The gate tower of Changshan County Town stood imposing and tall, its bluestone walls gleaming with a cold, hard light in the morning sun.
At the gate, the rumble of carts and horses was incessant, and the flow of people was like a weaving shuttle. The cries of street vendors and the grinding of axles on stone slabs intertwined into a bustling urban symphony.
A lavishly decorated, two-horse carriage slowly entered the city gate to the crisp clopping of hooves.
The carriage was crafted from red sandalwood, its curtains made of the finest Su embroidery. Gilded bells hung from its four corners, chiming melodiously as it moved, all of which spoke to the occupant's status as either wealthy or noble.
Inside, a maid in an aqua-blue dress, with a pretty and vivacious face, was excitedly lifting the side curtain. Her lively eyes curiously surveyed the county town's scenery, which was so different from that of the Prefecture City.
"Miss, we've arrived in Changshan."
