At the bottom of the mountain, a small stage had been set up, elevated slightly higher than the ground so that it could tower over the assembled crowd. Sitting on top of it was the Sect Master of the Blue Rose Sect. He wore a mask that was half silver and half gold, accompanied by a robe of white and gold hues. His imposing aura was so powerful that it felt as if he could topple the entire kingdom instantly. The crowd felt a strong, oppressive force emanating from him.
Seated below him were the Elders of the Sect. There were six chairs, one still empty. The fifth chair was occupied by the Emperor of Xiang Kingdom, Emperor Xiang He. He sat among the Elders not because of his crown, but because he was the only direct disciple of the Sect Master.
