Old Daoist Liu was surprised by Meng Zhao's keen nose, but his expression did not waver. He nodded and said,
"Of course I know. The Emperor is the supreme ruler of the dynasty. The Imperial Clan Court is merely a blade in the Emperor's hand, one used against the imperial clan. Whatever the Grand Master of the Imperial Clan knows, the Emperor must know. What the Grand Master of the Imperial Clan does not know, the Emperor may still know."
"Oh? If so, then the Emperor has tacitly permitted Beitang Xing's existence. Could it be that he truly intends to make him the heir apparent?"
Meng Zhao's words seemed to come out of nowhere, but Old Daoist Liu could hear the hidden implication. Whoever bore Imperial Fate and Imperial Aura, even if he were a Prince, was a threat to the reigning Emperor.
Unless Beitang Sheng truly intended to establish Beitang Xing as heir apparent and hand the entire realm of Great Yong over to him in the future.
Otherwise, even if they were father and son, even if he did not strike directly, he would certainly employ corresponding means to restrain the other. This was the art of power, regardless of whether the other was his blood descendant.
"How could a small fry like me possibly fathom the Emperor's intentions? You ask this old Daoist such a question, but I truly have no answer."
"Then let me ask another way. Who assigned you to Beitang Xing's side—the Grand Master of the Imperial Clan, or the Emperor?"
This time, Old Daoist Liu finally could not remain seated. A trace of shock appeared in his eyes as he said,
"How could you say such a thing? Has Dragon King Meng not overstepped his bounds?"
"Daoist, do not blame me. I am