C74 (1)

The bell's chime echoed, followed by the grating, muffled sound of movement as the grand and imposing palace gates were gradually pushed open.

Two eunuchs scurried out, one cradling a brown silk box of exquisite craftsmanship. Upon reaching the gates, they halted, opened the box, and extracted a golden scroll.

"Hear the imperial edict!"

The eunuch cleared his throat and called out sharply