Before Ryan could visit Count Clayton's residence, Aatrox, Count Clayton's eldest son, had already appeared before him.
"Ryan, it's been a long time."
"Brother."
Ryan nodded. Given their current statuses, it was hard to say who ranked higher.
"Father is very busy right now, dealing with the Empire and the nobles. But the matter you mentioned cannot be delayed any longer."
That was what Aatrox said. Ryan nodded; he naturally felt the same. Deep Sea Lord Kraken could change his mind at any moment. No one could guarantee that the will of a Great Existence would remain the same tomorrow as it was today.
"Still, no matter how urgent it is, the Imperial Capital remains our top priority."
"There are not many obstacles left standing before the Clayton bloodline."
"No one can question the glorious honor of our bloodline, nor can anyone doubt that we possess the power of Demigods."
Ryan and Aatrox returned to Ryan's baronial residence. There were matters of importance that both sides needed to understand.
"For the past several decades, Father has fought across the South and the North, shedding untold blood for the Empire. On top of that, we already have a large number of nobles as allies. In terms of prestige and influence, we are qualified to become a Grand Duke."
"Furthermore, Father killed Solarian. The Crimson Spear has been recognized as the remains of a Demigod dragon. With the Clayton Family possessing Demigod-level power, no noble can question us anymore."
"At present, the doubts within the Imperial Palace regarding Father mainly come from the Extraordinary Legion. Beneath that are many other troubles, such as myself."
Aatrox pointed at himself. "They even believe that an heir of the Clayton Family like me will allow the Clayton bloodline to be tainted by the Abyss. The