As Sinclairmon departed, some of the Council Hall members began discussing the matter with barely concealed glee.
"So there was an Inheritance Mark!"
"With an Inheritance Mark, there's nothing left to question."
"This kid should've brought it out sooner! He was clearly just messing with everyone!"
"Cao Guan and Sinclairmon even wanted to take back the Baron Seal from him. This kid's got quite a devious streak."
Hearing those remarks, Cao Guan could no longer remain seated. His face turned pale and ugly as he shot Wang Teng a vicious glare.
At that moment, he felt like an ant on a hot griddle during the meeting, suffering unbearably.
But unlike Sinclairmon, he lacked the status to leave without authorization.
"Wang Teng, there is no issue with your status as the heir. However, if you wish to inherit the Baron Title, you must still undergo the Council Hall's assessment," the elder seated at the head said again.
"An assessment?" Wang Teng frowned.
"That's right. Everyone who succeeds to a title must undergo an assessment. This is an imperial regulation. Those whose virtue does not match their position, or whose potential is insufficient, cannot inherit a title," the elder said.
Wang Teng nodded and asked, "When will I undergo the assessment?"
"There is no rush. We need to discuss the assessment together before informing you of its contents," the elder said. "Moreover, Cao Hongtu, as the former acting baron, must return before this matter can be settled. He has rendered considerable service over the years. It cannot simply be erased with a word."
Wang Teng frowned again. He always felt this matter was not so simple, but since the elder had put it this way, it was clear this could not be resolved with mere words.
"You may return and await