Cloud Province, as recorded in ancient chronicles.
Cloud Province thrived on commerce, with merchants gathering in droves and its fame spreading far and wide.
Along the streets were candy sellers, stalls displaying chess manuals, musical instrument vendors, street performers... and more.
A dazzling array filled the eye, too numerous to list.
It left people dazzled, with more than their eyes could take in.
Situated in the north wind, the bustle of its markets and the pedestrians on its streets mostly had a rugged air.
Li Ping'an walked among them, taking in the liveliness and prosperity.
Fresh songs and charming laughter filled the willow lanes and flower-lined streets; pipes were played and strings tuned in teahouses and wine shops.
And because it lay along the coast, goods came and went without end.
The sights changed with the four seasons, and the pleasures were endless.
"Shall we get something to eat?"
Zhou Youcai gazed at the food all around them, the dazzling assortment of snacks, and could not help wiping the drool from the corner of his mouth.
Honey cakes, stuffed lotus roots, fresh seasonal fruit, candied fruit, fresh fish, pork, lamb, and trotters...
"But we're out of money," Wen Tao said.
"Bravo!!"
Not far away, someone clapped and cheered.
It was a troupe of street performers.
An idea stirred in Li Ping'an's mind. "I do have a way."
"Come take a look! Ladies and gentlemen, we were traveling merchants who came to your fine town.
"Unfortunately, we lost all our capital, so we've taken the liberty of displaying our humble skills here and performing for you.
"If you have money, please spare some coins; if not, please lend us your presence.
"Our thanks to you all in advance!"
His booming voice seemed to resound through the clouds.
"Another troupe of