On the opening day of the Reverie, banners fluttered across the square before the Hall of Power in Pangaea Castle. Delegations from fifty Affiliated Nations of the World Government lined up in turn, each in distinctive attire and bearing an impressive air. Yet when the Hua Country delegation led by Chen Yu appeared at the square's entrance, the noisy gathering fell silent for an instant.
Chen Yu walked steadily at the head of the procession, dressed in black ceremonial robes with gold patterns and wearing a crown with seven rows of pendants. To his left was Guo Jia in white, holding a feather fan; to his right was Guan Yu in green robes, a hand resting on his sword. Zhao Yun brought up the rear in white robes with his Qinghong sword, while a hundred Black Armor Guards marched in perfect unison, the Black Bird Flag snapping in the morning breeze. The presence they displayed was no less imposing than that of any long-established power.
"So that is Hua Country? It certainly lives up to its reputation..." King Cobra of Alabasta murmured in admiration from among the ranks, appreciation in his eyes.
"A mere usurper, yet he dares flaunt his power here!" King Falfur snorted beside him, his voice full of disdain.
All manner of gazes-curious, appraising, hostile, admiring-converged on the Hua Country delegation. Chen Yu seemed oblivious, Arceus's Power circulating naturally and dissolving all external pressure without a trace. His calm gaze swept across the square before settling on the enormous doors leading into the Hall of Power.
"Representatives of all nations, please enter the hall!"
At the Master of Ceremonies' drawn-out announcement, the national representatives entered the hall in order of seniority. When "Hua Country" was called, a distinct stir ran through the hall. Chen Yu adjusted his