The Ambrose manor's formal meeting room had been prepared with meticulous care, though the atmosphere remained tense despite Chen Xing's diplomatic efforts.
Julius Luminaris arrived precisely on time, his usually immaculate appearance showing subtle signs of the strain his family had endured over the past week.
"Lord Luminaris," Grim said with formal courtesy as Julius was escorted into the room. "Thank you for accepting my invitation."
"Lord Ambrose," Julius replied with a bow that contained the precise amount of respect required by protocol, though his eyes carried wariness that suggested he expected this meeting to be another form of attack.
Grim gestured to the chair across from his desk, noting how Julius's movements lacked their usual confident authority.
"I trust your family is adjusting to recent circumstances well." Grim asked with apparent concern.
"We are managing," Julius replied carefully. "Though I admit the past week has been eventual if nothing else."
