Grim felt a chill run down his spine. Malaxis wasn't just gathering social and political intelligence—he was mapping supernatural activity and military responses throughout the Empire.
The evening was progressing exactly as the entity had planned, with eager nobles volunteering information in their attempts to curry favor. Each conversation added another piece to whatever larger picture Malaxis was constructing.
"Lord Ambrose," a familiar voice interrupted his observations. Grim turned to see Lord Terras approaching, the man's arrogant bearing unchanged despite his previous humiliation. The missing right ear was partially hidden by carefully arranged hair, but the scarring was still visible.
"Lord Terras," Grim acknowledged coldly. "I'm surprised to see you here."
"House Ambrose has always hosted inclusive celebrations," Terras replied with forced civility. "Besides, I wanted to personally congratulate you on your achievements."
"How generous of you."
