Black Tortoise Hall was a safe haven built by the previous dynasty. Located behind the Palace City, thirty zhang beneath the surface, it was the emperor's personal shelter, where he could await relief forces from across the realm if the Capital City came under attack.
The curfew drums sounded through the city. Countless Imperial Guards held a strict defensive perimeter outside the Imperial City, while Immortal Officials and Scarlet Qilin Guards patrolled throughout the city, guarding against any unforeseen developments.
Under Cao Fo'er's protection, Zhao Xiao hurried into the underground passage, asking along the way:
"Has Zen Master Wuxin been informed?"
"We've already sent an urgent dispatch, but Zen Master Wuxin is currently in Liangzhou and won't receive it anytime soon. Mu Yunling, Li Chimo, and the others, however, should be able to sense the disturbance in the Capital City..."
"They're no match for Wei Wuyi. Only with Zen Master Wuxin back here working alongside Daoist Lu can we be confident of subduing Wei Wuyi without injury..."
A large entourage followed behind. Ji Shiqing, Tie Fengzhang, Huangfu Qi, and the other longtime subordinates guarded his flanks, while Fan Li and the others urgently discussed countermeasures.
Just as they reached the hall doors, another commotion came from behind. Everyone turned to see Xu Tong hurrying over with Crown Prince Zhao De.
Zhao De wore a bright red robe, with a folding fan tucked into his waistband and a slightly tipsy look on his face. In all likelihood, he had just been dragged out of a pool of wine and forest of flesh. Upon seeing them, he gave a sheepish smile.
"Please calm your anger, Imperial Father. Wei Wuyi's defection could be a good thing. With him voluntarily stepping aside, wouldn't Brother Xie become Great Qian's foremost martial artist..."
Since Wei