Grim left the arena, his mind still buzzing from the confrontation with Max. The fool had no idea what forces were truly at play. His ignorance was almost pitiable. Almost.
[You're heading to the palace now?] the voice asked, curiosity evident in its tone.
"Yes," Grim muttered, keeping his voice low enough that passersby wouldn't notice him talking to himself. "The vault won't wait any longer."
The palace loomed ahead, its white spires gleaming in the afternoon sun. Unlike most visitors, Grim didn't approach the main entrance. Instead, he circled to a less conspicuous side entrance used primarily by staff and lower-ranking officials. The guards there recognized him immediately. With his reputation from the tournament, everyone knew who he was now.
"Lord Van Ambrose," one guard acknowledged with a respectful nod. "Your presence is... unexpected."
"I have business," Grim stated, offering no further explanation.
