Empress Alexia sat behind an ornate desk carved from a single piece of dark wood, reviewing documents that bore the imperial seal and required her personal attention.
When Grim was announced, she looked up from her paperwork with obvious interest.
"Lord Ambrose," she said, gesturing to the chair across from her desk. "Your message mentioned urgent matters requiring immediate attention. I trust the Celestial Sect is progressing well?"
"Indeed, Your Majesty," Grim replied, settling into his chair. "The sect has eliminated the uncommitted and begun serious cultivation training. However, I require your permission for a temporary absence from the capital."
The Empress's eyebrows rose with obvious surprise. "A temporary absence? At this particular moment in your sect's development?"
"I have received an invitation from the Húli jīng," Grim explained carefully. "They wish to discuss matters of mutual interest that could benefit both House Ambrose and the Empire."
