In the twenty-sixth year of Guangxu's reign, in late summer on the Zhili Plain, the hot wind swept the sand and dust towards an escort team winding along the official road. The escort car at the beginning was unique. The body was made of fine iron, with rivets arranged like scales. Two bronze steam pipes protruded from the shaft, making a rhythmic whine as the wheels rolled. The car curtain was raised, and Dai Jiuyuan leaned out half of his body. His bronze face was mostly covered by goggles, and the sweat on his forehead slid down his beard.
