Robert could feel the weight of his father's approval, but his thoughts were already racing ahead to the next hurdle. The market transfer was important, sure, but it was just one piece of a much bigger puzzle.
"Father", Robert said, leaning forward in his chair, "we need to talk about the clan's overall strength. If we are going to face what is coming, we need to focus on increasing our cultivation levels across the clan."
John nodded slowly, mulling it over. "You make a good point. We have been so preoccupied with the immediate threats that we have not looked at our overall strengths."
He reached for a small bell on his desk and rang it once.
A servant appeared almost immediately. "Yes, Clan Head?"
"Please ask Elder Devon, Lady Mary, and Elder Alex to come to my study. Tell them it is urgent clan business."
"Right away, sir." The servant bowed and hurried out.
