The leader cannot be absent for long periods without the family suffering damages. Octavius, with his dominant personality, was the sole reason for maintaining order, and now he is gone. Alexander is strong but not strict enough, and people don't consider his blood pure. Lionel has only recently regained himself and is not deemed strong enough to take Maximus's place.
Without a king, from my perspective, these people have about five years before the family suffers irreparable damage, possibly more.
Lionel was smiling while watching the proceedings. The rest of Darian's party—Valeria and Marcus—were on the verge of intervening, while Milena still appeared neutral.
"!"
Alexander suddenly slammed the wooden table, creating a loud noise that echoed throughout the room without causing any damage.
"If fights weren't prohibited here, I would have skinned some of you on my way out! but I can't. Be silent, or I'll break one of the rules today!"