The wind blew in from the southwest, growing stronger and making this summer night feel unexpectedly chilly. Clouds gathered in layers, piling ever thicker, and the darkness deepened. It was nothing like the radiant, hazy, gray-toned nights of a city in summer. “Riding the wave of reform and opening up, carrying the spirit of the common people striving forward, China surged ahead at the turn of the century, standing tall atop the world and gradually becoming one of its poles. Yet, as with the dynasties of China throughout history...
