Cloud Pool was far livelier than before. Nobles of every rank from across Mingdu had gathered there, and at a glance, there were likely more than three hundred people.
Yet nobles, too, had their own hierarchy. Many newly risen nobles and old aristocratic families did not get along, with almost no interaction between them.
"His Majesty the Emperor has arrived!"
Just as the atmosphere at Cloud Pool reached its peak, a shout from an attendant of the Sun Moon Royal Soul Tool Legion instantly silenced the entire venue.
In perfect unison, everyone turned to look in the same direction.
'Xu Tianran' calmly met the nobles' gazes. The deep authority in his eyes carried imperial majesty, making everyone who met his gaze lower their heads unconsciously.
Even veteran princes such as Xu Guozhong and Xu Tianyuan could not help but feel shaken. They could not understand how Xu Tianran's imperial bearing had suddenly become so overwhelming.
While the nobles pondered this inwardly, 'Xu Tianran' was pushed to the seat of honor.
Ju Zi sat beside him with a gentle expression.
The three Rank 9 Soul Tool Masters withdrew into the shadows.
"Cloud Pool has not been this lively in many years. Please, take your seats." Huo Yuhao, disguised as Xu Tianran, swept his gaze across the crowd and spoke in a mild tone.
"Yes, Your Majesty." The nobles responded in unison, then took their seats according to the arrangements made earlier.
The nobles then looked respectfully toward Xu Tianran, waiting for Your Majesty the Emperor to speak.
Before everyone present, 'Xu Tianran' suddenly smiled gently and patted Ju Zi's fair little hand. Ju Zi returned his smile.
The two of them looked exceptionally loving.
Then, Ju Zi touched her stomach with a blissful expression.
That small gesture was instantly noticed by