"Division Head Lu, His Majesty specially ordered me to come receive you!"
Man Qingqiu's expression became exceedingly composed as she concisely explained her purpose to Lu Xuan.
Then, Man Qingqiu raised a hand and made an inviting gesture, signaling for Lu Xuan to follow her.
"In that case, I'll trouble Division Head Man."
A gentle smile rested on Lu Xuan's face as he slowly clasped his hands and gave a slight bow.
Yet Lu Xuan had no idea that from the very moment he appeared outside the imperial palace gates—
This seemingly ordinary action had spread throughout the entire Imperial Capital within merely a quarter of an hour.
Within the Imperial Capital, all the prominent and powerful factions received reports from their informants at the same time.
Even the Eight Great Families, lofty powers that controlled countless martial resources and immense authority—
As well as the mysterious Five Transcendent Factions, were all secretly watching Lu Xuan's every move.
"Hehe!"
From deep within the estates of certain court officials came faint, meaningful laughter.
"Lu Xuan?"
Someone murmured softly. "Is he the Blackbird Guard Vice Director who possesses the strength of a Nascent Soul True Person?"
"The man personally entrusted by His Majesty with presiding over the Martial Arts Grand Competition?"
There was probing curiosity and amusement in those words. "How interesting!"
Naturally, such veiled discussions were held quietly in the shadowy corners of their own estates.
And among these court officials, even Chang Mingsheng, the Left Prime Minister who stood at the head of all civil and military officials, was no exception.
Within Left Prime Minister Chang Mingsheng's estate!
Inside the main chamber, Chang Mingsheng, this official who stood at the pinnacle of power within the Great Xia Court—
Was now bowing in utmost reverence toward an empty stretch of air.