Reborn as the Last van Ambrose
Chapter 207: You Are Quite Fragrant

Chapter 207: You Are Quite Fragrant

Conversations that had been focused on assessing marriage candidates and political opportunities suddenly shifted as guests recognized a new avenue for influence.

If direct approaches to Grim proved challenging, perhaps securing the favor of his father might provide alternative pathways to alliance.

Grim watched from across the hall as various nobles began gravitating toward the figure wearing his father’s face.

Malaxis played his role perfectly, accepted their handshakes willingly. To all observers, this was simply a beloved patriarch being welcomed back into the social circles.

"Lord Rowan," Duke Edmund Ravencrest was the first to approach, his weathered face showing genuine pleasure at the reunion. "It’s been far too long. When word reached us that you had vanished twelve years ago, many of us feared the worst."

"Duke Ravencrest," Malaxis replied with Rowan’s characteristic warmth, extending his hand in greeting. "Your concern was appreciated then, as your presence here tonight honors my family. I’m grateful to see old friendships endure despite my prolonged absence."

"The circumstances of your departure were... unclear," Ravencrest continued, clearly fishing for information. "We heard reports of an attack, some kind of supernatural threat..."

"A dark Chapter in our family’s history," Malaxis said with a hint of sadness in his voice. "I prefer not to dwell on such matters, especially during such a joyous celebration. Tonight is about my son’s future, not the shadows of the past."

Grim felt his jaw clench as he watched Malaxis deflect questions with the same diplomatic skill the real Rowan had possessed. The entity was playing the role flawlessly, providing just enough information to get by.

"Lord Rowan," another voice interjected as Lord Sebastian Theroux joined the conversation. "Your son has accomplished remarkable things during your absence. The sect, his imperial appointment, his demonstrated abilities—House Ambrose has truly returned to prominence."

"I couldn’t be more proud," Malaxis replied, his eyes briefly finding Grim across the crowded hall. "Though I must admit, his achievements have exceeded even my most optimistic expectations. The young man has proven himself capable of... extraordinary things."

"Speaking of extraordinary," Lord Orvannis inserted himself into the growing circle around Rowan, "we were hoping to discuss marriage. My daughter Elena would be honored to be considered as a candidate for your son’s hand."

"As would my Victoria," Blackwood added quickly. "A military alliance between our houses could prove mutually beneficial, particularly given your son’s new responsibilities as Imperial Defender."

Malaxis smiled with apparent delight at their eagerness. "Gentlemen, I’m flattered by your interest, but you understand that such decisions ultimately rest with Grim himself. However, I would be happy to... convey your enthusiasm to him. Perhaps arrange private audiences where your daughters’ virtues might be properly appreciated."

"That would be lovely, Lord Rowan," Thornfield said, clearly pleased by this apparent access to influence.

"Indeed," Blackwood agreed. "Your perspective on such matters would carry considerable weight with any young man choosing his first wife."

As the conversation continued, more nobles began gravitating toward the group surrounding Rowan. Each sought to position themselves favorably, offering compliments on House Ambrose’s restoration while subtly promoting their own interests.

"Lord Rowan," Viscount Philip Ashford approached, "I hope we might discuss trade agreements between our territories. With your son’s growing influence, there may be opportunities for expanded commerce."

"Certainly, Viscount," Malaxis replied smoothly. "Though I must say, I’m still catching up on current political developments. Perhaps you could brief me on how the commercial landscape has evolved during my absence?"

Grim recognized the subtle intelligence gathering for what it was. Malaxis was using these eager nobles to update himself on current political relationships, economic conditions, and social dynamics.

Every piece of information they volunteered in their attempts to curry favor was being filed away for future use.

"The southern trade routes have become particularly lucrative," Ashford explained enthusiastically. "Your son’s position as Imperial Defender puts him in perfect position to influence shipping regulations and tariff policies."

"Fascinating," Malaxis murmured, though Grim could see the predatory interest in his eyes despite the pleasant expression on his face.

Meanwhile, Chen Xing appeared at Grim’s side. "The resemblance is... remarkable."

"The resemblance is perfect because it is my father," Grim replied grimly. "The body, the memories, even the mannerisms—all authentic. What’s changed is what’s controlling them."

"Should we... intervene somehow? Prevent him from gathering information?"

"Not yet. Let him play his game for now. Any obvious interference would raise questions we’re not prepared to answer publicly." Grim watched as Ambassador Lín from Colere joined the group around Rowan.

"Besides, he’s not learning anything he couldn’t discover through conventional observation. The real danger lies in what he plans to do with the information."

"Lord Rowan," Ambassador Lín was saying as he approached with diplomatic protocol, "Colere extends formal greetings and congratulations on your family’s remarkable recovery. We had hoped to have a private discussion with you."

"Ambassador," Malaxis replied with perfect diplomatic courtesy, "Colere’s interest in cooperation is most welcome. I understand your nation has developed impressive magical academies."

"Indeed."

"Your father seems quite popular," Princess Liona observed as she approached with two glasses of wine, offering one to Grim.

"He always was skilled at social gatherings," Grim replied carefully. "Though I suspect his current... enthusiasm for information gathering goes beyond simple curiosity."

"You sound concerned."

"Twelve years changes a person," Grim said, choosing his words with deliberate care. "I’m still learning who my father has become during his absence."

Liona studied his expression with the perceptiveness that made her an effective heir to the imperial throne. "And you’re not entirely pleased with what you’re discovering?"

"Let’s just say that reunion fantasies and reality don’t always align," Grim replied diplomatically.

Their conversation was interrupted by approaching laughter as Lady Ruxi glided toward them. The fox spirit’s golden eyes held amusement as she observed the crowd surrounding Rowan.

"Your father is quite the diplomatic attraction," she noted with a slight smile that revealed slightly pointed canines. "Half the hall is competing for his attention."

"Family reunions tend to draw interest," Grim replied neutrally.

"Indeed. Though I find myself more curious about the son than the father," Ruxi said, her gaze meeting his directly. "True power has a smell to it. And i must say you are quite fragrant."

"And what exactly do you perceive?" Liona asked, her tone carrying a subtle edge of territorial challenge.

"Layers," Ruxi replied with apparent delight at the tension she was creating. "I see him for what he truly is."

Before either Grim or Liona could respond, the fox spirit moved away with a knowing smile, leaving them to contemplate her words.

"Charming," Liona muttered.

"Perceptive," Grim corrected grimly.

Across the hall, the crowd around Rowan had grown larger as more nobles sought access to what they perceived as influence.

Master Chen Wei from the Southern Merchant Consortium was explaining trade routes, while Lord Commander Harrison detailed military deployments in the western territories.

"Your son’s appointment has created new opportunities for cooperation between military and civilians," Harrison was saying.

"Excellent," Malaxis replied with apparent satisfaction. "Security has always been a priority for House Ambrose. Perhaps we could discuss specific challenges you’ve encountered?"

As Harrison began detailing intelligence about bandits, smuggling operations, and foreign military movements, Grim realized that Malaxis was methodically gathering comprehensive information about the Empire’s defensive abilities and vulnerabilities.

"The northern borders have been particularly active," Harrison continued, oblivious to the true nature of his audience. "Strange reports have come from that region."

"Strange reports?" Malaxis asked with what appeared to be casual interest.

"Nothing conclusive, but our scouts have reported encounters with entities that don’t match any known beasts. The men are getting nervous."

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