Who would’ve guessed? Guo Xi, the famed Soaring Golden Roc, was actually a mole for the empire. A deep-cover agent, planted so long ago he’d nearly reached the end of the rebel campaign without anyone suspecting a thing.0

Clearly, the Ministry of Martial Arts had never planned to reveal him until Li Yuan became too much of a threat. Then, they played their hidden card.0

And Guo Xi played his part flawlessly. With the bait of the Human Emperor’s secret, and the trust earned through his daughter, he’d lured Li Yuan out of the city and into a trap.0

Now, Guo Xi quickly stepped aside, keeping his distance. His eyes avoided Li Yuan’s as he murmured, “Qin’er knows nothing of this. I joined the Ministry of Martial Arts before she was even born…”0

But Li Yuan didn’t spare him a glance because he’d suspected something all along.0

And if this was the trap…perhaps it was the very fish he’d been trying to catch.0

Then a scholar stepped out from behind the Lord of Arms.0

“Li Yuan is of royal blood,” he said coldly. “If you truly have ties to him, you should not aid our enemies.”0

But before he could finish, the Lord of Arms raised a hand to silence him. He let out a long sigh.0

“I’ve been alone for far too long,” he...0