However, Geoffrey was now the leading competitor for the emperor's heir. And if he succeeded and became the emperor's heir, the Qi Clan would certainly get his support and protection. If the Qi Clan gained the upper hand, the Cao Clan would most definitely lose.
Therefore, Lucilla only had two paths in front of her. One was to unite with the Qi Clan by marriage, and by doing that, she would be on the same side as Geoffrey. With the support of the Qi Clan and the Cao Clan, Geoffrey would certainly win the throne. The other path that she could take was to draw a clear line with Prince Geoffrey and the Qi Clan. If she announced in public that the Cao Clan would support Woods, they would be putting the future of the Cao Clan on him. Undoubtedly, Prince Geoffrey would consider them his enemies from that moment on.
"I feel so nervous that Your Royal Highness has personally proposed marriage for the Qi Clan, but I can't force myself to do so. I don't have any feelings for Mr. Tate, and there is already someone else in my heart," Lucilla said politely to Prince Geoffrey. She was now in a dilemma, especially in this case. She couldn't refuse Geoffrey directly, or that might cause disaster to the Cao Clan. If she had known earlier that this would happen, she would have agreed to Rocky's proposal then and there. At least, that way, Geoffrey would have no excuse to force her.
"The one in Chief Lucilla's heart... Could this be Mr. Rookie?" Geoffrey smiled and glanced at Rocky.
"Yes, and he just proposed to me." Hearing this, Lucilla nodded noncommittally. At this point, she knew that she she was only delaying but the end was unavoidable.
"Mr. Rookie is indeed a rare talent, but don't forget, as the chief of the Cao Clan, you have to consider the interests and future of the Cao Clan. If the Cao Clan and the Qi Clan unite by marriage, it will be a good thing for the Cao Clan and the Timber Deity Empire. Moreover, I can guarantee that one day, the Cao Clan may get a better position than the present one. I believe that you will never regret today's decision as long as you choose to stand by me." Geoffrey's last words were undoubtedly a hint to Lucilla. If he got the throne, the Cao Clan, which was allied by marriage with the Qi Clan, would also benefit from him.
The other people who overheard also understood the meaning of Geoffrey's words. There were also some doubts in their hearts because most of the forces present, as well as the other members of the royal family and celebrities, had already taken their sides, supporting the other princes respectively. However, if the Qi Clan and the Cao Clan were to unite by marriage under the urging of Geoffrey, then the other princes would definitely have no advantages to compete for the throne. Therefore, if the Qi Clan and the Cao Clan really unite, they would have to think about their future really carefully.
It could be said that whether the Cao Clan agreed to the proposal of the Qi Clan or not, their confrontation was no longer a secret between them that would affect only them. Instead, it was very likely to affect the whole situation regarding the competition for the emperor's successor.
That was why Geoffrey chose this time to appear in the Magnificent Hall. He wanted to seize this opportunity to win the throne. His scheming was truly top of the line!
"What you said makes sense, Your Royal Highness. But can I think about it for a few more days? After all, it's a big deal for me and the Cao Clan..." Seeing that Geoffrey had made it so clear, Lucilla could only bite her pink lips to stall for time.
On the other hand, Geoffrey frowned and looked overbearing as he said, "Actually, I hoped that this matter will be settled tonight."
Of course, Geoffrey wouldn't give Lucilla any chance, and he was only saying these things to put pressure on her. Lucilla also saw through Geoffrey's mind. She hesitated for a moment, and then said to him, "Please have a seat for a while, Your Royal Highness. I have to call several elders of the Cao Clan to discuss this matter..."
As Lucilla spoke, she nodded at Lucas, and they left silently together. At the other side of the room, Tod and Freddy exchanged quick glances before they, too, followed after them. Seeing this, Rocky seemed to fall deep in thought for a moment, and then he disappeared into the shadows of the Magnificent Hall before everyone noticed.
"Your Royal Highness, you came at the right time!" After Lucilla, Lucas, and others left, Alexander moved closer to Geoffrey's side and spoke to him discreetly.
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