The Grand Emperor’s voice shook everything like claps of thunder. Hearts and souls trembled as if vibrating in unison with the voice. That voice surpassed all dharmic decrees. It surpassed all divine abilities. And it surpassed all other wills.2

The voice of the Grand Emperor represented the legacy of humanity, the culture and civilization of the human species, and the will of humankind. It was domineering and shocking.1

The imperial capital trembled as wild winds swept back and forth. Buildings rocked, and the hearts of the people were filled with alarm. It reached the Imperial University, as the stentorian voice pierced through space. All students felt reverence well up within them, and without even thinking about it, turned and bowed in the direction of the Grand Emperor’s statue.3

They offered greetings to the only Grand Emperor who remained in Revered Ancient after Ancient Emperor Dark Serenity left. They offered greetings to the one who had protected humankind down to this moment. It didn’t matter that he had died in battle and left behind only a clone. He was still Grand Emperor Swordsage, and he still fought...9