Chen Wei's request for the status of a Named Disciple had been a mere expedient.
Once he had that status, carrying out his duties in the Heavenly Court would be like enjoying the shade beneath a great tree. His roots and foundations were shallow, and he lacked a top-tier patron. If he could attach himself to Tusita Palace, he would shore up his last weakness.
By rights.
Chen Wei had Taibai Jinxing looking after him openly and Yang Chan protecting him in secret. He should not have lacked patrons.
But were they truly patrons he could lean on?
Taibai Jinxing was doing it out of regard for Yang Chan, while Yang Chan's background could not be invoked too often, lest it trigger a backlash.
After weighing it over and over, he could only set his sights on the Dao Ancestor.
Unfortunately, Taishang Laojun had lived through countless yuanhui. How could his discerning eyes fail to see the calculations in Chen Wei's heart?
Laojun fell silent for a moment, then suddenly smiled and pointed twice at him through the air. "You little rascal, your abacus is clacking away. It's a good idea, but unfortunately, you and I are not destined to be master and disciple. Heaven has ordained it; it cannot be forced."
"I was presumptuous!" Without the slightest awkwardness, Chen Wei promptly cupped his hands and begged forgiveness.
He had only been taking a chance. If it worked, he would profit; if it did not, he would lose nothing. Since this path was blocked, he could simply find another. There was no need to batter his head against it.
Having begged forgiveness.
Chen Wei bowed and stepped back, preparing to take his leave.
He had barely retreated half a step when Taishang Laojun flicked his fly-whisk. A jade slip shimmering