The grand Mourning Pavilion of the Imperial Capital stood bathed in the morning light and dark banners lined the palace walls.
A sea of cultivators, soldiers, royals, and civilians dressed in ceremonial dark robes filled the plaza.
The scent of burning incense lingered in the air, carried by the gentle breeze.
Gongs tolled in slow rhythm.
Zhao Tian stood at the front, his black ceremonial robe fluttering faintly in the wind.
His face was composed, but his eyes held a respectful gravity as he looked ahead at the altar where rows of names had been etched into crystal slabs, honoring the brave souls who had fallen protecting the seal of the Rui Clan.
Beside him Ji Shuang was standing.
Yan Zijin and Rui Yuying flanked her side, both standing silently.
Rui Lian stood beside Rui Yuying and in the far front, Rui Guzhi was standing, looking at the ceremony.
Rui Lian briefly glanced at Zhao Tian and sighed in her heart.
