The grand and towering city gates slowly opened like a primordial beast stretching its massive jaws for a morning feast.0

Passing through the gate passage, the view suddenly opened up, revealing the vast imperial city within the capital.0

In the square, two solemn and dignified rows of guards stood staring straight ahead. The morning sun gleamed off their sharp spears and light golden armor.0

None of the civil and military officials spoke during the procession. The civil officials held their scepters, and the military officers donned their armor, all silently moving forward.0

After crossing the square and ascending a long staircase, the foremost figure, Fan Shaolin, was the first to step into the main hall.0

Fan Shaolin, advanced in age, was slightly out of breath after walking for so long. Qi Zongbi, following behind him, reached out to support his back and said, "Senior Fan, are you alright?"0

Fan Shaolin waved his...0