"How much longer?"
Liu Sheng asked in a deep voice.
"About a century, perhaps even less."
The National Preceptor replied with a smile.
"Does Your Majesty know?"
"Probably has some inkling, but I haven't spoken of it. You're the first."
He wanted to speak several times, but each time the words stopped at his lips.
Ultimately, he decided to let it go.
The understanding between a master and his disciple was unspoken.
"A century... only a century?"
Liu Sheng muttered, his expression growing sorrowful.
"Why didn't you say earlier?"
"Say it earlier? How would you have dealt with it then?"
"You... you've devoted your entire life to the Ritual Department, it means more to you than your own life."
"Forget it!"
"I'm leaving, no need to see me off!"
With that, the National Preceptor headed outside, waving hand as a farewell gesture.
A solemn goodbye to an old friend.
Liu Sheng watched him until he disappeared from view.
"I will guard Great Yu with them."
...
The next day!
