Xilan gazed at the altar before him, leading the people as they knelt and sat facing the three steles inscribed with Holy Scripture.
Outside the church, as the crow of a rooster arose, Daniel rang the church bells, their melodious and solemn toll echoing throughout the New Rule Garden.
Everyone, as if by an unspoken agreement, bowed their heads and placed their palms together, one after another, closing their eyes and praying in unison with Xilan.
"God, do not grant me splendor; instead, clothe me in sackcloth and bestow upon me thorns."
Xilan prayed aloud, while behind him, an innumerable throng of Preachers chanted the same prayer.
"Praise You, Lord, thank You for praising You, for You are our God, and Your kingdom will eventually come, bringing us endless peace and joy.
One day, You will remove my sackcloth, take away the thorns, and henceforth, the dry well will turn into a springing fountain, even in Leprosy Valley happiness will come overnight."
