Toot—!
It was 3:45 AM, and a deep horn sounded from the corner tower of the Forbidden City.
The Vermilion Bird Gate opened with a thunderous roar amidst the sounds of gears and winches.
Five hundred Xuanjia Jinwu Guards, holding vermilion lacquered plaques with bronze nails inscribed with "Silence" and "Avoid," lined both sides of the imperial path; behind them were Tai Chang Temple officials holding the nine-draped mysterious banners.
The Sui Lun True Monarch Divine Statue, over twelve feet tall, dwarfed the surrounding crowd. It was carried on a Mystic Iron Carriage by three hundred and twenty powerful warriors from the military, moving forward slowly.
This was the National Sacrifice Hall. The ritual music was solemn, and all the court officials, regardless of rank, were present. However, no one dared to make a noise, only following the procession in silence.
As the clock struck 7 a.m., the Jingyang Bell sounded within the Imperial Palace.
