Long ago, the Jade Emperor decided it was time to name the years. He called every animal in the kingdom and announced a race: the first twelve to cross the great river would win a place in the heavens, one year for each.

The rat was small but clever. It hopped onto the ox's back and leaped ashore just before the finish, becoming first. The ox, steady and strong, took second. The tiger thundered through the currents for third, and the rabbit hopped from stone to stone for fourth. The dragon flew, yet stopped to bring rain to a thirsty village, so it came fifth. The snake slipped past the horse's hooves at the last moment. The goat, monkey, and rooster worked together to build a raft. The dog splashed and played too long, and the pig, who had stopped for a nap, trotted in last — but it still made the circle complete.

That is how the twelve guardians were chosen. Not by size or strength alone, but by wit, loyalty, teamwork, and even a little stubbornness.

Look at the twelve bronze figures before you — each one armored like a celestial soldier, each one carrying the temper of its year. Find your animal among them. The one you were born under is not just a symbol. It is the guardian the river race chose for you.