As soon as Caron and Leo returned, their report began without delay in the conference room within the main building of Azureocean Castle.0

In Halo's absence, the true authority over Azureocean Castle lay with Yung Leston, the First Elder. Yung was a man who rarely showed himself, but he had personally made the journey to the conference room with heavy, deliberate steps.1

There was a simple reason for his presence. That was because Caron's modification of the Ocean Dominance Arts had been discovered.0

"Caron, are you aware that there's been a serious deviation in your mana cultivation method?" Yung asked, his voice solemn.0

"Yes, First Elder," Caron replied calmly.0

"For someone who has defied the family's legacy, your attitude is far too arrogant. Do you not realize the seriousness of your actions?" Yung's sharp gaze bore into Caron.0

The Ocean Dominance Arts was the cornerstone of the Ducal Family of Leston. Altering it without permission was a grave offense—one that could result in expulsion from the family. That was why the First Elder had personally intervened.0

Caron's two uncles exchanged covert smiles as they sat in the room, while Fayle glanced at his son with restless anxiety.0

Oh, Caron, what in the world were you thinking? Fayle thought.0

Despite lacking mana abilities himself, he understood how reckless it was to tamper with the Ocean Dominance Arts.0

And yet, despite committing such a serious transgression, Caron's expression remained serenely composed. In fact, he even glanced at his uncles and smiled faintly.0

He was a clever and calculating son, and clearly had something up his sleeve.0

"First Elder, may I offer an explanation?" Caron asked, his tone...0