A large, apricot-yellow banner flew from the side of the carriage, emblazoned with a massive, embroidered "Lin" that was especially conspicuous in the twilight.
Just as the carriage reached the entrance to the Lin Mansion, the vermilion gates, which had been inexplicably shut, swung open with a great RUMBLE.
Patriarch Lin, Lin Weiyuan, was dressed in a dark blue brocade robe with a jade belt cinched at his waist. He led a retinue of Lin Family Elders and elite disciples, striding quickly out from the main gate. They all came to a halt in an orderly line at the foot of the stone steps, their expressions solemn.
Passersby on the street were startled by the scene. They all stopped in their tracks, moving to the side of the road and craning their necks to get a better look.
All eyes focused on the approaching carriage, their minds filled with wonder.
