Black Mountain, Celestial Thunder Cliff.
In the dead of winter, the verdant Bamboo Sea covering the mountain range was blanketed in a thick layer of snow. From time to time, the sharp CRACK of a bamboo stalk snapping under the weight echoed through the hills.
After several consecutive drafts of disciples were sent to the Central Province, the major Spirit Veins of Black Mountain had lost their usual liveliness.
Even the Miscellaneous Affairs Hall, normally the busiest place, had become deserted.
"Why is it so cold this year?"
"Didn't you hear the Lord Steward? The path of a Meridian Cold Tide from the northern ice fields is aimed right at a gap in Black Mountain. A lot of the Spirit Fields have suffered from the frost."
Two servant disciples were using long poles to knock snow off the bamboo. Manpower was scarce; they were the only two assigned to work in this vast Bamboo Sea.
