Reborn as the Last van Ambrose
Chapter 252: Debate

Chapter 252: Debate

The council chamber felt different when occupied solely by the nine-tailed elders. Without the presence of lesser court members the atmosphere felt more tense.

Elder Míngzhì sat rigidly in his customary position, his nine silver-streaked tails arranged with precise formality around his chair. The other eight elders had taken their designated seats.

"The formal session is convened," Húwáng announced, his voice carrying across the circular chamber. "We gather to deliberate Lord Ambrose’s petition for marriage alliance with Princess Ruxi and integration into our realm."

"Before we proceed," Elder Míngzhì interjected, rising with ceremonial precision, "I move that this deliberation address the broader implications of human integration rather than focusing solely on individual compatibility."

Several elders exchanged glances at the formal challenge to the session’s intended scope. Míngzhì was effectively demanding that they evaluate Grim as a representative of humanity rather than as a specific suitor.

"The motion is noted," Húwáng replied diplomatically. "Though I suggest we consider individual qualifications and broader implications as related rather than separate issues."

"Agreed," Elder Zhìhuì said, his political expertise clearly engaged. "Lord Ambrose’s personal characteristics provide our primary evidence for evaluating human potential for successful integration."

Elder Qīngfēng, whose specialization in foreign relations made her naturally suspicious of outsiders, spoke next. "I’ve observed Lord Ambrose’s behavior carefully since his arrival. His combat demonstration against Xùyán showed adaptability and restraint, while his participation in the Moonlight Reverence displayed genuine respect for our traditions."

"Respectful behavior during formal ceremonies proves little about long-term compatibility," Míngzhì countered. "Humans excel at temporary proceedings when it serves their immediate interests."

"That’s a rather cynical assumption," Elder Cháng observed. He was generally supportive of new influences that could strengthen existing traditions. "Lord Ambrose’s willingness to submit to formal evaluation suggests commitment beyond mere political convenience."

"Or sophisticated manipulation," Míngzhì replied sharply. "His reputation in human politics demonstrates considerable skill at presenting favorable impressions while pursuing personal objectives."

Elder Xuěhuā, who had remained neutral during previous discussions, leaned forward with obvious interest. "Perhaps we should examine specific evidence rather than debating general assumptions about human nature."

"An excellent suggestion," agreed Elder Míngjìng, whose legal background made him naturally inclined toward evidence-based deliberation. "What specific behaviors have we observed that support or contradict Lord Ambrose’s suitability?"

Elder Tiānkōng, who is responsible for spiritual matters, spoke for the first time during the session. "During the Moonlight Reverence, Lord Ambrose received direct communication from our ancestors. Such contact is extremely rare and suggests spiritual compatibility that transcends species boundaries."

"Spiritual compatibility with our ancestors is certainly significant," acknowledged Elder Wénhuà. "However, we have no recorded examples of successful human integration to guide our evaluation."

"Which makes this decision particularly important," Húwáng observed. "Whatever precedent we establish will influence future interactions between our species."

Míngzhì seized on this point. "Precisely why we must proceed with extreme caution. Lord Ambrose may possess admirable individual qualities, but approving his integration effectively opens our realm to human influence on an unprecedented scale."

"Not necessarily," Elder Zhìhuì countered. "Marriage alliance with Princess Ruxi would integrate one individual, not establish general immigration policies. We could approve this specific case while maintaining strict standards for future requests."

"Naive thinking," Míngzhì replied curtly. "Successful integration of one human will inevitably lead to pressure for additional exceptions. Political dynamics make such escalation virtually inevitable."

Elder Qīngfēng considered this argument carefully. "Elder Míngzhì raises valid concerns about precedent, but I believe his fears may be exaggerated. Lord Ambrose’s unique position—as heir to a major house and founder of a cultivation sect—makes him an exceptional case rather than a typical example."

"Furthermore," added Elder Cháng, "his demonstrated commitment to learning our ways suggests genuine interest in adaptation rather than conquest or domination."

"Demonstrated commitment over a few weeks proves nothing about long-term intentions," Míngzhì insisted. "Humans have notoriously short attention spans and volatile temperaments. What happens when the novelty of our customs wears off and his true nature reasserts itself?"

Elder Tiānkōng stroked his beard thoughtfully. "During our spiritual ceremony, I sensed genuine transformation in Lord Ambrose’s understanding. The ancestors’ acceptance wasn’t given lightly—they evaluated his character thoroughly before granting communication."

"I don’t dispute the ancestors’ wisdom," Míngzhì replied with careful respect. "But they judged his potential, not his guaranteed future development. Potential can be wasted or corrupted by circumstances and choices."

The debate continued for another hour, with various elders presenting arguments based on their areas of expertise. Military concerns, diplomatic implications, economic considerations, and cultural preservation all received thorough discussion.

Elder Wénhuà eventually shifted the conversation’s direction. "Perhaps we should consider what Lord Ambrose offers our realm beyond his personal qualities. His connections to human political and economic systems could provide significant benefits."

"At what cost?" Míngzhì demanded. "Increased human contact inevitably leads to cultural contamination. Their emphasis on rapid advancement and individual achievement conflicts fundamentally with our values of harmony and community consideration."

"But selective contact could provide advantages without threatening our core principles," Elder Zhìhuì suggested. "Lord Ambrose’s political expertise could help us navigate increasingly complex relationships with human kingdoms."

"And his cultivation achievements are genuinely remarkable," added Elder Tiānkōng. "Four mana hearts at his age suggests exceptional potential that could benefit our understanding of magical development."

Míngzhì’s expression hardened. "You’re advocating that we compromise our principles to gain access to human knowledge and connections. That path leads inevitably to subordinating our interests to theirs."

"No one is suggesting subordination," Húwáng interjected firmly. "We’re discussing partnership based on mutual benefit and respect."

"Partnership requires equality," Míngzhì replied. "Lord Ambrose’s methods in human politics demonstrate a preference for dominance over cooperation. How long before he attempts to apply those methods here?"

Elder Míngjìng had been listening carefully to all arguments. "The legal framework for such integration would need careful construction to protect our realm’s autonomy while providing appropriate safeguards against abuse."

"What safeguards could possibly constrain someone with Lord Ambrose’s power and connections?" Míngzhì asked skeptically.

"Traditional binding oaths reinforced by magical compulsion," Míngjìng replied. "Sworn commitment to our realm’s welfare with automatic consequences for betrayal."

"Magical compulsion against someone of his cultivation level might prove ineffective," Qīngfēng observed. "And his political sophistication could find ways around oath restrictions."

"True," admitted Míngjìng. "Though the attempt would provide some protection and demonstrate his willingness to accept constraints on his behavior."

The discussion was reaching a natural conclusion. Each elder had presented their primary arguments, and the fundamental divisions were becoming clear.

"I believe we should proceed to preliminary voting," Húwáng announced. "This will not constitute final approval, but will indicate the council’s general inclination and identify areas requiring further consideration."

"I motion for comprehensive evaluation before any approval," Míngzhì said formally. "Lord Ambrose should be required to demonstrate sustained commitment to our values and provide binding guarantees about his future conduct."

"I second the motion," Qīngfēng added, though her tone suggested less certainty than Míngzhì’s.

"I motion for conditional approval with appropriate safeguards," countered Elder Zhìhuì. "Lord Ambrose has demonstrated sufficient worthiness to justify proceeding with formal integration planning."

"Seconded," agreed Elder Cháng immediately.

Elder Tiānkōng considered both positions carefully. "I support evaluation, but believe it should focus on spiritual and cultural compatibility rather than political guarantees."

"I favor conditional approval based on legal frameworks that protect both parties," Elder Míngjìng declared.

Elder Wénhuà nodded slowly. "Historical precedent suggests caution, but also indicates that successful integration is possible under appropriate circumstances. I support conditional approval."

Elder Xuěhuā had remained thoughtful throughout the discussion. "Lord Ambrose’s unique characteristics make standard evaluation difficult. I believe we need more information before reaching final decisions."

"And Elder Qīngfēng?" Húwáng asked, noting her earlier uncertainty.

"I support evaluation," she said finally. "Though I’m open to conditional approval if appropriate safeguards can be established."

The preliminary count showed three elders supporting comprehensive evaluation before approval, five favoring conditional approval with various safeguards, and one requesting additional information. No clear consensus had emerged.

"The council is divided," Húwáng observed. "We’ll need additional discussion to reach the unanimity required for such significant decisions."

"I propose that we establish specific criteria for Lord Ambrose’s evaluation," Míngzhì suggested. "Clear standards would help focus our deliberation and provide objective measures for assessment."

"Agreed," several elders said simultaneously.

"Very well," Húwáng declared. "We’ll reconvene in five days to establish evaluation criteria and procedures. This session is concluded."