(The title of the book has been corrected: it should be "Jiajing of the Ming Dynasty: A Chronicle of Suspense in Beijing")
Ming Dynasty, Jiajing, Kyoto.
Deep in the palace, candlelight flickered between the window lattice, Emperor Jiajing was sleeping and forgetting to eat in the alchemy room, concentrating on his dream of immortality.
During the day, Kyoto is a bustling place with busy traffic and bustling people. There are many shops and pedestrians, and it is very lively.
As night falls, the hustle and bustle of the day dissipates, and the city changes its face. The cold moonlight shines on the ancient streets and alleys, reflecting shadows of varying shades. Occasionally, the night wind blows by, blowing up a few fallen leaves and making a rustling sound, as if Kyoto is whispering unknown secrets.
In the dark corners, stray cats and dogs hurried past, trying to find a trace of warmth and food under the moonlight. The beggars huddle under the dilapidated eaves with dull eyes. They are the forgotten existence behind this bustling city.
In the Lingquan Temple on the outskirts of the city, the bells are ringing, the smoke is curling, and under the solemn and sacred appearance, the story is happening...