During the White Dew season, the rapidly growing reeds thrust out their flower spikes, their brown velvet bristles drenched with dewdrops, creating a damp expanse.
Outside, the ceaseless shouts and orders caused the water birds sheltering in the reeds to shiver and stretch their wings before flying out of the marsh opening.
On the vast stretch of water, fishing boats crisscrossed in layers upon layers, looking as if a fine layer of fish scales had grown over the surface.
Seventeen broad-bellied square boats longer than five zhang gathered their sails and docked in the desolate harbor, their hulls gently rocking.
Lian Jingye, supported by others, stepped onto the deck and looked up at the old man commanding the fleet from the mast.
"Old Song, have you called over everyone that can be spared?"
The dark, toothless old man jumped down from the mast, "Master Lian, just as you instructed, I've called them all over! Not a single one is missing!"
