In the square outside the yamen of the Jincheng Viceroy, the sweet osmanthus blossoms were heavy with fragrance. The citizens thronged the bluestone-paved square, stretching their necks to gaze at the temporarily erected incense table. The table was draped in bright yellow silk, and flanked by eight officials of the Ministry of Rites in scarlet robes, the golden axes and halberds in their hands gleaming brightly in the autumn sun.
"The Imperial Edict has arrived—"
At the sonorous shout of Vice Minister Liu of the Ministry of Rites, the entire square fell instantly silent. Vice Minister Liu slowly unfurled a scroll of bright yellow silk, patterned with cloud designs and soaring dragons, stamped with the vibrant red imperial jade seal. Clearing his throat, he read out in a booming voice:
Chapter 170