young to have known him before his disappearance.
To all outward appearances, it was exactly what it seemed—a beloved family patriarch returning home to witness his son's triumph.
Chen Xing appeared at Grim's elbow as the crowd around them began to thin. "My lord," he said quietly, "there are several delegates who wish to speak with you privately before the formal ceremonies conclude."
Grim nodded, grateful for the interruption. "Of course. Lead the way."
