"The imperial court's Zhi Xuan Department is conducting official business. All unrelated persons, withdraw at once!"
Just as the Daoists were plotting in secret, a voice suddenly rang out from outside, carrying the clamor of weapons. Faintly, they could hear cries of resistance and screams.
"Hmm? Has the plot been exposed?"
The Daoists exchanged glances, feeling as if a basin of cold water had been poured over their heads. A bone-deep chill seized them.
No matter how much they looked down on the Great Wu Dynasty, they knew it had unified the Central Plains and laid deep foundations. Their conspiracy might have had a chance of success if they acted in secret, but once it was exposed and their enemies were on guard, they would have no chance at all!
"Move!"
Hearing the cries of battle draw closer, the Daoists leaped out of the secret chamber, talismanic light shimmering over their bodies.
"By imperial decree, the remnants of the Qingning Gate and other Daoist lineages are plotting rebellion. Their crimes are unforgivable. All involved sects are to be branded Evil Cults, and their members are to be killed without exception!"
The main gate was smashed open with a crash. An old Daoist wearing a golden crown and a five-colored brocade robe swept a whisk woven from ice-silkworm silk. His voice rang out like pearls scattering across the scene.
"Lackeys of the imperial court! Tian Xiang the Daoist, you've fallen so low of your own accord. Aren't you afraid your ancestors of the Four Symbols Sect will be shamed in the underworld?"
The Daoists roared at him one after another.
The richly dressed Daoist who had entered was none other than Tian Xiang, Sect Master of the Four Symbols Sect. Since submitting to the court, he had steadily assisted Wu Zhi