Two days later,
Jingguan City also fell under rain.
Since last night, a fierce wind rose, accompanied by ominous thunder, crackling and rumbling. At midnight, large raindrops rattled against the windows, like rain pattering on banana leaves.
In the past, this city, festive and flamboyant as a brocade, known as the Heavenly City, appeared especially deserted today, exuding an air of desolation.
In Southern City, right along the main road facing the city gate, the flying eaves and upturned corners of street-side teahouses and taverns were packed with people all morning.
Yet there was no buzz of conversation. At each table, whether scholars or worldly society members with swords at their sides, or pairs exchanging glances with barely moving lips, glancing out the window from time to time, or bowing their heads to sip their tea or wine.
