In the height of summer, the rains were particularly heavy, having persistently poured for three days in White Stone City, showing no sign of letting up.
Muddy puddles were everywhere along the murky and severely potholed roads, making it virtually impossible for ordinary people to tread on.
Xu Mu, donned in a blue Taoist robe, shook off the mud on his feet before stepping onto the solid green slate. Holding an oil-papered umbrella, he made his way across the entrance of the marketplace.
As he looked around, a puzzled expression crossed his face.
"Why does it seem like there are fewer people than usual?"
Even on days of continuous heavy rain in the past, such a situation had never occurred.
Could it be that all the major families had already started to leave?
Had he not received any news?
Puzzled, Xu Mu quickened his steps towards the planned teahouse.
"Friend Xu! Over here!"
Before Xu Mu arrived, Su Qing, donned in green, stood at the teahouse entrance, beckoning him.
