The financial manager’s complexion now shifted from pale to flushed. When he spoke again, his voice had lost its professionalism. "The settlement amount you proposed seems reasonable upon reflection. Thirty-two thousand crowns for full release of all obligations."
"I’m pleased we could reach an understanding," Grim said, producing a draft for the agreed amount from inside his coat. "I’ve taken the liberty of preparing the payment in advance."
Blackwell examined the draft, then unlocked a drawer to retrieve formal documentation. "I’ll prepare the release immediately. Will you require anything else, Lord Ambrose?"
"Two additional items," Grim specified. "First, written confirmation that the original forge and equipment remain Silverscale’s private property. Second, a personal assurance that you will explain this settlement to Lord Luminaris in a way that discourages any... repercussions."
The implication was clear—if Julius retaliated against the Silverscales, Grim would consider it evidence that Blackwell had failed to properly do his job.
"Both reasonable requests," Blackwell agreed, now clearly eager to conclude their business. "I’ll include the property release with the debt settlement documentation. And I assure you, Lord Luminaris will understand that further pursuit of this matter would be inadvisable."
Whether this last promise would be kept remained questionable, but Grim had achieved his primary objective. Within the hour, he departed Blackwell’s office with formal documentation releasing Korin Silverscale from all obligations to House Luminaris.
The half-dragon and his wife would be free to depart the mining district without fear of legal repercussions. Of course, legal barriers weren’t the only kind Julius might employ once he learned of Korin’s departure—but by then, they would be out of his reach.
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"The arrangements are complete," Chen Xing reported late that evening. "A specialized carriage has been prepared with water reservoirs and humidification systems for Lady Silverscale’s comfort during travel. Lady Mei’s assistant healer, Mistress Linna, will accompany them to monitor her condition."
"And the forge?" Grim asked.
"As instructed, I’ve arranged for two retired imperial guards now in House Ambrose service to remain at the Silverscale forge after their departure. They’ll maintain the property as an Ambrose holding in the mining district."
"The carriage departs at dawn for the mining district and should return with the Silverscales by tomorrow evening."
"Excellent," Grim said. "Have suitable quarters prepared in the east wing. The rooms overlooking the fountain courtyard. There is a sizeable pond in the back she can use if it will put her body at ease."
As Chen Xing departed to implement these instructions, Grim reviewed the documentation from Blackwell once more. The settlement was complete, the legal issues resolved—but he harbored no illusions about Julius Luminaris’s reaction when he discovered that a valuable asset had been removed from his control.
The following morning, the specialized carriage departed the Ambrose estate before dawn, carrying Mistress Linna and two trusted guards. Grim had considered accompanying them personally but decided his presence might provoke unwanted attention in the mining district. Better to allow the Silverscales to depart quietly while he addressed other matters requiring his attention in the capital.
"The sect construction plans have been formally registered with the Imperial Registry," Chen Xing reported during their morning briefing. "Master Temri’s team is preparing the site now that the Draykar mansion demolition is complete."
"Good," Grim replied, reviewing the latest architectural drawings. "And what of the ancient foundation beneath?"
"What of Princess Liona’s request to accompany us to the southern shores?" Chen Xing inquired cautiously, knowing the political sensitivities involved.
"We’ll address that after the Silverscale’s are settled," Grim replied. "Though her knowledge of imperial archives could prove valuable."
"Shall I summon the house staff for a formal welcome, my lord?" Chen Xing asked as they observed the carriage’s approach from the study window.
"No," Grim decided. "They’ve endured enough attention today. A quiet reception will better serve their comfort."
As the specialized carriage passed through the Ambrose gates, Grim made his way to the eastern courtyard entrance.
The specialized carriage arrived at the Ambrose estate just as dusk was settling over the capital. The Ambrose guards stationed at the main gate had been instructed to expect it and quickly directed the vehicle to the eastern courtyard entrance.
Grim stood waiting as the carriage door opened, revealing Mistress Linna, the water-healing specialist who had accompanied the Silverscales from the mining district. She descended first, turning immediately to assist her patient.
Naia Silverscale emerged slowly. The specialized environment of the carriage, combined with Mistress Linna’s treatments during the journey, had already begun to improve her condition.
Korin followed. He carried only a single large trunk and the wooden case containing his masterpieces.
"Lord Ambrose," Korin greeted, bowing his head respectfully. "We are... overwhelmed by your hospitality."
"Welcome to House Ambrose," Grim replied. "Your quarters have been prepared. I imagine you’d both appreciate rest after your journey."
"Rest would be welcome," Naia admitted, her voice stronger than before. "Though I find myself breathing easier with each passing mile from the mining district."
"The capital’s air is considerably cleaner," Mistress Linna explained. "And I’ve administered water mana treatments that have begun to clear the accumulated toxins from her system. Lady Naia has responded remarkably well—a promising sign."
Servants appeared to handle the Silverscales’ modest luggage as Grim personally led them through the estate to the east wing. Korin’s vertical pupils dilated as they passed through grand hallways adorned with Ambrose family artifacts and historical artworks—a stark contrast to their humble cottage.
"These will be your quarters," Grim announced, gesturing to a set of connected rooms overlooking a courtyard. The sound of flowing water was constant but soothing, creating a gentle background ambiance.
"This is... beyond anything we could have imagined," Naia said softly, moving immediately to the open window where mist from the fountain emerged.
"These are temporary accommodations," Grim explained. "Once the Sect facilities are constructed, your quarters will be prepared for you there."
Korin’s tail swished around. "My lord, I don’t know how to express our gratitude adequately. Yesterday we were bound by debt in a place that was slowly killing my wife. Today..." He gestured to their surroundings, seemingly at a loss for words.
"Today is merely the beginning," Grim replied. "I have something for you."