The restaurant was lively, with no shortage of cultivators among the customers.

“I heard that not long ago, the seven top ancient factions made a joint announcement. They’ve issued the imperial family an ultimatum!”

“They still want to force the emperor to abdicate and give up Mount Heavenbristle and Nine Tripod City?”

“That’s right. They say that since the Radiant Epoch is arriving early, and since both Nine Tripod City and Mount Heavenbristle are first-rate blessed grounds for cultivation, the seven top ancient factions are dead-set on obtaining them.”

…The conversation continued, and everyone had something to say.

It was then that an elegant middle-aged man in dark robes sneered. “All of you are wrong. How lofty are the seven top ancient factions? How could they possibly wage war against the Great Xia’s imperial family over Mount Heavenbristle alone?”

His words drew numerous others’ attention.

One said lightly, “Fellow Daoist, if they’re not out to occupy Mount Heavenbristle, dare I ask why the seven top ancient factions are pushing for the emperor’s abdication? And why they’ve demanded both the mountain and Nine Tripod City?”

All eyes were upon...