```
The atmosphere in the main hall grew increasingly oppressive.
Sitting at the head seat, Bai Mu gazed at the many patriarchs of the Thirteen Lines in front of him, his expression gradually turning somber.
He had long heard that during his time secluded for healing, there were many small movements within the Thirteen Lines.
Taking advantage of his absence, they slowly encroached on his power, his influence.
In his eyes, these people were like wolves circling him, watching him closely.
Once they saw his weakness, they all straightened up and approached him.
For some reason, a sense of powerlessness suddenly arose in Bai Mu's heart.
Though the court of Great Zhou was strong, it spread thin, and when faced with the local tyrants entrenched for years, they could only bow their heads.
Shen Qing, sitting at the far end, couldn't help but sigh in his heart as he saw Bai Mu's repressed expression.
