Despite having lived for over ten thousand years, the old Dragon King had only a dozen or so sons and a few daughters, and that was after marrying more than ten consorts.
The dozen or so True Dragons in a consort's family might not sound like many, but within the Dragon Clan, they were already a powerful force that could not be underestimated.
When the princes fought for the throne in the future, the strength of their mothers' families would often have to be counted in determining the ultimate victor.
That was why every Succession Struggle among the princes threw the four seas into turmoil.
When the maternal clans intervened, the Dragon Clan groups drawn into the conflict often encompassed the entire clan.
And as the royal clan of the four seas, any major event within the Dragon Clan would naturally shake all four seas.
They watched the consort and His Highness enter the study's courtyard gate and disappear from sight.
Those in the side hall suddenly lost interest in continuing their conversation.
Their hearts were unsettled, as though a great boulder weighed upon them. Each lowered his head to stare at the candied fruits and fresh fruit on the low table before him, yet their gazes wandered, as though they had never seen such exquisite little treats before.
They waited like that for who knew how long.
Just as their anxiety mounted, the study's courtyard gate opened. His Highness Ao Han emerged alone, his expression grave and his steps hurried, though they could not make out his precise expression.
The Lobster Chief Steward appeared from somewhere, trotted up to greet him, and exchanged a few quiet words with him before leading him toward their side hall.
At this, they exchanged glances and could no longer remain seated. They rose