The Cold Autumn Palace

Upon learning of the death of Imperial Astronomer, Mr. Miao, the officials from the Ministry of Rites left in a hurry with unreadable expressions.

The chief eunuch motioned for Xu Liangshou to follow him into the room. He sat down and said with a dark expression, "Do you know what to do next?"

Xu Liangshou said respectfully, "Please give me some pointers, sir."

The chief eunuch tapped the table lightly and said, "We don't know how to read the stars. We will listen to you."

Xu Liangshou said after a brief moment of silence, "Sir, do you really want me to write it?"

The chief eunuch was already very impatient, and he shouted, "What are you waiting for? Get this done quickly!"

Xu Liangshou stopped his prevarication and went to the desk and wrote down eight words.

"The dark moon invades, unrest befalls the country!"