Xu Fang and his entourage flew for a while and soon arrived above the East Sea Dragon Clan's territory, directly over the East Sea Crystal Palace.
"What kind of impudent rogue dares to trespass on our Dragon Clan's land, you are truly audacious! Daoist Xu Fang!"
The patrolling dragon guards were about to reprimand the suddenly appearing being, but quickly recognized the leader. Wasn't it Daoist Xu Fang?
Their expressions instantly changed to surprise and joy. They hurried forward, cupped their hands in greeting to Xu Fang, and were extremely enthusiastic.
Some of the more proactive guards didn't say a word and dashed towards the East Sea Dragon Palace, clearly intending to notify Dragon King Ao Guang.
Xu Fang enjoyed the attention and flattery from the dragon guards. He glanced at the Golden-Winged Great Peng, the little Qilin, and Ao Xue, who were standing by the side, and let out a helpless smile.
As for that big bird and the Qilin, it was understandable, but Ao Xue was their Dragon Clan princess! She was being so thoroughly ignored?
"I feel like you're a fake Dragon Princess!"
The Golden-Winged Great Peng looked at Xu Fang, who was surrounded by admirers, and then at the somewhat forlorn Ao Xue, and sighed with emotion.
The little Qilin echoed his sentiments, feeling as though it wasn't Ao Xue returning home, but rather Senior Xu Fang returning home.
Seeing this, Ao Xue was also deeply dejected, managing only a smile that was awkward yet polite.
They had no idea that Xu Fang's prestige among the Dragon Clan was now on par with that of the Dragon King and others. The entire Dragon Clan revered him, viewing him as an idol, a divine being.
Now that he was present, let alone a Dragon Princess, even the Dragon King would struggle to quell their enthusiasm!
Fortunately, Dragon King Ao Guang arrived shortly, followed by the Dragon Kings of the other three seas.
"Alright, alright, you all may disperse and attend to your duties!"
Dragon King Ao Guang ordered the dragon guards surrounding Xu Fang to retreat. Though reluctant, the guards had no choice but to obey and leave.
Ao Guang, along with the Dragon Kings of the three seas, bowed to Xu Fang and spoke.
"Daoist Xu Fang, your arrival is a great honor. Please, come to the Crystal Palace and be seated!"
With that, he led the way, guiding Xu Fang directly towards the Crystal Palace.
"This!"
The Golden-Winged Great Peng, Ao Xue, and the little Qilin stood in place for a long time before realizing the Dragon Clan had truly overlooked their presence.
After sharing wry smiles, they shook their heads and quickly followed.
Fortunately, Ao Xue's status as Dragon Princess still held sway, and the dragon guards did not obstruct them, allowing them to pass.
However, as the three were about to depart, a dragon guard added a parting remark.
"So, the Princess has returned too. Why didn't I notice earlier?"
The Golden-Winged Great Peng and the little Qilin struggled to suppress their laughter, while Ao Xue grew even more dejected.
Perhaps I shouldn't have come back to the Dragon Clan. Why do you only have your Senior Xu Fang? Is such a prominent Dragon Princess merely a decoration?
Upon entering the East Sea Crystal Palace, Ao Guang welcomed Xu Fang to a seat. After some pleasantries, Ao Guang promptly inquired.
"Daoist Xu Fang, what brings you to the Dragon Clan this time? Is there still trouble at Penglai Immortal Island?"
As Ao Guang spoke, he immediately patted his chest and declared.
"Daoist Xu Fang, please speak your mind. You are now settled in the East Sea, and we are neighbors. My daughter is also by Daoist Xu Fang's side. Oh, it seems you have also come."
Ao Guang mentioned his daughter Ao Xue, finally noticing the presence of Ao Xue and the other two. Ao Xue was instantly thrilled, thinking her father finally cared about her!
However, before she could express her long-held yearning to Ao Guang, his gaze had already shifted away from her, and he continued to look at Xu Fang.
"Therefore, Daoist Xu Fang, your difficulties are the Dragon Clan's difficulties. Whatever you need, please say so, and our Dragon Clan will not refuse!"
After Ao Guang finished speaking, the other three Dragon Kings also voiced their support, expressing the Dragon Clan's high regard for Xu Fang.
They had previously sought to win Xu Fang over. After the battle at Penglai Immortal Island, having witnessed Xu Fang's formidable network of contacts, they became even more convinced of his extraordinary nature.
Now that they all resided in the East Sea, it was crucial to maintain good neighborly relations and firmly bind Xu Fang to the Dragon Clan.
Xu Fang listened to the words of the Four Dragon Kings, observing their earnest expressions and sensing their sincerity. He quickly responded.
"Rest assured, Penglai Immortal Island is no longer in danger. With the Heavenly Dao oath in place, the Demon Clan should not dare to return. As for other minor threats, they are not to be feared."
Xu Fang spoke, indicating that the Four Dragon Kings should be at ease. He then inquired curiously.
"Speaking of which, the matter of Penglai Immortal Island has been settled. Why have the three of you not yet returned to your respective seas?"
Xu Fang looked at the Dragon Kings of the three seas. The four Dragon Kings each presided over one sea, leading their respective Dragon Clans. Now, all four were gathered in the East Sea Dragon Clan territory, which was rather peculiar.
Could it be that some unforeseen event had occurred within the Dragon Clan?
Sensing Xu Fang's gaze, the Dragon Kings of the three seas exchanged glances, unsure how to answer. Finally, they all looked towards Dragon King Ao Guang.
"Daoist Xu Fang is our ally, so there is no harm in explaining the matter."
Ao Guang did not beat around the bush and spoke directly.
"Originally, the three of them were scheduled to return to their respective seas to continue leading the Dragon Clan after assisting Daoist Xu Fang.
However, due to some unforeseen circumstances, they did not return with the main Dragon Clan forces and remained here."
Upon hearing this, Xu Fang inwardly confirmed his suspicions and a thought struck him.
"On that day when the Dragon Clan rendered aid to Penglai Immortal Island, you, Dragon King, also mentioned something similar.
Is the matter that has been troubling you the same issue you spoke of then?"
Hearing this, the curiosity of the Golden-Winged Great Peng and the others was piqued, and they all looked towards Ao Guang.
"You truly cannot hide anything from Daoist Xu Fang!"
Ao Guang admitted to the matter and then explained to Xu Fang.
"The incident that occurred that day was initially suppressed. However, upon our return to the Dragon Clan, it resurfaced. The three of them were concerned and stayed to assist me.
However, after such a long time, the problem still remains unresolved!"
Speaking of this, the Four Dragon Kings became dejected. They had initially thought it was just a sudden issue, but it turned out to be a persistent problem. Now, they were still at a loss.
"Is it that serious?"
Xu Fang was greatly alarmed. What kind of matter could cause the Four Dragon Kings to gather, yet still be unable to find a solution?
Ao Guang and the Dragon Kings of the three seas exchanged glances, and then prepared to reveal everything to Xu Fang.
Just then, the Crystal Palace suddenly began to shake violently. Everything within swayed, and Xu Fang and the others felt themselves reeling, as if an earthquake had struck!