The weather was cold, and the world was not at peace, but New Year's celebrations had to go on.
Central Capital City had just experienced a heavy snowfall; the roads were wet and slippery, yet the streets bustled with activity.
Vendors crammed among the never-ending stream of people, restraining their cries.
Children on the street were just about to light firecrackers when their elders stopped them and dragged them away.
The Emperor had passed away, and with the absence of festivities, the puppet shows and lion dances that were common during the New Year had vanished, replaced by silent crowds moving like a flowing painting, casting shadow after shadow beneath the prosperity of Central Capital.
If one were to flip through the history books, they would find this to be the most complex and pivotal year in the history of Jin, affecting the fate of the entire dynasty.