(MC POV)
I looked around the Grand Courtyard that had once been empty now filled with rows upon rows of food stalls, merchant carts and game stalls. There was even a giant stage at the far end set up for the performances.
Since it was still a few more hours before the official start time, most of the staff are still busy with the final set ups for the event.
Such a grand event has never happened before.
Previously, all our New Year celebrations just involved the Sect Master giving a small talk on a small stage which I already think is a waste of time. The nearby Minor Sects would come and visit, bearing a few gifts which they will exchange with us.
Normally I would find a reason for myself to be excused from such trivialities.
In fact, had this year's been the same, I would have just fabricated a reason for my disciples and I to be absent. No need for them to be subjected to such unnecessary torture.