Húwáng received Grim and Ruxi in his private study.
Grim sat across from the Fox King, with Ruxi positioned where she could observe both men's expressions during what promised to be a delicate discussion.
"The council session was eventful, if nothing else" Húwáng began carefully, pouring tea in between sentences."I assume you're curious about the deliberations."
"I am," Grim replied, accepting the offered cup while studying the king's expression for clues about the outcome. "Though I suspect the results were mixed given the time required for discussion."
"Indeed," Húwáng confirmed. "The elders are divided. Three support comprehensive evaluation before any approval, five favor conditional approval with appropriate safeguards, and one requests additional information before making final decisions."
Ruxi leaned forward with obvious concern. "What kind of evaluation are they considering?"
