Jiang Chen’s answer was very much by the books. He displayed neither swagger nor timidity, which the voice found rather remarkable.

“Strange, strange! You are so young, yet you carry the poise of a true master. This characteristic was rare even in the ancient greats. Is this the heavenly ordainment that Great Divine Veluriyam spoke of?” The voice sounded thoroughly curious. “You were busy in the outside world. What for, may I ask?”

“Internally, a demonic menace. Externally, offworld invaders. These two matters are more than enough for me to tire myself over.”

“Oh? Do elaborate.”

Jiang Chen knew that the Six...