Other guards led the palace guards and maids brought by the lobster chief steward to accompany the sides of the procession, leaving ample space for His Highness and the chief steward to talk.
Ao Han said evenly, "It has been a long time since I last saw Father, and I miss him very much. Since he has been waiting for me for several days, I ought to go pay my respects at once."
The giant lobster bowed, his tone respectful. "Your Highness's filial devotion could surely move heaven and earth. As it happens, His Majesty has seemed rather out of sorts these past few days. If Your Highness were to pay your respects, a reunion between father and son might cheer His Majesty up."
Ao Han looked at the giant lobster, his gaze shifting slightly, and said tentatively, "If Father is happy, then naturally I will be happy too."
The giant lobster hurriedly nodded in agreement. "Of course, of course! If His Majesty and Your Highness are happy as father and son, that is a wonderful thing for the entire East Sea. However... if Your Highness were first to deliver the consort's birthday gifts to her chambers and enjoy a reunion between mother and son, then go with her to see His Majesty, such a harmonious scene would naturally be even more moving."
Ao Han understood. The lobster chief steward was offering him advice.
He followed up with a question. "Then how has my mother been lately?"
A trace of hesitation appeared on the giant lobster's face.
Seeing this, Ao Han said nothing more and promptly slipped another ten dragon scales into his hand.
Saying, "Oh, I couldn't, Your Highness is far too kind," the giant lobster swiftly tucked the dragon scales into his sleeve, then leaned closer and said: