The formal meeting room in the east wing had been prepared with meticulous care, though the atmosphere remained tense despite Chen Xing's diplomatic efforts.
Ambassador Lín arrived precisely on time, and his usual composed demeanor was nowhere to be seen.
"Lord Ambrose," he said with a bow. "Thank you for agreeing to this meeting."
"Ambassador," Grim replied, settling into his chair at the head of the polished table.
Chen Xing positioned himself near the door, his role as mediator already seeming inadequate for the tension filling the room. Two of Ambassador Lín's aids flanked their superior, their expressions suggesting they expected this conversation to go poorly.
"I will speak plainly," Lín began, his diplomatic training warring with his personal anger. "The events of last evening have created significant complications in the relationship between the The Great Nation of Colere and the Empire."
