Reborn as the Last van Ambrose-Chapter 117: Unwelcomed Company

Grim observed Vera and Kali completing their morning practice routines. Both warriors had improved in the short time since they arrived, partly due to regular training with Huangyan.

"They’ll serve adequately as escort for the southern journey," Huangyan commented, joining Grim at the edge of the practice yard. "Though I recommend we supplement with at least four additional guards. The coastal territories can be unpredictable."

Grim nodded agreement. "Select from those you’ve personally trained."

Since his appointment as Imperial Defender of the Southern Shores, it was Grim’s responsibility to check on the southern shores from time to time.

"Chen Xing has assembled detailed reports on the coastal settlements," Grim continued, "but firsthand observation will reveal what documents cannot."

"And we should arrive before the seasonal storms," Huangyan added. "Another month and the southern seas would become treacherous."

As they turned toward the main estate to review final preparations, a messenger in imperial livery approached with a formal scroll bearing the palace seal.

"Lord Ambrose," the messenger announced with a deep bow, "Her Imperial Highness Princess Liona requests an audience at your earliest convenience."

Grim accepted the scroll, recognizing the distinctive silver thread woven through the imperial binding—Liona’s personal trademark.

"Inform Her Highness I would be honored to receive her this afternoon," he replied, dismissing the messenger with a respectful nod.

Huangyan chuckled. "The princess has shown particular interest in your activities of late."

"Indeed," Grim acknowledged.

The message confirmed this, expressing Liona’s "scholarly interest" in the ancient coastal ruins and "fortuitous timing" of Grim’s planned inspection tour.

"Political complications," Huangyan observed.

"Or opportunities," Grim countered. "The princess has access to imperial records predating the current dynasty. There is knowledge in the Imperial Archives that I wish to see."

Chen Xing was waiting for them in Grim’s study, maps of the southern territories spread across the large central table. The administrative advisor looked up as they entered, immediately noting the imperial scroll in Grim’s hand. freewёbn૦νeɭ.com

"News from the palace?" he inquired.

"Liona wishes to discuss the southern journey," Grim replied, handing him the scroll. "She’ll be arriving this afternoon."

Chen Xing scanned the message quickly. "The Empire will pay close attention to any expedition carrying the imperial princess."

"Making it difficult to conduct more sensitive explorations without notice," Huangyan added.

"Additionally, the princess has personally studied the imperial archives regarding the southern territories. Her insights could prove invaluable."

Grim moved to the window. "Arrange appropriate accommodations for her visit. And prepare contingency plans for both scenarios—traveling with or without royal accompaniment."

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Princess Liona arrived in the afternoon, her imperial carriage escorted by a small group of palace guards.

She entered wearing a gown of deep blue silk with silver embroidery that complemented the crescent moon pendant at her throat. The pendant, Grim noted, remained her consistent accessory despite the rotation of imperial jewels typically expected of the royal family.

"Grim," she greeted him with a warm smile, dispensing with formalities once they were alone. "Thank you for making time for me on such short notice."

"For you, I always have time," Grim replied, his eyes holding hers a moment longer than necessary. "The gardens are particularly lovely today. Shall we talk there?"

As they settled at the terrace table, attendants poured tea before discreetly withdrawing.

"I hear you’re preparing to inspect the southern territories," Liona said. "The coastal regions have fascinated me since I was a child."

"The southern shores seem an unusual passion for someone in your position," Grim remarked, a hint of admiration in his voice.

A playful smile crossed her lips. "When have I ever confined myself to what’s expected of me?"

"Never, which is precisely what makes you interesting," Grim replied. "Have you read Vareth’s accounts of the Southern Shores?"

Surprise and delight flickered in her eyes. "You’ve read Vareth? Most nobles wouldn’t bother with such academic texts."

"I’m not most nobles," Grim said, a half-smile forming. "I have my own private archives."

"Then you’re familiar with his theories connecting certain ruins and the tides," she said, leaning closer to him. "Few people appreciate the significance of his work."

"Is that why you’re here, Liona? To share scholarly insights about old stones and strange tides?"

She met his gaze directly, her voice softening. "Partly. But more honestly, I want to accompany you on your expedition."

Grim’s expression remained thoughtful, though he’d anticipated her request. "It won’t be an easy journey. Five days of travel through changing terrains, with few comforts even in the port cities."

"You know I’m not afraid of a challenge," Liona replied, her eyes holding a glint of determination. "And seeing those ruins firsthand is worth any temporary discomfort."

Before Grim could respond, footsteps approached from the garden entrance. Lianna appeared, her timing as impeccable as ever.

"Well, well," she said, her lips curving into a knowing smile. "If it isn’t our beloved princess gracing the Ambrose estate. What a delightful surprise."

Despite her casual tone, Grim caught the subtle tension in her expression and the sharp assessment in her eyes.

"Lianna," Liona acknowledged with equal measure of warmth and wariness. "What perfect timing you have. Grim and I were just discussing the southern coastal ruins."

"Were you now?" Lianna replied, dropping into an empty chair without invitation. "I’ve heard talk that our Water Boy plans to inspect his new territories soon. The southern journey would certainly offer... unique experiences away from prying eyes."

"Liona has expressed interest in joining me," Grim confirmed, watching the subtle interplay between the two women.

"What a marvelous idea," Lianna declared, her tone honeyed yet sharp. "Actually, I’ve been meaning to visit the southern shores myself. My family has business interests in several port cities that require a personal touch."

The message was clear: if Liona joined the expedition, Lianna would be there too, unwilling to allow the princess uncontested time with Grim.

We leave in three days," Grim stated, addressing both women. "Anyone joining would need to be properly prepared—and in your case, Liona, with imperial approval."

"Mother will give her blessing," Liona said with quiet confidence. "The educational value alone justifies it, and with proper escort, she’ll have no security concerns."