The Jin Hall rose from the ground, the stairs alone reaching a height of over twenty zhangs, all paved with the incomparably sturdy Black Jadestone. There were five platforms, consisting of 449 steps in total. This symbolized that the one who resided above the steps was the supreme ruler!2

The command reverberated throughout the vast Jin Royal Palace.0

"Your Highness, His Majesty has summoned you," the imperial eunuch urged, "Aren't you going to enter the hall?"0

"As you command," the heavily armored man slowly rose to his feet.0

For most people, standing again after three days of kneeling in worship in the depths of winter without sleep, food or water was a challenge. But as one of the top twelve martial artists in the Land Rankings, the man in black armor was as composed as ever as he removed his sword.2

By the laws of the Great Jin Empire, unless granted a royal decree, officials and princes were required to enter the palace dressed in brocade attire. Only the East King and the North King were permitted to enter in armor, but weapons were forbidden within the hall. They had to disarm themselves before stepping foot into the Jin Hall.0

Throughout the ages, the east king and north king had been the pillars of the Great Jin Empire, serving as important ministers for the royal family and shouldering the heavy responsibility of supporting the empire.0

Step by step, the man in black...0