Geng Jing was summoned into the palace in haste and presented himself in the imperial study.

When he saw that Pan Yucheng was there too, he checked for an instant.

Then he saw how heavy the Xuan Emperor's face was, and something gave a lurch in his chest.

"Your subject presents himself to Your Majesty."

The Xuan Emperor said, "Pan Yucheng, tell it again."

"Your subject obeys the command."

Pan Yucheng went over the business of the Moon-Shadow Army again.

Geng Jing heard him out, and the color went out of his face.

The Moon-Shadow Army had dropped out of sight more than ten years ago and the files were sealed. How had they surfaced now?

No wonder His Majesty looked the way he did.

"Geng Jing, did you hear that clearly?"

"Your subject heard it clearly."

The Xuan Emperor said coldly, "From this moment the Inspectorate has one task and no other. Hunt down the Moon-Shadow Army whatever it costs... find one, kill one."

Geng Jing felt a jolt go through him. "Your subject obeys the command."

The Xuan Emperor was silent for a long while, and then spoke again. "If you find that anyone has ties to the Moon-Shadow Army, below the third rank this emperor grants you the right to execute first and report afterward... of the third rank and above, hold them all and wait for this emperor's word."

"This emperor will issue an edict setting the Dragon Guard, the garrison and the imperial guards to assist the Inspectorate."

Geng Jing said quickly, "Your subject receives the command."

"Both of you withdraw. In the business of the Moon-Shadow Army, be strict and be quick."

Geng Jing and Pan Yucheng received the command.

"Your subject takes his leave."

As he was leaving, Pan Yucheng threw Eunuch Quan a look.

Eunuch Quan thought about it, then looked at the Xuan Emperor. "Your Majesty, may this old servant step outside a moment?"

"Go."

Eunuch Quan came out, and Pan Yucheng was waiting for him.

Pan Yucheng said, "Eunuch Quan, Ning Chen asked me to tell you to strengthen the…