People from the Holy Dragon Empire did not have the faintest idea if Bryant would agree to the marriage proposal from the acting emperor. In effect, the Ximen Clan could refuse, but the acting emperor made the proposal himself and it would not be a good idea for them to say no. Once the Ximen Clan agreed to the acting emperor's offer for their daughter, the clan would be absolutely affiliated with the royal family. Next to the royal family, the Ximen Clan was the second most powerful clan in the entire Holy Dragon Empire. However, this was bound to change the moment they joined hands with the royal family through marriage. Controlled by the royal family, the Ximen Clan would become the strongest force behind Alston. If this happened, people would be compelled to obey Alston at all times, and he would emerge as the most powerful man in the entire Holy Dragon Empire.
On the other hand, if Bryant refused the proposal, the royal family and the Ximen Clan would become enemies. Alston could use this as an excuse to overthrow the Ximen Clan or suppress their power. This would definitely cause a clash between the two powerful clans.
Because of this, the Ximen Clan struggled to make their decision. They knew they could not refuse Alston and keep their peace at the same time.
Pressed to make a decision, Bryant together with several founding members and important elders convened inside the hall used for the official business meeting of the Ximen Clan. The decision was crucial and had to be made soon.
"Chief, we cannot agree with the marriage. Alston will control us if we do. The Holy Dragon Empire's state of affairs has worsened since he became the acting emperor. If Alston takes control of our Ximen Clan, he would have more power to oppress the people and his enemies!" a founding member proposed firmly.
"You can't say that. If we agree to the marriage with the royal family, we can establish our position in the empire and surpass the power of all the other clans. It is also an opportunity to join up with other clans. Once our power is strong enough, then we can take a stand against the royal family and regain full control of our clan in the future," another founding member argued. It filled his voice with confidence and ambition.
The other founding mem
.
"Let me think about it some more. You may go now!" Bryant waved his hand to dismiss them.
Everyone left the hall in silence.
Before long, a delicate figure walked inside the hall. She saw the worried look on Bryant's face, and she knew that he was thinking about the marriage situation to the royal family.
"Grandpa..." the figure said in a low voice.
It was Shirley. She had grown more beautiful and elegant than a year ago when she went to the imperial tomb to worship Basil. Her aura was now close to the Supernal Stage.
Normally, it was not possible for Shirley to reach the Supernal Stage at such a young age. However, her grandfather was a top master at the Immortal Stage and that made it attainable for her. For the past year, Bryant made sure Shirley advanced in her strength as fast as she could. Regardless if it required his own spiritual power. He maximized the use of his men and material resources so he could collect all kinds of rare treasures that would help increase her spiritual power. All this was to prepare Shirley and make her powerful enough before she took over the position of the chief of the Ximen Clan.
"Shirley, why are you here? I told you to entertain the guests in the front hall." Bryant's face softened as he saw his granddaughter.
"You know I can't stand them!" Shirley's beautiful face did not hide her displeasure. Still, she remained charming in the eyes of her grandfather.
"Then come and sit with me. I have something to ask you," Bryant said with a smile.