The current Emperor was vigorous and robust. The sheer majesty in his voice exuded a pressure so intense that even Zheng Xiu, who had already stepped onto the Painter's Path, felt its vague but indescribable weight.
"The Night Lord has vanished."
"But in truth, We have never truly trusted him."
"Twenty years ago, the Northern Barbarians invaded again. He rendered outstanding service during that long war. We thought peace had come to the realm, but then the world was suddenly plagued by all sorts of strange and supernatural occurrences. And it was he, once again, who stepped forward to share Our burdens."
"You may ask, why did We use him if We did not trust him? And why grant him great authority, independent of the Six Ministries?"
"Heh, it's quite simple. We do not need to trust those We employ. If they are useful, then they are used."
