Through the massive red doors, the Imperial Guards marched in first, their golden armor clanking in perfect unison. Between them walked the Emperor, draped in blindingly bright yellow silk embroidered with nine majestic dragons. Flanking him were the high eunuchs, followed closely by the Empress in her elaborate phoenix crown. Behind them trailed a vibrant sea of royal princes and princesses, their robes a dazzling blur of ruby reds, sapphire blues, and emerald greens.
The Emperor walked slowly up the jade steps to the highest dais. He turned, looking down at the hundreds of officials kneeling before him.
"Rise," the Emperor commanded, his voice echoing with absolute authority.
"Greetings to Your Majesty! May the heavens bless Your Majesty with eternal longevity!" the subjects chanted in unison as they stood up.
Even in this synchronized greeting, the deep cultural divide between the pen and the sword was painfully obvious.
