Zhao Junhong realized that he was being too extreme just now. The Imperial family and the aristocracy would never interfere with each other’s internal affairs.

Although the clan lords could only be appointed by the Emperor, that was just a formality. The candidates were submitted by the clans themselves. There was once an incident where two clan lord candidates were submitted to the Imperial court. The archives department sent both submissions back since they weren’t interested in whatever internal dispute was going on.

As expected, the Radiant Emperor’s reason was:

“Duke Rong is my nephew so to speak. I rarely see Sister Gaoyi now that she has been demoted, only at family banquets and such, but I’m greatly delighted to see that her beloved child is now an outstanding person. I wonder if Jundu has any intention to split off from the family? The land in Tiansui County isn’t bad, but it doesn’t suit you very well. The Imperial family’s reserve territory might be smaller, but it’s rich in natural resources and should serve you better.”

Zhao Jundu was puzzled upon hearing such words, so he only gave a vague reply.

The Radiant Emperor said, “The Zhao clan is full of courageous warriors and is a pillar of the Empire, but it’s also within reason for me to bestow the Imperial family’s land to my sister’s son. Jundu, it’s fine to let me know once you’ve thought it through.”

That was the extent of the conversation between the two. The Emperor left via the void afterward, probably leaving the continent directly.

Zhao Junhong couldn’t help but laugh ruefully. He had almost forgotten that the Radiant Emperor was actually their uncle, a relative within three generations. They were even more closely related to the Imperial family than Duke You’s branch. There was nothing wrong...