Jiangdong, Huanming City, atop Star-Plucking Tower.
Demon Cultivator Xiao Shan, now the Commander of the Imperial City Bureau, had long shed the humility of thirty years ago. Every gesture now carried the noble air of one who wielded power.
After all, the Imperial City Bureau was now the Dao Court's largest department. Though he was not particularly strong, as its head, his status was no less than that of the Three Dukes of old. Even so, when he ascended Star-Plucking Tower, his face remained full of reverence.
He had not even used escape light to fly straight to the summit.
Instead, he climbed Star-Plucking Tower step by step, following the spiraling stairs upward until, at last, the world suddenly seemed vast and boundless.
Before him stood a high platform.
Clouds rolled and unfurled upon it, sun and moon shining together as they jointly guarded a figure seated with his back to all living beings. Looking at him was like looking upon an entire world.
"Your humble servant greets His Majesty!"
Xiao Shan drew a deep breath and gazed at the figure atop the platform with utmost devotion. As soon as he spoke, he fell prostrate without hesitation, performing a full-body salute.
Heaven and earth fell silent.
Only after a long while did the figure speak softly. Though it was the voice of one who governed the world, it carried an indescribable loneliness and desolation.
"...Rise."
"Thank you, Your Majesty!"
Xiao Shan knocked his head heavily against the ground before rising. "Your Majesty, all the tasks you assigned have been completed. Everything is ready. The Imperial City Bureau has not failed its mission!"
"Good."
Lu Yang nodded, then smiled. "You have all worked hard these years. Do not remain in Huanming City any longer. Go overseas. It will be safer there."