Huo Ling's pageantry had grown ever grander.
But that was only proper. For a ruler, it was like constructing immense, magnificent palaces—without splendor, there was no way to lend weight to one's authority.
Only when the pomp was in place would everyone gain a deeper understanding of the ruler's authority.
Such grand court assemblies held by Huo Ling generally lasted several days. During Huo Ling's tenure as Pope, assemblies on this scale had been held only a handful of times.
Generally speaking, major matters were discussed in small meetings, minor matters in large meetings, and especially important matters were not discussed in meetings at all.
At gatherings of this scale, nothing could usually get done. They existed solely to strengthen rule.
Finally, beneath the expectant gazes of the multitude—
A ripple of spatial fluctuation arose from the golden throne at the front of the grand hall, and Pope Huo Ling arrived within the hall.
Huo Ling took his seat upon the throne and looked down upon everyone below.
"Greetings, Your Holiness!"
Everyone, including the Saints, raised their voices like a mountain-shaking tide as they bowed in salute.
Just as when the Saints had entered this grand hall, the manner in which they paid respects to Pope Huo Ling was different from that of the others.
The Saints and the twelve Cardinal Archbishops needed only bow slightly, while the Legendary-ranked figures bent much farther.
The Sanctuary-ranked figures bowed at nearly ninety degrees. As for the Gold-ranked figures, they had it even worse—their lowered heads nearly touched the ground.
Only after everyone had paid their respects did Huo Ling slowly say, "Rise."
"Thank you, Your Holiness!"
Next, the Church's high-ranking officials began reporting on their work one after another. These various long-winded work reports formed the main body of this grand court