Reborn as the Last van Ambrose
Chapter 211: Effects of Dark Mana

Chapter 211: Effects of Dark Mana

Grim returned to the celebration with careful, measured steps, his mind focused entirely on concealment.

The dark mana continued to circulate through his system like liquid fire, each pulse making the scar on his face throb with purple light. He kept his head slightly lowered, using the shadows cast by the chandeliers to hide his transformed eyes.

"Lord Ambrose," a merchant approached with a wine glass, "congratulations on handling that unpleasant business with Lord Terras. Such decisive action—"

"Thank you," Grim interrupted, accepting the glass but avoiding direct eye contact. "If you’ll excuse me, I need to check on other guests."

He moved away quickly, leaving the merchant looking puzzled by the abrupt dismissal.

The dark mana made every interaction feel charged with potential violence, as if the merchant’s simple praise had been a challenge requiring response.

Grim forced himself to breathe slowly, fighting the urge to seek confrontation.

"My lord," Violet appeared at his side, her voice concerned. "Are you feeling well? You seem..."

"I’m fine," Grim said more sharply than intended, then softened his tone. "Just tired from the evening’s events. Continue with your duties."

Violet nodded but her eyes lingered on his face with obvious worry. Grim realized she was trying to see his face clearly in the dim lighting, and he turned away before she could notice the changes.

The celebration swirled around him, conversations and laughter creating a backdrop that felt increasingly surreal.

Every sound seemed amplified, every color more vivid, every person’s emotional state visible like an aura surrounding them. The dark mana was enhancing his perceptions in ways that were both fascinating and overwhelming.

"Lord Grim," Ambassador Lín approached with diplomatic persistence, "I was hoping we could continue our earlier discussion about—"

"Later," Grim replied without looking up from his glass. "Perhaps tomorrow when I can give the matter proper attention."

"Of course," Lín said, though his tone carried subtle disappointment. "I’ll arrange a formal meeting through your advisor."

As the ambassador departed, Grim realized he was alienating potential allies with his evasive behavior. But maintaining normal social interactions felt impossible when every instinct was screaming at him to either flee or fight.

[The corruption is affecting your judgment,] Caius observed grimly from within his consciousness. [You’re becoming paranoid and aggressive.]

"I’m aware," Grim murmured quietly, pretending to examine the wine in his glass.

[This is what Malaxis intended. The dark mana isn’t just changing your abilities—it’s changing your nature. You need to resist its influence.]

"Easy for you to say," Grim replied under his breath. "You’re not the one feeling like your entire body is on fire."

[That intoxication is exactly what makes it dangerous. Malaxis was right about one thing—this feels natural because you do carry traces of dark mana. But that doesn’t mean surrendering to it is wise.]

Across the hall, Grim noticed a group of women had gathered near one of the quieter alcoves.

Princess Liona, Lady Lianna, Lady Mira, and Lady Ruxi stood in a loose circle, their conversation appearing casual to distant observers but carrying undertones of tension that be could sense.

"So," Mira was saying as Grim moved close enough to overhear while pretending to examine a nearby tapestry, "I suppose we should address the obvious. We’re all here for the same reason."

"Are we?" Liona asked with diplomatic neutrality. "I’m here to support a family friend during an important celebration."

"Please," Lianna said with characteristic directness. "We’re all interested in marrying Grim. Let’s not pretend otherwise."

"Refreshing honesty," Ruxi observed with amusement. "Very well. What do each of you bring to such an alliance?"

"Political security," Liona replied without hesitation. "Marriage to the imperial family provides protection, resources, and influence that no other house can match. It also ensures Grim’s children would have legitimate claims to imperial succession."

"Practical," Mira agreed. "Though I offer something different. House Luminaris controls significant financial resources and military trading. My husband would have access to wealth that could fund any ambition."

"And personal compatibility," Lianna added. "I’ve known Grim since childhood. We understand each other in ways that political marriages rarely achieve. Trust and friendship provide stronger foundations than mere convenience."

"Interesting perspectives," Ruxi said with a smile that showed her pointed canines. "Though I wonder if any of you truly understand what you’re competing for."

"Meaning?" Liona asked, her tone growing cooler.

"Meaning that Lord Ambrose isn’t the same person he was twelve years ago," Ruxi replied. "His experiences have changed him in ways that most humans couldn’t comprehend. He needs a partner who can understand him."

"And you believe you’re that partner?" Mira asked with obvious skepticism.

"I believe I’m the only one here who truly sees him for what he’s becoming," Ruxi said confidently. "You, Miss Luminaris, have no real chance. Grim has sworn to kill your father, and he believes your family caused his family’s downfall. He also nearly killed your brother in the tournament. How exactly do you plan to overcome that history?"

Mira’s composure slipped slightly. "Families can reconcile. Political alliances often bridge old grievances."

"Not when those grievances run as deep as blood," Ruxi replied dismissively. "You might have taken his first kiss, but you’ll never be close to him. He sees you as the enemy wearing a beautiful face."

"WHAT YOU KISSED HIM!!" Liona, and Lianna said simultaneously.

"That’s ridiculous," Mira said, though her voice lacked conviction.

Ruxi turned to Lianna. "And you, Lady Levenhart, he’ll only ever see as a friend. Childhood companions rarely become romantic partners among nobility. You’re too familiar, too comfortable. He needs someone who challenges him, not someone who reminds him of simpler times."

"You don’t know anything about our relationship," Lianna replied hotly.

"Don’t I?" Ruxi asked with knowing amusement. "Then why hasn’t he ever shown romantic interest despite years of friendship? Why has he never attempted courtship?"

Lianna’s silence spoke volumes.

Finally, Ruxi addressed Liona. "And you, Your Highness, face the greatest obstacle of all. He’ll never be with you because the royal family has too many secrets. The imperial bloodline carries responsibilities and knowledge that would complicate any genuine relationship. He’s already seen enough of the supernatural to be wary."

"You seem very confident in your assessments," Liona said coolly. "What exactly makes you so certain?"

"The power he carries and the enemies he’s made—they’re all leading him toward a destiny that requires a partner capable of matching his strength. Political convenience and childhood friendship won’t be enough." Ruxi said calmly.

"And supernatural heritage will?" Mira asked sarcastically.

"Supernatural will," Ruxi corrected. "The ability to perceive and interact other creatures. The strength to stand beside him when he faces threats that would destroy him."

The conversation continued, but Grim had heard enough. He moved away from the alcove, his mind racing with implications. Ruxi clearly knew more about his situation than she should, and her confidence suggested she had information the others lacked.

The dark mana pulsed through his body, and for a moment he felt an overwhelming urge to approach the group and end the debate decisively.

The corruption whispered in his ear that he was powerful enough to claim any woman he wanted, that political considerations were weaknesses to be discarded.

[Resist,] Caius warned urgently. [Those thoughts aren’t entirely your own.]