The sweltering sun of late summer was so intense that it was hard to keep one's eyes open.
Ten or so merchant ships flying the "Yang" banner had arrived at the bustling docks of Jizhou.
No sooner had the ships docked than a large group of porters who had been waiting eagerly swarmed aboard, quickly removing the tarpaulins that had been shielding the grain from the rain, revealing the mountainous piles of sacks beneath.
Suddenly, the distinct fresh scent of the new season's grain wafted through the docks, drawing curious glances at the "Yang" flags on the ships, as many wondered which grain dealer was making such a grand gesture by shipping a dozen shiploads of new grain all at once.
