On New Year's Eve, pedestrians were still a rare sight in the streets and alleys of the Yong Capital. The shadow of the plague would not fade from people's hearts anytime soon. Firecrackers crackled everywhere-in fact, far more were being set off this year than in previous years. The common people pinned their hopes on the new year sweeping away their misfortunes, using firecrackers to drive out the terrifying plague.
Hu Xiaotian stood quietly outside the Great Buddha Temple in the Yong Capital. In previous years, the entrance would have been thronged with people. Half the city's residents would come here to hear the first bell of the new year and compete to offer the first stick of incense. Now, however, the temple entrance stood deserted. Its gates were wide open, but no one came.
Hu Xiaotian walked slowly toward the gates. Upon reaching them, he turned around and saw that Ji Feihua had appeared behind him without his noticing. He couldn't help smiling. "Right on time!" He had come because Ji Feihua had invited him here to offer incense.
Ji Feihua smiled faintly, came to his side, and said softly, "I never imagined the Great Buddha Temple would be this quiet."
"The epidemic has everyone on edge," Hu Xiaotian said. "The common people won't dare venture out casually for some time."
Ji Feihua seemed to have little interest in the matter and walked into the Great Buddha Temple.
The monk on duty had not expected worshippers to come tonight either. He gave them a surprised glance, then lowered his head again and resumed his droning chants.
The bells welcoming the new year rang out just then. Hu Xiaotian and Ji Feihua went to offer incense before the Hall of Great Strength. Hu Xiaotian had intended to let Ji Feihua