"Did the Current Emperor obtain anything unusual in the ninth month of the seventh year?"
Rain pattered down in drifting drops. The surrounding blue bricks were washed clean, and dampness crept into the noses of the Taoists and martial artists. An inexplicable question echoed in their ears.
They exchanged glances, staring at one another in bewilderment. It was now the end of the third month of Taikang's twelfth year. Who could know—or even remember—what unusual item the Current Emperor had obtained five years ago, in the seventh month? Especially since nothing major had happened that year!
Meng Qi had first disrupted everyone's suspicions with an unexpected counter-question. Then, relying on Daoist Yun Ji's seniority to keep those present from daring to contradict him, he had quietly seized control of the courtyard's atmosphere. Only then had he asked about the ninth month of the seventh year. But the result was unsatisfactory: the crucial point when the variable had taken effect had vanished into history?
As his thoughts turned, he was about to continue questioning them when a warm yet authoritative voice came from inside the side room. "The True Person is indeed a sage of the Daoist school. You were able to detect the anomaly in the ninth month of Taikang's seventh year amid such a turbulent situation."
Meng Qi looked over. A man with a handsome beard strode out with a noble bearing and spoke in a measured voice. "Ever since Imperial Father and the Grand Tutor launched their sudden attack and killed Master Xu during the Heaven-Worship Ceremony, I have been desperately trying to understand one thing: how could they, who were only at the Third and Fourth Tribulations in the eyes of the world, suddenly surge in strength, break through one barrier after another, and reach the Sixth