Nanking Palace, Xi'an ----- 2 hour jump ----- With the end of the official mourning for the dead emperor, and the symbolic extinguishing of the funeral pyre, the party had moved outdoors. The water demons had cleared the clouds that morning, leaving a perfect night sky above the capital. The attendees wandered the grounds in small packs as the meeting hall was prepared for the actual coronation by the priests that worshipped the demons as gods. ----- 1 hour jump ----- With the meeting hall cleared the head priest rang the bells that announced meetings. In the cold night air the clangs of brass echoed throughout the city, surely waking anyone in the capital. The guests orderly filed into the throne room, which had been cleared of the remains of the previous ceremony. The cushioned floor was soon covered in eager guests, crammed tightly into the space so tight everyone was forced to stand. A short flight of steps led to the platform where speakers would stand while addressing the emperor, which was now occupied by a single man garbed in the distinctive armor of the highest of generals. Behind the general hung a curtain which hid the grand throne which would soon belong to Ling. "Make way for his Majesty, Crown Prince Ling. Heir to the throne, and head of our military." Barked the general, forcing the already packed room to part a path for the future emperor. With a solemn slow pace, and a posture which belies one of great wisdom, Ling made his way to the platform and stood before the general. Upon his entry everyone, including the general, fell over each other as they bowed their heads to the floor. OT as close as they could get in the overcrowded mass of bodies. Silently Ling made a note to fire the man who made the guest list, but never let his annoyance show. "Rise General Iro, and look me in the eyes" Ling said in a voice that exuded raw power The general did as he was told and kissed the hand of the prince "Your Majesty. The people demand an emperor, to guide our kingdom into the future" "What right have you to speak for the citizens of Xi'an?" "I am the highest ranking of the humans your Majesty, and we have demanded the demons fulfil their contract and rule us." "Who is it they demand be their Emperor? Proclaim forth the name, so all may hear." "My lord, your Majesty. The people demand you, Crown Prince Ling, the champion of the people, the demons of the golden heart. We humbly demand you be our emperor, and protect us and care for us as your children" "I answer the call of the Xianese people, and bow to their demand." With this Ling bowed his head to the general, who bowed in return "You have the blessing of your subjects" the general said as a human aid brought forth a box. The rectangular box was ornately carved of solid gold, with patterns of scenes that seemed to depict battles. Ruby's and gems studded the box, aided the general's grip as he took it. "Your Majesty, please take this gift as a symbol of our unquestioning loyalty and love for you." Ling opened the box and from its depths removed a heavy golden medallion, surrounded by beads of Jade. On its face was a crest of the Kingdom, painted with silver. In à single motion Ling placed the necklace around his neck, where all could see it. Falling to the floor in a steep bow the general cried "Behold! His Imperial Majesty Emperor Ling!" The crowd shouted in unison "You honor us! We are unworthy!"