Chapter 277 New Year's Grand Ceremony, Elder's Heart

The Priest's praise sounded like the first thunder of winter, emanating powerfully to reach the earth, penetrating directly into the ears of the prostrate masses. In an instant, there was silence all around. The Temple Plaza in front of the Great Temple suddenly fell quiet, save for the deep, short breaths and the crackling of the Sacred Fire.

The elder, expressionless, rose from the stone chair in front of the Temple and walked toward the edge of the Great Temple's pyramid.

He was clad in a black Ceremonial Dress robe, which hid his gaunt figure; on his head, he wore an ancient, elongated Feather Crown, covering his completely white hair. In his right hand, he still held the Scepter of the Chief Minister, his companion for over fifty years.