The doors of the Temple of Alliances opened with a barely audible whisper. There were no bells, no choirs. Just the warm dawn wind and the voice of the Great Guardian:
"Designated Consort Suwei of House Jinhai... today you will carve your name among the chosen ones."
The hall was immense. In its center, an altar of white stone surrounded by five pillars—one for each sacred house of the empire. The torches lit themselves as Suwei passed, as if recognizing his presence.
He wore an ivory-colored tunic, embroidered with golden threads in the shape of wings. He walked barefoot over moon flower petals, placed that early morning by the Virgins of Memory. With each step, Suwei felt the echo of those who had preceded him. Voices, glances, oaths.
The Guardian placed before him a scroll covered with seals.
"Here are the names of the consorts who walked before you. Each one left their mark... and their destiny."
Suwei took the sacred brush. His hand trembled.
"Breathe," said a voice.
