A Tiger in Its Twilight Years Can Still Soften Its Heart

Outside a secluded courtyard in the imperial city.

Ye Lan stood quietly against the cold wall, her arms wrapped around her sword.

Ever since she had noticed something amiss with the maid last time, she had simply remained here. Though her cultivation alone could accomplish nothing within this imperial city, at the very least, besides the Immortal Office, the Human Emperor would still have a channel through which to send information out.

She lifted her eyes toward the pitch-black canopy of the sky, her thoughts drifting toward the continents she had never set foot upon.

Just then, hurried footsteps rapidly approached.

Ye Lan turned her head. The armored woman was General Gu Li, who had brought back news last time.

She straightened up involuntarily and stared blankly at the other woman.

"..."

Gu Li likewise assessed this close attendant by the Human Emperor's side. This sword cultivator, who had only reached the fourth rank, was the only person besides Lin Shuya who could freely enter and leave this courtyard.

Though she did not know what this woman was responsible for, she could see the tension in Ye Lan's eyes, one that could not be concealed no matter what.

After pondering briefly, Gu Li smiled. "Come with me. It's good news."

The two women swiftly entered the courtyard. After waiting for the maid to announce them, they headed straight for the wine pool.

"Ha!"

In the wine pool, the decrepit old man stretched hard. By now, very few things besides that boy's letters could stir his interest.

Of course, the Human Emperor's waning energy was no longer enough to support much thought. He had even begun to forget his past experiences—a sign that the imperial aura had eroded him too deeply.

Gu Li was just about to speak when heavy breathing