It was already the end of February. The spirit fields on both sides of Chidao were lush and verdant, brimming with life.
The diligent spirit plant farmers had begun working in the fields early in the morning, clearing weeds and pests.
Though farming was arduous, the flourishing spirit rice gave them hope for a bountiful harvest this year. Everyone worked especially hard, their weathered faces filled with longing for the future.
They only hoped the spirit fields would suffer no more disasters, and that all the bandits would die out!
Some farmers also carried loads of firewood piled high as small mountains, hurrying toward Yunyang City.
In the distance came the sound of a shepherd boy's bamboo flute.
Beside the field ridges, several children carrying baskets were picking Fish Scale Grass.
Fish Scale Grass that sprouted in early spring was of the finest quality, and now was the best time to harvest it.
A bundle of dried Fish Scale Grass could be traded from a traveling merchant for a piece of sweet Rice Candy.
For these farmers' children, it was undoubtedly the best snack.
The Fish Scale Grass here was quickly picked clean.
One older and one younger little girl held hands and skipped onto Chidao, intending to continue picking on the other side.
Just then, a thunderous rumble swept from far to near, reaching everyone's ears.
Several hundred paces away on Chidao, a great mass of mist and dust churned as it came rolling toward them.
It was as fast as an arrow loosed from the bow!
The two girls were crossing Chidao. When the older girl turned and saw the sight, her face went pale with fright.
She yanked her companion, wanting to pull her off Chidao.
But the other girl was caught off guard, stumbled, and fell