Nezha immediately realized the problem at hand—although Ao Long Wang outwardly supported Ao Bing's reforms, he still had reservations about Ao Bing wanting to stay in the human realm for a while longer instead of immediately taking on full responsibilities for the Dragon Tribe.
"Actually," Ao Bing said hesitantly, "next week is the Dragon Tribe's Inheritance Ceremony. According to tradition, I should formally take on the Prince's seal and start handling the affairs of the Dragon Tribe full-time. But I... I still want to finish my university studies and spend more time in the human realm."
Nezha asked with concern, "Have you talked to your uncle about it?"
Ao Bing shook his head. "I don't know how to bring it up. Father has dedicated his life to the Dragon Tribe, and he naturally expects me to fully commit to the role of heir. I don't want to disappoint him, but I also don't want to give up my own plans."
Li Jing nodded thoughtfully. "This is indeed a difficult choice. However, Ao Bing, since you can help Nezha clarify his thoughts, why not use the same method to resolve your own issue? Try to understand your father's perspective and then honestly express your own thoughts."
Lady Yin encouraged him as well. "Yes, Ao Bing, elders are not always unreasonable. Sometimes they just need to know your true feelings and concerns."
Ao Bing nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Uncle Li, Aunt Yin. I think I should find a suitable time to have a good talk with my father."
Nezha suddenly suggested, "Why don't we go to the Dragon Palace right now? It would be a good opportunity to prepare for the Inheritance Ceremony and also let me thank Uncle Ao in person for his trust in me."
Ao Bing hesitated a bit. "Now? Are you sure?"
Nezha nodded firmly. "The sooner we resolve this, the better. Besides, if I'm there, maybe I can help ease the atmosphere."
After some discussion, it was finally decided that Li Jing and Lady Yin would accompany Nezha and Ao Bing back to the Dragon Palace—not only for a formal visit but also to provide moral support for Ao Bing.
The trip to the Dragon Palace was arranged quickly but very formally. Li Jing specifically wore his most formal suit, Lady Yin chose an elegant qipao, and Nezha unusually donned a tie, looking particularly sharp.
At the entrance of the East Sea, the Dragon Tribe's honor guard had been waiting for some time; this was a special courtesy prepared by the Dragon King for human guests of honor. Along the way, Li Jing and Lady Yin marveled at the magnificent scenery of the Dragon Palace while Nezha expertly introduced them to the customs and culture of the Dragon Tribe.
Ao Long Wang welcomed the four into the main hall with a smile, though his eyes flickered with confusion—this visit had not been announced in advance and surely had special reasons behind it.
"Welcome, Mr. Li and Mrs. Yin," Ao Long Wang said gently. "Nezha, it's good to see you again. Ao Bing, why didn't you inform your father in advance that you were bringing guests?"
Ao Bing respectfully bowed. "Father, I apologize for interrupting. Uncle Li and his family have come specifically for a visit, and... I also have some things on my mind that I wish to discuss with you."
Ao Long Wang raised an eyebrow but did not press further; instead, he invited everyone to take a seat and ordered tea to be served. After some small talk, Ao Long Wang finally got straight to the point: "Ao Bing, what is it that you wish to discuss with your father?"
Taking a deep breath and summoning his courage, Ao Bing looked directly into his father's eyes. "Father, regarding next week's Inheritance Ceremony... I would like to postpone it."
Ao Long Wang's expression immediately turned serious. "Postpone? Why? This is a millennia-old tradition that concerns the future of the Dragon Tribe!"
Ao Bing did not back down. "Precisely because it concerns the future of the Dragon Tribe that I wish to be fully prepared. Father, I want to complete my university studies and learn more about human knowledge and experiences; this will greatly benefit me in leading the Dragon Tribe in the future."
Ao Long Wang frowned. "Ao Bing, you already possess sufficient knowledge and capability. The Inheritance Ceremony is merely a formality; you can fulfill your duties as prince while continuing your studies."
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