An ancient legend tells that one day the Jade Emperor wanted all animals to gather together to elect a council of 12 animals to watch over the human world. He decided that there will be a registration and the twelve arriving soonest will become The Twelve Guardians. They are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. The phoenix shall be their leader and guide them on the right path.