Dragon Perch Valley, rear courtyard of the Daoist Temple.
Xuan Cheng sat cross-legged on a meditation cushion, a pot of clear tea set before him as he rested with his eyes closed.
Several disciples practiced martial arts in the courtyard, their low shouts occasionally carrying through the air.
"Daoist."
Lin Mo's voice came from the courtyard entrance.
Xuan Cheng opened his eyes and saw Lin Mo striding in. He quickly rose and cupped his hands in salute. "Lord! Please, have a seat!"
Lin Mo waved a hand and walked over to sit on the stone stool opposite him.
Cao Zhengchun followed with small, quick steps, his whisk draped over his arm as he took his place behind Lin Mo.
Ru Mei also stood behind Lin Mo, hands lowered respectfully at her sides.
Several eunuchs stood at the courtyard gate as well, backs straight and gazes fixed ahead.
"Daoist, I have something to ask you."
Xuan Cheng sat back down, his expression turning solemn. "Please speak, Lord."
Lin Mo raised his right hand, and a wisp of Dark Gold light glowed at his fingertips.
The light was especially striking beneath the sun. Dark purple patterns flowed within it like two snakes coiled together.
Xuan Cheng's pupils abruptly contracted.
He stared at that wisp of light for a long while, then drew a deep breath. Even his voice trembled. "Lord, is this... dragon aura?"
Lin Mo nodded. "A dragon shadow entered my body last night."
Xuan Cheng's eyes widened further. His mouth opened and closed several times, yet he could not speak for quite a while.
He had lived for over sixty years and read countless ancient texts. He knew that dragon aura was the mark possessed only by the founding rulers of dynasties.
Xuan Cheng took another deep breath, struggling to