The end of the year had finally arrived.
The common folk began stocking up for the New Year, carrying grain, chickens, and ducks from their homes as they prepared to pay taxes and tribute in the city.
If they did not pay, the city would not send anyone to maintain the village statues.
And once the statues grew old and lost their power, the village would lose its protection.
What reassured Ghost was that the villagers here were reasonably well-fed and clothed.
Though there were plenty of family quarrels, at least they did not have to worry about freezing or starving to death.
That was probably because there were no major natural disasters, coupled with effective population control.
It followed the villagers into the city to take a look.
Sunlight streamed through the ancient city walls and spilled into a city with a long history.
It was a bright, sunny day.
At the center of the city stood a grand sacrificial square.
A massive altar stood in the middle of the square.
Complex patterns were carved into the altar, giving it a solemn and dignified appearance.
Yet the content of those patterns was eerie and terrifying.
Centipedes, octopuses...
Three bizarre Evil Objects had become symbols of prayer here.
When the Ghost Robot arrived at the square, he saw towering ancient trees all around, their branches and leaves lush and flourishing, as if telling the ancient legends of this city.
Clearly, the history of this world stretched back a very long time.
The city residents, dressed in festive finery, gathered in the square one after another, ready to take part in the annual sacrificial ceremony.
Their faces were filled with piety and anticipation. They held all kinds of offerings in their hands: fresh fruit, carefully made pastries, and handwoven flower